Advice On The Many Uses Of Instant Coffee

by SuzyQ

posted on 11/03/2009

Instant coffee granules have been around since just after the turn of the century ... the turn of the last century, that is. These little miracle granules appeared around 1910, but didn't really take off in popularity since the 1940s and the World War II era. Its most popular time was in the 1950s and 1960s, when saving time in the kitchen was of paramount importance.

Instant coffee is still quick and easy, and there are many brands that have respectable taste for those who are coffee connoisseurs. However, with the advent of personal brewing machines and all sorts of other coffee contraptions, instant coffee has fallen by the wayside. But that doesn't mean instant coffee should be banished from your cupboard. There are many other uses for instant coffee, so you should always have a jar on your shelf. Here are some things it is good for:

Chocolate cake and brownies: Add a tablespoon of instant coffee into the liquid for the batter for a deeper and richer-tasting chocolate flavor. It doesn't make it taste like coffee: it just gives it a much more intense chocolate flavor.

Chili: Add a tablespoon or two of instant coffee while the chili is simmering. You won't taste the coffee, but it intensifies the savory flavors and adds a layer of richness.

Caramel Sauce: Make your own caramel sauce with butter, cream, sugar and water, but add a teaspoon of instant coffee to the mix. Or, if you prefer, heat store-bought caramel sauce and stir in a teaspoon of instant coffee. Again, the coffee adds a richness and intensity that will have your family guessing why it tastes so good. Use over ice cream or pancakes ... or wherever caramel sauce is warranted. Yum!

Meat Rub: If you're looking for a tasty rub to go on your grilled meat or seafood, try this combination for a smoky kick. Combine two teaspoons of sugar, one teaspoon of salt and one teaspoon of instant coffee. Mix in a blender or food processor until combined, then dust or rub on your meat, chicken or seafood. Broil or grill and enjoy!

Cream Cheese Spread: Soften a brick of cream cheese in the microwave and then place in a food processor. Add 1 teaspoon of instant coffee, 3-4 teaspoons of honey and 1 teaspoon of cocoa powder, and pulse until smooth. Use on bagels, crackers or toast. Sprinkle with some powdered sugar or cinnamon, if desired. Another yummy treat.

Coffee is the secret ingredient in all of these mini-recipes. You will never know that the secret is instant coffee, and I guarantee that people will ask you for your recipes. Won't they be surprised to see instant coffee is what makes all of these taste sensations great?

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