From the smooth, aromatic allure of a coffee-chicory blend to the soothing notes of a steaming cup of tea, the perfect brew isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s also about how you prepare them. If you’ve ever wondered why the same blend can taste vastly different from one cup to the next, this guide is for you. Let’s dive into the fundamentals of making the perfect beverage using our coffee-chicory blends, specialty coffee and tea powders, and green tea.

1. Understanding Our Coffee-Chicory Blends

Coffee-chicory blends are beloved for their distinctive, slightly nutty taste and fuller body. Chicory root adds depth and a hint of sweetness, complementing the natural flavor of coffee beans.

1. 60-40 Blend (60% Coffee, 40% Chicory)
   • Who It’s For: Fans of a robust, slightly bold flavor.
   • Flavor Profile: Smooth yet rich, with a hint of toasted sweetness from the chicory.
2. 70-30 Blend (70% Coffee, 30% Chicory)
   • Who It’s For: Those who want a balanced cup—noticeably rich in coffee flavor, yet smoothed out by chicory.
   • Flavor Profile: Medium-bodied, with enough chicory to lend a pleasant roundness to the cup.
3. 80-20 Blend (80% Coffee, 20% Chicory)
   • Who It’s For: Coffee lovers who enjoy just a subtle hint of chicory.
   • Flavor Profile: Predominantly coffee-forward, with a mild nutty-sweet undertone.
4. 100-0 Blend (Pure Coffee)
   • Who It’s For: Traditionalists who prefer the classic, unadulterated taste of coffee beans.
   • Flavor Profile: Pure, bright coffee notes without the added depth of chicory.

2. Specialty Coffee and Tea: PB & A

PB & A stands for Pre-Brewed Coffee and Assam Tea. This unique offering combines the aromatic richness of coffee with the robust character of Assam tea in a ready-to-use powder or concentrate.

• Who It’s For: Adventurous beverage enthusiasts who like a hybrid drink with coffee’s boldness and tea’s mellow sweetness.
• Brewing Tip: This product is versatile try it with equal parts hot water or hot milk to discover the perfect ratio that suits your palate.

3. Tea Variants

1. Family Tea
   • Flavor Profile: A comforting blend with a medium strength, ideal for daily household consumption.
   • Brewing Tip: Steep in freshly boiled water for 3–5 minutes. Add milk and sweetener (if desired) for a classic cup of chai.
2. Hotel Tea
   • Flavor Profile: Stronger and more robust to ensure a bold flavor that stands out, even with added milk or spices.
   • Brewing Tip: Perfect for masala chai. Crush fresh ginger, cardamom, or other spices, and add them while boiling the tea for a flavorful kick.
3. Green Tea
   • Flavor Profile: Light, refreshing, and slightly grassy, targeting health-conscious consumers.
   • Brewing Tip: Steep in hot water (not boiling) for 2–3 minutes to avoid bitterness. A dash of honey can enhance the taste.
4. Pure Chicory
   • Flavor Profile: Earthy and slightly sweet, used as a caffeine-free coffee substitute or to mix with coffee for added richness.
   • Brewing Tip: Mix it with any of the coffee blends to experiment with flavor depth. On its own, brew with hot water or milk for a smooth, caffeine-free beverage.

4. Essential Brewing Equipment

• French Press: Great for pure coffee or coffee-chicory blends, offering a fuller body and retaining essential oils.
• Drip Coffee Maker: Convenient for daily brewing; works well with all coffee-chicory ratios.
• Moka Pot: Delivers a strong, espresso-like cup—ideal for those who prefer an intense flavor.
• Tea Kettle & Strainer: Perfect for all types of tea. Ensures you can easily control steeping time.

5. Mastering the Ratios

A. Coffee-Chicory Blends

1. Coffee to Water Ratio
   • A general guideline: 1 tablespoon of coffee-chicory blend per 150 ml of water.
   • Adjust to taste: If you like it stronger, use more powder; if it’s too bold, use less.
2. Brewing Temperature
   • Aim for water between 90–96°C (195–205°F).
   • Water that’s too hot can burn the coffee grounds, while cooler water can under-extract flavor.
3. Steeping Time
   • French Press: 3–4 minutes for a balanced flavor.
   • Drip Maker: The machine’s flow rate typically takes care of timing, so focus on the right coffee-to-water ratio.

B. PB & A (Pre-Brewed Coffee and Assam Tea)

• Mix 1–2 teaspoons of PB & A with 150 ml of hot water or milk. Adjust as needed for a more robust or milder cup.

C. Tea Varieties

1. Family Tea / Hotel Tea
   • 1 teaspoon of tea leaves per 150 ml of water.
   • Steep Time: 3–5 minutes.
   • For masala chai, boil the tea leaves with milk and water, adding spices as desired.
2. Green Tea
   • 1 teaspoon of green tea per 150 ml of water.
   • Steep Time: 2–3 minutes at around 80°C (175°F) to prevent bitterness.
3. Pure Chicory
   • Use ½ teaspoon chicory mixed with ½ teaspoon of any coffee powder for a layered flavor.
   • Brew similarly to coffee, but adjust the ratio if you prefer a more pronounced chicory note.

6. Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using Boiling Water for Green Tea:
   • This can result in a bitter taste. Let the water cool slightly before steeping.
2. Over-Steeping Coffee-Chicory Blends:
   • Leaving the grounds in contact with water too long can cause an overly strong or even bitter taste.
3. Neglecting Freshness:
   • Coffee and tea lose flavor over time. Store them in airtight containers, away from light, heat, and moisture.
4. Skipping the Bloom Stage (for Coffee)
   • If using a pour-over or drip method, pour a small amount of hot water over the grounds first and wait 30 seconds. This helps release CO₂ and enhances flavor extraction.
5. Incorrect Ratios:
   • Too much powder can result in an overpowering cup; too little might taste weak. Adjust gradually until you find the sweet spot.

7. Experiment and Personalize

Brewing is part art, part science, and your personal preference is the ultimate guide. Whether you’re a fan of bold flavors or prefer something milder, use these tips as a starting point:

• Add Milk or Cream: Particularly for 60-40 or 70-30 blends to mellow out the boldness.
• Sweeteners: Brown sugar, honey, or even flavored syrups can add a unique twist.
• Spices: A dash of cinnamon, cardamom, or nutmeg can elevate your cup to café-level indulgence.

Final Sip

Brewing the perfect cup is all about understanding your ingredients whether it’s the sweet, earthy hint of chicory or the robust strength of Assam tea and then applying the right technique. With our range of coffee-chicory blends, specialty PB & A, and tea varieties, there’s something for every palate. Start with the basics, experiment with ratios, and soon you’ll be able to create café-worthy beverages right in your own kitchen.

Remember: good coffee or tea isn’t just about taste it’s about the experience. Take a moment to appreciate the aroma, the warmth of the cup in your hands, and the flavors that unfold with each sip. Enjoy your brew, and happy experimenting!