Coffee of the Five Elements

I don't really recall the exact time when I started drinking coffee this way but it must have been years ago. Also, it's not the only way I have my coffee, it's just one of the ways. And since it has been with me for such a long time, I like sharing it and treating others to such a coffee. I don't drink it everyday, yet I notice that I tend to drink it more during the winter season.​ So, here’s a bit of background for those who love knowing the “why” behind things. This coffee-making method comes from traditional Chinese medicine and is all about balancing the five elements: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water. Each element matches a taste—sour, bitter, sweet, spicy, and salty. The trick is to add ingredients in a specific order that’s meant to balance the energy in your body. In short: stick to the sequence, and you’re good to go!

How to Prepare Coffee of the Five Elements

1. Wood (sour taste):
   Add a hint of something sour, like a drop of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar. This step is optional, depending on your preference.
2. Fire (bitter taste):
   Brew your coffee as usual (e.g., using a French press, espresso machine, or drip coffee). The bitterness of coffee itself represents the Fire element.
3. Earth (sweet taste):
   Add a sweetener, such as sugar, honey, maple syrup, or agave syrup. Use natural sweeteners if possible for a healthier touch.
4. Metal (spicy taste):
   Add warming spices like cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, nutmeg, or cloves. These not only enhance the flavor but also improve digestion and circulation.
5. Water (salty taste):
   Add a small pinch of salt. This step may sound unusual, but it balances the flavours and enhances the overall taste.

What Are the Benefits?
​OK, to be completely honest, I’d take the benefits below with a grain of salt. I did some internet digging to put together this list, and while they might be true, I wouldn’t bet my life on them. For me, the most standout benefit is the taste. And yes - it gives the extra kick , especially when I sneak in a pinch of chili pepper or black pepper. 
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• Balanced Energy: This coffee is believed to harmonize the body's energy flow, making it more grounding and gentle than regular coffee.
• Improved Digestion: The addition of spices and salt can support digestion and reduce bloating.
• Enhanced Focus: The combination of caffeine and spices can boost mental clarity and focus.
• Mood Balancer: The balanced ingredients may stabilize energy levels and reduce the jittery feeling some people get from coffee.

When is the Best Time to Drink It?

• Morning: Great as a morning beverage, as it energizes the body while being gentle on the stomach.
• Midday: It can also serve as a pick-me-up in the afternoon if you're feeling low on energy.

Avoid drinking it late in the evening, as the caffeine and spices may interfere with sleep.

What Can You Add?

• Non-dairy milk or regular milk if you prefer creaminess.
• Vanilla extract for a sweeter, aromatic touch.
• Coconut oil or Ghee butter (for a bulletproof-style coffee).

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What Can You Skip?

• The sour step (Wood) if you’re not a fan of tangy flavours.
• The sweetener (Earth) if you prefer your coffee without sweetness.
• Any specific spice (Metal) if it doesn't suit your taste.