Summer is fast approaching and expects spiky temperatures. In my instance, the hot season validates sitting alone in the garden, sipping iced coffee. This may not be ideal for everyone but as a barista, any caffeine treat feels heavenly. This summer, you can decide to try the exquisite Japanese iced coffee or go forth with a cold brew. The choice comes down to the preference of your taste buds.
Japanese Iced Coffee vs Cold Brew
The New York Times once carried out a study and came up with interesting findings. Some coffee enthusiasts argued that cold brew oxidizes when stored in the fridge, unlike Japanese iced coffee which provides a fresh brew for each serving. Preparing Japanese iced coffee involves pouring hot water over the grounds. At the same time, the cold brew is more time-consuming as it requires steeping the grounds in cold or room-temperature water before brewing. The unique process of Japanese iced coffee brings out some of the natural sweetness and acidity of the beans. Cold brew, on the other hand, creates a smooth and chocolatey taste with no hint of bitterness.
I prepared the Japanese iced coffee using a Chemex coffee maker and the result was satisfactory. The coffee had a balance of flavor, in both strength and freshness, and this took just a few minutes. After all, Japanese iced coffee requires a hot and strong coffee poured over ice and instantly served. Whereas one finds the cold brew strong powerful, smooth, and sweet, the Japanese is a blend of traditional hot coffee but with a refreshing coldness.
Japanese Iced Coffee
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Taste notes: Balanced flavor, freshness
Serving tips: Pour over ice and serve immediately.
Know more about How To Make Japanese-Style Ice Coffee Recipe
Cold Brew
Preparation time: 12-24 hours
Taste notes: Smooth, chocolatey, no hint of bitterness
Serving tips: Use cold or room temperature water and steep for 12-24 hours.
Know more about How to Make Cold Brew Coffee Recipe
When it comes to the choice of coffee, I prefer cold brew due to its smooth and chocolatey taste, but if you’re looking for something fruity and fresh then Japanese iced coffee is ideal. Both techniques provide an excellent cup of joe that pairs nicely with summer days in the garden.
Flavor: Japanese Iced Coffee or Cold Brew?
The debate of flavor and preference between cold brew and Japanese iced coffee will continue, but understanding the differences between them can provide a clearer picture. Cold brew is smoother while Japanese iced coffee is fresh and sweet. Whichever method you choose to prepare your beverage, both taste exquisite! Add a little cream, sugar and spices to deviate from the standard coffee flavor, whether it’s hot or cold. Be sure to experiment with both cold brew and Japanese iced coffee before making your decision.
Recipe Convenience and Ease
Normally, cold brew appears the most convenient to prepare. After all, you need to coffee grounds added to the water, and then wait. The real hustle comes when separating the liquid from the grounds. Unless one purchases a cold brew gadget, the process requires some expertise, and cleaning up after can be punishing. With Japanese iced coffee, the process is a bit simpler since you pour over the hot water and then add ice. Moreover, you can always use an electric coffee maker to further simplify the work.
Which is better; Japanese Iced Coffee or Cold Brew?
The truth is, it all comes down to personal preference. Both cold brew and Japanese iced coffee provide an excellent buzz that keeps you going throughout the day. The obvious differences are in the preparation methods, flavor notes, and convenience. If one seeks a smooth and chocolatey taste with no hint of bitterness, then a cold brew is ideal. If you’re in search of something fresh and fruity, then Japanese iced coffee is the way to go. At the end of the day, it’s all about personal preference for flavor and convenience.
Other Types of Cold Brew Coffee
Aisu kohi – Aisu kohi is a favorite among cold coffee drinkers for its sweet and creamy taste. It’s made with Japanese-style iced coffee, milk, and syrup that give it an extra sweetness.
Cha Cha – This type of cold brew combines espresso, condensed milk, and ice to make a delicious iced coffee.
Panni Kohi – Panni kohi is also known as “iced coffee latte”, made with cold brew concentrate, milk and/or cream, and ice. It provides a sweet and creamy taste that you will not forget.
Vietnamese iced coffee – This type of cold brew is made with sweetened condensed milk, brewed on a drip filter, and then poured over ice. It’s known for its creamy and bold taste.
Iced espresso drinks – Iced espresso drinks are made with a shot of espresso, sugar and/or syrup, and cold milk. Add some ice to make it truly refreshing!
Find your Taste
The best way to enjoy either of these two types of coffee is by taking time out for yourself, maybe sitting in the garden or near a window with a cool breeze. Enjoy a cold cup of coffee while admiring the beauty of nature!
At last, remember that drinking coffee should be a pleasure and not an obligation. It is important to find what satisfies your taste buds, either cold brew or Japanese iced coffee – make it your own. Have fun with it and share your favorite recipes with us.
Happy sipping!
Frequently Asked Questions About Japanese Iced Coffee vs Cold Brew
Is iced coffee the same as cold brew?
No, they are not the same. Cold brew is made by steeping coffee grounds in cold water for 12-24 hours, while iced coffee is brewed hot and then poured over ice.
The flavor profiles of each drink vary, as the cold brew is usually smoother and less acidic than iced coffee. Additionally, the preparation times for each type of coffee are different. Cold brew takes longer to prepare than iced coffee.
Does cold brew have more caffeine than iced coffee?
The amount of caffeine in cold brew and iced coffee can vary depending on the type and amount of beans used. In general, cold brew contains more caffeine than iced coffee because it is brewed for a longer period of time. However, adding milk or cream to cold brew can reduce the overall caffeine content. Be sure to check your ingredients before deciding which one is right for you.
Read more about Caffeine: Uses, Side Effects & Health Benefits