The Art of Cafezinho: Small Coffee, Big Brazilian Tradition

As a coffee lover, you might know that Brazil is responsible for a third of the world’s coffee production. However, unlike Italy or America, we don’t hear much about how coffee is consumed in Brazil, despite being the world’s largest producer and exporter of coffee beans. So, let’s explore the importance of coffee in Brazilian culture and how it is woven into their daily routines.

 

Brazil’s Premium Arabica Coffee

 

Brazil is celebrated for its high-quality Arabica beans. These beans are, sweet, medium to full bodied, and mildly acidic, making them a favorite worldwide. Grown primarily in the southeastern regions where the climate and elevation are perfect for coffee cultivation, these beans not only bolster the Brazilian economy but are also a major export. Their unique characteristics make them ideal for both espresso blends and single-origin coffees, catering to diverse taste preferences.

 

How Brazilians Drink Their Coffee

 

Coffee is a fundamental part of Brazilian culture and identity, with over 98% of households enjoying it daily. The traditional method of preparing coffee in Brazil starts with boiling water—a practice that defies the commonly accepted brewing advice to never exceed 90 degrees Centigrade. Once the water has reached boiling point, the coffee grounds are added and stirred vigorously. To complement this robust brewing method, a generous amount of sugar is often mixed in. This preference for sweet coffee is primarily due to the lower altitudes at which Brazilian coffee beans are grown, which naturally imparts a certain bitterness to the beans. Consequently, adding sugar has become a popular and effective way of balancing flavors, making coffee more pleasant and enjoyable to consume daily.

 

 

Ordering Coffee in Brazil

 

Now, let’s find out what you can expect to get when you order a cup of coffee in Brazil. Brazilians value simplicity in their coffee preparations, steering clear of the more elaborate coffee variants popular in other countries (like a ‘flat white’ in Australia, or ‘iced lattes’ in America). Breakfast itself is referred to as café da manhã in Portuguese, which translates directly to ‘morning coffee’ in English, highlighting the drink’s importance from the start of the day. This coffee culture is so integral to Brazilian life that cafezinho is often served for free at restaurants and gas stations, allowing you to grab a quick cafezinho while paying for your gas.

 

 

Popular Types of Coffee:

 

• Cafezinho vs. Espresso: Although both are served in small portions, “cafezinho” and espresso are prepared differently, so be sure to specify your preference. Cafezinho, which means “small coffee”, is a traditional Brazilian coffee, strong and sweet, usually served in tiny cups. It is prepared by boiling water with finely ground coffee and sugar, giving it a unique, local taste. By contrast, the world-famous espresso is prepared by passing hot water through finely ground coffee beans, producing a concentrated, full-bodied coffee with no added sugar.

 

• Milky Coffee: If you like your coffee with milk, you can order a ‘média’ or a ‘café com leite’. These are interchangeable terms that vary from establishment to establishment. You can also try a ‘pingado’, which is an espresso shot with a drop of steamed milk on top. Interestingly (or shockingly?), it’s quite common for small children in Brazil to drink milky coffee for breakfast.

 

• Cappuccino: Expect to find traditional cappuccinos in most places, but don’t be surprised if your cappuccino comes with chocolate, especially in big cities.

 

Final Thoughts

 

Brazilians’ deep affection for their cafezinhos, pingados, and café lactés highlights the integral role coffee plays in Brazil’s culture and economy. Whether enjoyed in bustling cafes, at home, or even at gas stations where cafezinho is often served for free, coffee is a cherished tradition that brings people together and fuels daily life in Brazil. While a trip to Brazil might not be in your immediate plans, you can still experience the rich flavors of Brazilian coffee with our ‘Brazil’ coffee. Its full-bodied French roast features a fruity, sweet, wine-like flavor with a captivating caramelized finish, offering a unique taste of Brazil from the comfort of your home.