Revitalize your mornings with ancient Chinese Coffee of the Five Phases

According to Chinese folk medicine, the Five Phases diet ranks among the healthiest dietary approaches. It presents a captivating philosophy emphasizing the balance of five flavors: bitter, sweet, salty, sour, and spicy. Each flavor corresponds to one of the five Chinese seasons and their associated elements. While it may not seem immediately relevant to coffee, the principles of Chinese folk medicine have been ingeniously integrated into this beverage.

Inspired by ancient philosophy, this distinctive drink introduces a vibrant spectrum of taste sensations. Often referred to as the coffee of yogis, it's believed to be a source of balance and peace.

Say goodbye to overwhelming bitterness! The Coffee of the Five Phases offers an enriched taste experience, celebrating the harmony of the five elements. Its preparation varies across different Chinese provinces without a fixed recipe, making each cup a carefully crafted composition of taste balance. Spices, herbs, and fruits are blended with the coffee to capture the essence of the Five Phases.

To fully embrace the philosophy, ensure you include all the essential tastes prescribed by Chinese folk medicine, each representing a symbolic meaning.

• Sour: Represents the spring season and the energy of rebirth. Consider adding lemon juice, grapefruit, or sea buckthorn to your coffee.
• Bitter: This is the natural taste of the beverage, derived from the coffee and its brewing water.
• Sweet: Evokes the essence of summer and harmony. Sweeten your coffee with honey, cocoa, or vanilla.
• Spicy: This flavor captures the stimulating warmth of autumn. To introduce a spicy note, opt for cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, or ginger.
• Salty: Reflects the balance of winter water. A pinch of salt will enhance the other flavors.

• 1.27 cups of water
• A pinch of ground cinnamon
• A pinch of ground ginger
• 3-4 cloves
• A pinch of salt
• A few drops of lemon juice
• A heaping teaspoon of freshly ground coffee
• A teaspoon of honey

1. Pour 1.27 cups of water into a pot and bring to a boil.
2. Add the cinnamon and let it cook for about one minute.
3. Introduce a pinch of ground ginger and 3-4 cloves to the pot.
4. Add a pinch of salt.
5. Mix a few drops of lemon juice into the pot.
6. Stir in a heaping teaspoon of freshly ground coffee.
7. Take the pot off the heat and blend in a teaspoon of honey.
8. Strain the concoction and serve in cups.