Last Updated on December 19, 2023
It’s a tale as old as time: the search for the perfect cup of coffee. But just when you thought you’d tried every trick in the book, a new twist comes along.
Introducing the latest craze that’s sweeping the coffee-loving nation: olive oil in coffee. Sounds a bit weird, right? Well, buckle up, my caffeinated friend, because we’re diving into this peculiar pairing and uncovering the reasons behind the hype.
How Did This Trend Start, Anyway?
As bizarre as it may sound, the olive oil in coffee trend can be traced back to none other than the coffee giant, Starbucks. They’re known for their innovative and sometimes unexpected concoctions, and this time, they’ve truly outdone themselves.
So, what’s the story behind this peculiar pairing?
In February 2023, Starbucks introduced its Oleato beverages in Italy, the birthplace of espresso. With a blend of Starbucks arabica coffee and premium Partanna extra virgin olive oil, the company set out to create an entirely new experience for coffee enthusiasts. It was a hit.
Starbucks began expanding the Oleato line to select stores in Seattle, Los Angeles, Chicago and New York. Later in the year, they introduced the beverages to locations in Japan, the Middle East, and the U.K.
The Oleato lineup includes drinks such as the Oleato Caffè Latte, Oleato Iced Shaken Espresso and Oleato Golden Foam Cold Brew, each featuring the unique combination of Starbucks Blonde Espresso Roast, creamy oat milk, and Partanna extra virgin olive oil.
Starbucks founder Howard Schultz expressed his enthusiasm for the innovative beverages, stating, “In over 40 years, I can’t remember a moment in time where I’ve been more excited, more enthused—that demonstrates the pride, the quality, the passion, the heritage and the craft of what Starbucks can do.”
We probably shouldn’t be surprised that the trend has taken off, given the global reach and influence of Starbucks.
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Benefits of Olive Oil in Coffee
As strange as it may seem, adding olive oil to your coffee might just offer some surprising benefits:
- Health Boost: Olive oil is packed with healthy fats, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties. Why not add a splash of goodness to your morning ritual?
- Smooth Operator: If you’re tired of bitter coffee, olive oil can help. Its natural fats can smooth out your brew, leaving you with a richer, creamier taste.
- Dairy-Free Delight: For those avoiding dairy, olive oil offers a vegan-friendly alternative to milk or cream that still adds a velvety texture to your cuppa joe.
The Perfect Olive Oil Coffee Pairing
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Now that you’re on board with this unlikely duo, let’s talk about how to make the magic happen:
- Choose Your Oil Wisely: Just like with coffee beans, not all olive oils are created equal. Reach for a high-quality, extra-virgin olive oil for the best results.
- Less Is More: Start with a small amount (about half a teaspoon) and adjust according to your taste. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it out!
- Give It a Whirl: Make sure you blend or stir your coffee and olive oil well, ensuring a silky-smooth texture and even distribution of flavor.
Olive Oil Coffee Recipes to Try
Feeling adventurous? Here are a couple of coffee recipes featuring our new favorite ingredient:
- Olive Oil Coffee Latte: Combine your favorite espresso, steamed milk (or milk alternative), and a drizzle of olive oil for a delightful twist on a classic.
- Olive Oil Iced Coffee: Shake up your iced coffee game with a splash of olive oil, cold brew, and a sweetener of choice, served over ice.
Give It a Shot!
So there you have it, the quirky yet delightful world of olive oil in coffee. We’re not saying it’s for everyone, but why not give it a try? You might just discover a new way to level up your morning coffee ritual.
And hey, if it’s not your cup of tea (or coffee, rather), at least you’ll have a fun story to share at your next brunch gathering. Cheers to experimenting with new flavors and finding joy in the unexpected!
