Long before the popularity of modern coffee milk became popular, Indonesians were already accustomed to mixing coffee with spices: ginger coffee in stalls, coffee with cardamom and cloves in Aceh and Sumatra, or coffee with cinnamon when it rains. Spiced coffee is part of our tradition, and is now being sought again as a warm drink with more “character”.
Spiced coffee vs herbal coffee: what's the difference?
These terms are often used interchangeably. Simply put:
- Spiced coffee is coffee mixed with kitchen spices such as ginger, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, nutmeg, or lemongrass.
- Herbal coffee is a broader term: coffee combined with other plant ingredients, such as moringa leaves, ginseng, or herbal ingredients.
Both are still coffee drinks. Spices and herbs add aroma, warmth, and variety, not medicine.
Spices that go well with coffee
- Ginger — a warm, spicy taste that lingers in the throat. Perfect for cold or rainy weather.
- Cinnamon — gives a sweet impression without sugar. The perfect companion for coffee without sugar.
- Cardamom — fresh, slightly citrusy aroma, typical of Middle Eastern and Acehnese coffee.
- Clove — strong and warm aroma. Quite a bit.
- Lemongrass and pandan — lighter and more fragrant, perfect for cold coffee.
Why is spiced coffee suitable for making decaf?
Spiced coffee is best enjoyed in the afternoon or evening, when relaxing or on a rainy day. It is precisely at these times that caffeine is most disruptive to sleep. Based on... decaf coffee, You can enjoy a warm cup of ginger coffee at 8 p.m. and still sleep soundly. Read also decaf coffee guide.
How to make spiced coffee at home
- Boil 250 ml of water with 2 slices of crushed ginger, 1 small stick of cinnamon, 2 cardamom pods, and 2 cloves for ±5 minutes.
- Strain the spice water, pour it into a cup.
- Brew decaf coffee in it. For coffee bags, soak the bag for 3–5 minutes.
- Add palm sugar or milk if you like.
If you don't have time to boil the spices, use coffee that already contains a spice mixture.
Wakiro Rempah Hangat: ready-to-dip decaf spiced coffee
Wakiro Warm Spices blending robusta decaf with ginger, cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves, plus arrowroot starch and moringa powder. No added sugar, just dip, no pulp. Available in 5 and 6 packs contents 10, or in Harmony Bundle along with the Classic variant.
Wakiro also developed the Nusantara Craft line and Pilates Menu Series which raises Indonesian ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does spiced coffee contain caffeine?
It depends on the coffee. Regular spiced coffee still contains caffeine like most coffees. Spiced coffee with a decaf base, like Wakiro Rempah Hangat, has lower caffeine content.
Can herbal coffee cure diseases?
No. Herbal and spiced coffee are beverages, not medicines. Enjoy them for their taste, and consult a healthcare professional about your health.
This article is for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for advice from a doctor or healthcare professional.