Coffee is more than just a morning ritual; it’s an ingredient that can add so much depth and complexity to both sweet and savory dishes, making it very versitile. From enhancing the richness of chocolate in desserts to deepening the flavor of meats and sauces, coffee is a secret weapon in the kitchen. Here are some unique ways to incorporate coffee into your cooking and four delicious recipes to get you started.

Cooking with Coffee

Coffee’s robust, slightly bitter, and earthy notes make it a fantastic addition to many recipes. It can:

• Enhance sweetness in desserts by balancing sugar and chocolate.
• Add depth to savory dishes like marinades and stews.
• Tenderize meats, thanks to its acidity.
• Boost umami flavors, making sauces and glazes richer.

Here are some unique recipes that unexpectedly showcase coffee.

Coffee-Rubbed Steak with Garlic Butter

Ingredients:

• 2 ribeye steaks
• 2 tbsp finely ground coffee
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix coffee, brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Rub the mixture generously over both sides of the steaks. Let them rest at room temperature for 30 minutes.
3. Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat. Cook steaks for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare.
4. In the last minute, add butter and garlic to the pan, spooning the melted butter over the steaks.
5. Remove from heat, let rest for 5 minutes, and serve.

Coffee-Infused BBQ Sauce

Ingredients:

• 1 cup brewed coffee
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, combine all ingredients over medium heat.
2. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens.
3. Remove from heat and let cool. Use as a glaze for grilled meats or as a dipping sauce.

Coffee & Chocolate Mousse

Ingredients:

• 4 oz dark chocolate, chopped
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup brewed espresso
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 2 egg yolks
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Whipped cream for topping (optional)

Instructions:

1. Melt chocolate in a double boiler over low heat, stirring frequently.
2. In a separate saucepan, whisk egg yolks and sugar until pale and thick. Slowly add espresso while whisking.
3. Pour the espresso mixture into the melted chocolate, stirring until smooth. Let cool slightly.
4. Whip heavy cream to soft peaks, then gently fold into the chocolate mixture.
5. Divide into serving cups and chill for at least 2 hours.
6. Top with whipped cream before serving.

Coffee-Braised Short Ribs

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs beef short ribs
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup brewed coffee
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup tomato paste
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Season short ribs with salt and pepper.
3. In a Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear short ribs on all sides, then remove.
4. In the same pot, cook onion and garlic until softened.
5. Add coffee, beef broth, tomato paste, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Bring to a simmer.
6. Return short ribs to the pot, cover, and transfer to the oven.
7. Cook for 2.5 to 3 hours until tender.
8. Serve over mashed potatoes or rice.