Cascara: the unique coffee cherry tea

Cascara: the unique coffee cherry tea

What is cascara?

Cascara, also known as coffee cherry tea, is an exotic beverage made from the dried husks of coffee cherries. These cherries are the fruit that surrounds coffee beans. When coffee cherries are harvested, their seeds (coffee beans) are separated from the outer skin. The discarded outer skin is then dried in the sun to create cascara. It’s sold as a dried product and can be brewed into an infusion similar to herbal tea.

Flavor profile

Cascara has a surprising flavor profile closer to herbal tea than coffee. It offers notes reminiscent of raisins, berries, and even tobacco. Despite its origin from coffee cherries, cascara doesn’t taste like brewed coffee. Technically, it’s neither coffee nor tea. Instead, it’s a fruit tisane made from the Coffea genus fruit.

Nutritional benefits

Cascara is rich in minerals and antioxidants, making it a healthy choice. It supports brain function, immunity, and overall well-being. Compared to black coffee, cascara contains around 100 milligrams of caffeine per liter, while black coffee typically has 400 to 800 milligrams per liter.The Journey to European Markets

Cascara has been around for over a decade, but its journey to European markets faced challenges. While it was traditionally consumed in places like Yemen and Ethiopia, it wasn’t officially recognized as a new food product within the EU until June 2021. Now, cascara’s popularity is on the rise, appealing to both coffee drinkers and tea enthusiasts alike.

Try Costa Rican cascara

Our Cascara Costa Rica Hacienda Sonora comes from a farm located at the base of the Poas volcano in Costa Rica.

Here you can see the cascara product! So, if you’re curious about trying something beyond coffee or traditional tea, give cascara a sip—it’s a delightful and refreshing experience! 🍵