How to make pot coffee: ingredients and the best preparation

Have you ever tried a good café de olla? This drink is not only a delight for the senses, but it is also a piece of the rich Mexican tradition that has accompanied families for generations. If you want to know how to make café de olla in an authentic way and enjoy all its essence, keep reading. We share the secrets so you can make your own café de olla at home and connect with the roots of Mexico in every sip.

 

The origin and cultural importance of café de olla

Café de olla is a symbol of history and culture that has transcended generations in Mexico. Its origin dates back to colonial times, when rural communities began to prepare it in clay pots. They combined it with coffee with piloncillo and spices such as cinnamon. This tradition took root in the families of the coffee-growing regions in the south and center of the country, such as Chiapas, Oaxaca and Veracruz. There, coffee cultivation prospered in the hands of small producers. To this day, café de olla evokes the link between agricultural work, local identity and the warmth of family life.

Preparing this drink in a clay pot not only enhances its flavors, but also connects people with their cultural roots. Knowing how to make café de olla goes beyond the culinary; it is an act of preserving a tradition.

 

How to make pot coffee : essential ingredients

To prepare an authentic café de olla, you need fresh, quality ingredients that enhance its characteristic flavors. Here we explain how to make café de olla from the ingredients (Lima, 2024):

  • Coarsely ground coffee: Use fresh beans , preferably medium-dark roast. This type of roast brings out the flavor of the coffee without overpowering its subtle notes.

  • Piloncillo : This is the star sweetener in this recipe, with its natural, sweet touch that sets it apart from refined sugar.

  • Cinnamon: Cinnamon sticks are essential for giving coffee a warm, spicy aroma. They also enhance the flavor of the piloncillo and coffee beans.

  • Water: Make sure to use fresh, clean water, as its quality will influence the final result.

Now you are ready to learn more about how to make café de olla step by step!

 

How to make pot coffee step by step

Following the correct steps is key to achieving an authentic and delicious café de olla. Here we explain how to make café de olla .

 

Step 1: Gather all the ingredients

Before you begin, make sure you have all your ingredients ready. This includes freshly ground coffee beans, piloncillo, cinnamon sticks, and fresh water. If you're using a clay pot , rinse it out with hot water beforehand to remove any residue and enhance its effect on the flavors.

 

Step 2: Choose the right coffee bean

Choosing the right coffee bean is essential to achieving an authentic flavour. Opt for a coarsely ground bean with a medium-dark roast as this brings out the aromatic nuances that characterise café de olla. Grind the beans just before brewing to preserve their freshness.

 

Step 3: Boil the water with the piloncillo and cinnamon

In the clay pot, pour the desired amount of water and place the piloncillo pieces along with the cinnamon sticks. Cook over medium heat until the piloncillo completely dissolves, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom. In addition, this step allows the cinnamon to release its characteristic aroma and flavor.

 

Step 4: Add the ground coffee

Have you ever wondered exactly how to make café de olla so that it retains its traditional flavor? This step is key. When the water is boiling and the piloncillo is fully integrated, lower the heat and add the ground coffee.

Stir gently with a wooden spoon to ensure it mixes well with the water. Allow the mixture to sit over low heat for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to fully infuse. This process ensures that each sip captures the essence of this traditional drink.

 

Step 5: Use the talega as a straining method

Once the coffee is ready, use a strainer to remove any ground coffee and cinnamon residue. Serve hot in clay cups for an even more authentic experience. So, accompany it with sweet bread or cookies to fully enjoy this tradition.

 

Tips for preparing the best coffee at home

Here we share with you the best practices so you know how to make authentic pot coffee :

  • Use fresh, quality beans. Choose good quality coffee beans and grind them just before brewing. This will preserve their freshness, as well as enhance their characteristic flavour and aroma.

  • Measure the proportions accurately. The ideal ratio is one tablespoon of ground coffee for every cup of water. This measurement guarantees the right balance between intensity and flavour. This is how you achieve the perfect coffee.

  • Control the water temperature. Once you add the coffee, keep the temperature between 90°C and 96°C, avoiding over-boiling the water. This ensures that the coffee retains its flavor profile without acquiring bitter notes.

  • Adjust the sweetness to your liking. If you prefer a less sweet coffee, reduce the amount of piloncillo. You can also explore alternatives such as honey or brown sugar, depending on your preferences.

  • Add a distinctive touch. Give it your own style by experimenting with additional ingredients such as cloves, star anise or orange peel. These details can enrich the sensory experience of your coffee.

  • Create a special atmosphere. Café de olla tastes better when shared. So take advantage of the opportunity to enjoy it with friends or family in a warm and welcoming environment.



Connect with Mexican tradition through café de olla

Preparing and enjoying a good café de olla is much more than a culinary activity; it is an experience that transports you to the cultural roots of Mexico. Now that you know how to make café de olla , you can experiment with this drink at home and share it with your loved ones.

But if you want to go further, dare to explore other types of coffee that could complement your love for this drink. For example:


To finish, feel free to discover how to make café de olla and explore the richness of flavors that the world of coffee has to offer. Preparing this drink is a way to connect with Mexican culture and enjoy unique moments. HUUPA!