Kaffekokning: Experience Swedish outdoor coffee culture in nature
The Swedish art of outdoor coffee
For many Swedes, there is hardly anything better than enjoying a hot cup of coffee in the great outdoors. While the trend for high-end coffee machines is growing worldwide, the Swedes prefer something more down-to-earth: Kaffekokning - making coffee over an open fire.
But Kaffekokning is more than just brewing coffee; it's a tradition, an experience and an opportunity to connect with nature. In this post, I take you on a journey into the world of Swedish outdoor coffee, an experience that every Sweden lover should try at least once!
What is Kaffekokning?
Kaffekokning, or "making coffee", describes the method of making coffee directly in a pot or pot over an open fire without a filter or machine. The method is extremely simple, but that is precisely what makes it so charming: A simple kettle, freshly ground coffee powder, water and a fire are all you need. If you have the right equipment, you can make coffee anywhere - whether on the lakeshore, on a hike or at a picnic in the forest.
The ingredients: What you need for Kaffekokning
Kaffekokning is minimalist, and that's what makes it so special. For the typical experience you need:
- A coffee pot or a kettle: This should be fireproof and have a sturdy handle so that it can be hung over the fire.
- Freshly ground coffee: Swedish roasts are often somewhat stronger and darker, perfect for the intense flavour that comes from coffee coking.
- Clean water from nature: Many Swedes use water directly from a clear lake or spring.
- A fire pit or a portable camping fire: In many places in Sweden there are specially equipped fireplaces that are open to the public.
Preparation: step by step to the perfect cup of coffee
The art of making coffee requires a little patience, but it is simple:
- Boil water: Hang the kettle of water over the fire and bring to the boil.
- Add coffee powderAdd about one heaped spoonful of coffee powder per cup to the hot water.
- Simmer slowlyWait a few minutes for the coffee powder to settle and develop its full flavour.
- Optional: A trick with cold waterPour a few drops of cold water into the kettle - this allows the powder to sink to the bottom more quickly.
- SavourPour the coffee carefully into the cup and savour the taste of nature!
Why Kaffekokning is so popular
For Swedes, Kaffekokning symbolises freedom and a connection with nature. Throughout the year, but especially in summer, many Swedes pack their coffee pot and look for a nice spot in nature. The ritual connects them to their roots and reminds them of old times when coffee culture was still something very special here.
Kaffekokning and the Swedish fika
Fika - the famous Swedish coffee break - takes on a whole new meaning with Kaffekokning. Those who meet up for an outdoor fika in Sweden often pack a few cinnamon buns or biscuits as well as the coffee pot. It's all about enjoying nature, calming down and consciously experiencing the moment.
Tips for your first coffee coking attempt
- Use safe fireplaces: Make sure that the fire is lit in a suitable place.
- Take waste with you: The Swedes love their nature and leave no trace behind - and of course this also applies to Kaffekokning!
- Experiment with the amount of coffee: Everyone has their own preference for the strength of the coffee. Try out what you like best.
Conclusion
Kaffekokning is more than coffee
For Swedes, Kaffekokning is more than just a method of making coffee - it is an experience that is part of their cultural roots. Once you have experienced the authentic flavour of Swedish outdoor coffee, you will never forget it. Try it out and bring a piece of the Swedish way of life into your everyday life - perhaps on your next trip into the great outdoors!
