Flat red coffee is a traditional Ukrainian coffee drink made with espresso, steamed pomegranate, and Orange juice.
Whether you’re a coffee lover or a newcomer to the world of coffee, the variety of coffee types can be overwhelming.
Each coffee type has its unique characteristics and flavour profile, making it an art in itself.
There are 30 or so varieties of espresso drinks, some of which are very popular around the world like Cappuccino, Latte, and Americano, while some are restricted to their origin countries, such as Cortado, Breve, and the “Flat Red”, which we will discuss in this article.
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What is Flat Red Coffee and Where Does it Come From?
Espresso is more commonly made with milk, creamers, and flavouring syrups to cut the harsh and concentrated flavours of espresso, which results in a smooth, creamy, and sweet drink.
However, in some parts of the world, espresso is also combined with fruit juices, such as Espresso Romano, which is made by adding a slice of lemon to espresso.
Likewise, there is “Flat Red Coffee” which is made by adding freshly squeezed Orange and Pomegranate juice to freshly prepared shots of espresso.
There is not much popularity for this beverage outside of Ukraine, however, in recent years, it has gained popularity in other European countries and the United States thanks to social media.
Vadym, the man behind this coffee, came up with the idea of this unique drink after Lexus a Japanese car brand approached him for collaborating with them to provide premium coffee service at the launch event of their new car.
How To Prepare Flat Red Coffee?
You will need a mix of Pomegranate and Orange juice to prepare this beverage, and it is essential that the fruits must be fresh and squeezed right before preparation.
Follow these steps;
- Prepare a double shot of espresso using your favourite coffee beans.
- Prepare a mixture of fresh Orange and Pomegranate juice and steam it to around 125 to 135 degrees. It is mainly served at this temperature so that you can easily drink it instantly.
- The espresso-to-juice ratio for flat red coffee is around 1:2. That means for a 55 to 60 ml double espresso shot you’ll need around 110 to 120 ml of juice.
- Combine the juice and Espresso shot in a clear glass tumbler and give it a gentle stir.
How To Make The Perfect Flat Red Coffee (tips and techniques)
Brewing a delicious cup of Red Flat Coffee requires some specific techniques and equipment to truly bring out the unique flavour profile of this speciality coffee.
Here are some tips and recommendations to help you brew the perfect cup of Red Flat Coffee:
1) Use Freshly Roasted Coffee Beans
Red Flat Coffee tastes best when the beans are freshly roasted. Be sure to check the roast date on the package and use the beans within a few weeks of that date for optimal freshness.
2) Grind the Beans to the Right Consistency
The grind size can affect the taste of the coffee. For Red Flat Coffee, a medium grind is recommended for drip coffee makers, while a finer grind is better for espresso machines.
3) Use High-Quality Water
The water you use to brew your Red Flat Coffee should be clean and free from impurities. If your tap water tastes funny, consider using filtered or bottled water instead.
4) Brew at the Right Temperature
Red Flat Coffee is best brewed at a temperature between 195-205°F (90-96°C). If your coffee maker doesn’t have a temperature control feature, you can heat the water in a kettle and let it cool for a minute or two before brewing.
5) Use the Right Ratio of Coffee to Water
For Red Flat Coffee, a ratio of 1:16 (one part coffee to 16 parts water) is recommended. However, you can adjust the ratio to your personal taste preferences.
6) Experiment with Brewing Methods
Red Flat Coffee can be brewed using a variety of methods, such as drip coffee makers, French presses, pour-over coffee makers, and espresso machines. Try different methods to see which one brings out the best flavour profile for you.
By following these brewing tips and using the right equipment, you can enjoy a delicious cup of Red Flat Coffee with a unique flavour and aroma that will leave you wanting more.
What Does Flat Red Coffee Taste Like?
Flat Red Coffee is a unique and flavorful beverage that blends the tartness and sweetness of orange and pomegranate juice with the rich and robust flavours of espresso.
The orange juice adds a refreshing citrusy flavour, while the pomegranate juice adds a slightly tart and tangy note.
The overall taste is balanced and refreshing, making it a great choice for those who prefer a sweeter coffee beverage.
As juices are naturally sweet, it is best to enjoy the drink without adding milk or sweeteners.
Additionally, the natural antioxidants and vitamins in fruit juices may offer additional health benefits.
Overall, the taste and flavours of Flat Red Coffee are a delicious departure from more traditional espresso-based drinks.
Flat red coffee is sweet and pleasant drink especially during Winter when fresh oranges and Pomegranates are available.
The flavour profiles of this type of coffee are similar to that of popular mulled wine, therefore, this drink also has a unique aroma that you must experience before taking a sip.
What Is The Future Of Flat Red Coffee?
As the specialty coffee industry continues to grow, so too does the popularity of beverages such as Flat Red Coffee.
But what does the future hold for this unique and flavorful coffee? Here are some trends and innovations to look out for:
- Increased Emphasis on Sustainability: As consumers become more aware of the impact their purchases have on the environment, the specialty coffee industry is placing greater emphasis on sustainability. Red Flat Coffee is already known for its ethical sourcing practices, but expect to see even more focus on eco-friendly farming methods and packaging in the future.
- Creative Flavors and Blends: While Red Flat Coffee is already known for its distinct flavour profile, there is always room for innovation in the world of specialty coffee. Look out for unique blends and flavour combinations that push the boundaries of what is possible with coffee.
- Rise of Direct-to-Consumer Sales: With the increasing popularity of online shopping, many specialty coffee roasters are bypassing traditional retail channels and selling directly to consumers. This can lead to lower prices for consumers and greater control over the quality of the final product.
- Embracing Technology: As with many industries, technology is playing an increasingly important role in the specialty coffee world. Expect to see innovations like AI-powered roasting machines and mobile ordering apps that make it easier than ever to enjoy a delicious cup of Red Flat Coffee.
Overall, the future of red flat coffee looks bright, with a focus on sustainability, creativity, and innovation, this unique coffee is sure to continue to capture the hearts (and taste buds) of coffee lovers around the world.
FAQs
A. Flat red coffee is typically served without the addition of sugar or any sweeteners, however, it has the natural sweetness of Orange and Pomegranate juice.
A. Flat red coffee is definitely the healthiest coffee drink.
The vitamins and antioxidants of fresh juices combined with the caffeine in coffee make a complete health drink.
Additionally, it doesn’t contain any added calories from milk and sweeteners, making it perfect for weight loss diets.
A. Vadym the inventor behind flat red coffee says that he wanted to create a coffee beverage without the addition of milk.
His idea was to add steamed juice from orange and pomegranate to espresso shots just like you’d add steamed milk to coffee to prepare a flat white, and it resulted in a delightful flavour combination.
A. Yes, you can definitely customize the ratio of orange and pomegranate juice according to your taste preferences.
Experimenting with different ratios can help you find the perfect balance of flavours for your taste buds.
A. It is made with freshly squeezed orange and pomegranate juice and a shot of espresso and contains no artificial ingredients or preservatives.
Conclusion
Flat red coffee is a popular drink in Ukraine, and can also be found in Ukrainian communities around the world. It is a delicious and unique way to enjoy espresso and is definitely worth trying if you have the chance.
The combination of the slightly bitter taste of espresso coffee with the sweetness of orange juice and the tanginess of pomegranate creates a well-balanced and refreshing flavour profile.
While this beverage isn’t as well-known as other espresso-based drinks, it’s a great drink to try if you enjoy exploring new flavours and coffee traditions.
So give it a try and savour the taste of Ukraine in a cup.
If you enjoyed this article, read more like this by checking out our Specialty Coffee Beginners Guides.
