Based on historical records, the Greek frappe was found at the annual event titled Thessaloniki International Fair which took place in 1957; precisely when one of Nestle's marketing personnel was forced to find an alternative way to serve instant coffee when he realized that there was no hot water available at the event. Since then, the cold, refreshing, and foamy drink known as frappe has become popular among Greeks (especially during warm weather). Over time, the variety of frappe recipes has grown. However, the traditional recipe still offers its own enjoyment that is adored by many coffee lovers. Interested in making it? Read on for this article!
Step
Part 1 of 2: Shaking Coffee
Step 1. Measure out the coffee
Add 2-3 tbsp. good quality coffee grounds into a shaker.
- The original version uses Nescafe-branded coffee grounds; In addition, most frappe recipes will also advise you to use Nescafe Classic.
- The Greek version of Nescafe Classic is said to be able to produce the best coffee foam.
Step 2. Add sugar
Adjust the amount of sugar to your taste. If you are a bitter coffee connoisseur, there is no need to add sugar.
In Greece, coffee without sugar is known as sketo. Meanwhile, coffee with less sugar (about 1-2 tsp.) is known as metrio, and coffee with a lot of sugar is known as glyko
Step 3. Add water
Next, add a little water. The amount of water used varies greatly; some recipes ask you to add 2-3 tbsp. (10-15 ml.) of water, while some recipes ask you to add 3 tablespoons of water.
You may need to experiment to find the right ratio of water, coffee, and sugar. The amount of water should be sufficient to soak the coffee and sugar, but not too much so that the quantity and consistency of the coffee foam is maintained
Step 4. Add ice cubes if you like
Add two ice cubes to the shaker and close the shaker tightly.
Some recipes suggest adding a few ice cubes to the shaker; but there are also recipes that actually forbid you to use cold water, let alone add ice cubes. Experiment to find the recipe that best suits your taste
Step 5. Shake the shaker with coffee, sugar and water
Close the shaker tightly and beat until a thick and creamy foam forms.
- Shake the shaker for at least 15 seconds. Some recipes suggest shaking the shaker for 30 seconds or more.
- If you don't have or don't want to use a shaker, you can also use a blender to mix coffee, water, and sugar. But remember, besides being easier to use, shakers are said to be able to produce coffee foam with a better consistency than a blender. Consider the possibilities before choosing!
Part 2 of 2: Making the Frappe
Step 1. Pour the coffee mixture into the glass
Open the lid of the shaker and pour the coffee mixture into a tall glass.
Step 2. Add ice cubes
Add a few ice cubes to fill 1/2 to 2/3 of the glass.
Some recipes advise you to add a little ice cubes (about 3-4 only). But again, you can experiment to find the most appropriate dose
Step 3. Add milk if you like
Some people prefer to add milk to their coffee mix; but there are also those who feel that black coffee without milk actually tastes more delicious and refreshing.
- If you want to add milk, try adding 1-2 tbsp. cold liquid milk or evaporated milk into your coffee mix.
- In Greece, frappe mixed with milk is known as me gala.
Step 4. Add water
Pour in cold water to fill the remaining part of the glass. Again, the amount of water varies greatly; Experiment to find the dose that best suits your taste.
Step 5. Stir the frappe with a straw
Always serve the frappe with a straw, especially since you will need to stir the coffee periodically to mix the foam and liquid.
But remember, don't stir too vigorously or frequently if you don't want to ruin the texture of the coffee foam
Tips
- If you don't have a shaker, you can also use a thermos to shake the coffee.
- Don't be afraid to experiment with the amount of water, milk, and sugar. Most likely, you will need to modify the recipe several times to find the blend that best suits your taste.
- Sip coffee slowly, don't drink it right away. The best taste of frappe will only come out if enjoyed slowly; ideally, you can finish a glass of frappe within 2-3 hours.
- In line with the points above, you should serve the frappe with a glass of cold water. If the coffee liquid has run out and only the foam remains, you can add a little water, stir it, and enjoy it again.
Warning
- Before shaking the frappe, make sure the shaker cap is screwed on tightly.
- Don't pour milk into the shaker if you don't want to ruin the foamy texture of the coffee.