Discovering Café Bombón: A Sweet Delight from Spain

A Brief History of Café Bombón

Café Bombón first gained popularity in Valencia, Spain, and its appeal quickly spread across the country. The drink's unique combination of espresso and sweetened condensed milk has also found favor in various Asian countries, including Thailand, Singapore, and Malaysia. In these regions, similar beverages existed long before Café Bombón's introduction, such as Kopi Susu Panas in Malaysia and Kafe Ron in Thailand. However, the key difference lies in the preparation: Café Bombón uses a 1:1 ratio of espresso to sweetened condensed milk, while the Asian versions typically use ground coffee instead of espresso.

The Art of Preparing Café Bombón

Creating the perfect Café Bombón involves a few simple steps and ingredients. The visual appeal of this drink is just as important as its taste, so it's best prepared in a glass to showcase the contrasting layers of coffee and milk.

Ingredients

• Filtered water
• Espresso grounds
• Sweetened condensed milk

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Prepare the Espresso:

   • Fill the bottom of your espresso maker with water, leaving a quarter to a half inch from the lip.
   • Insert the part that holds the espresso grounds.
   • Fill the filter with espresso grounds, about ½ to ¾ full.
   • Pack the espresso grounds evenly and tightly with a large flat spoon.
   • Fill the filter to the top and pack the espresso again.
   • Screw the upper half of the espresso maker on and set it on medium to high heat.

2. Prepare the Glasses:

   • Gather your glasses and fill them up to a third with sweetened condensed milk.

3. Combine the Ingredients:

   • Wait for 4 to 5 minutes for the espresso to brew and fill the top half of the espresso maker.
   • Pour the brewed espresso into each glass, filling them up to two-thirds full.

The result is a visually stunning drink with two distinct layers that you can stir together before enjoying.

Interesting Facts and Statistics

• Global Coffee Consumption: According to the International Coffee Organization, global coffee consumption reached approximately 167.58 million 60-kilogram bags in 2020/2021. This highlights the growing popularity of coffee-based beverages like Café Bombón worldwide. Source

• Condensed Milk Production: The global production of sweetened condensed milk was estimated at around 1.5 million metric tons in 2020. This ingredient is a key component of Café Bombón, contributing to its unique flavor and texture. Source

• Café Bombón's Popularity: While Café Bombón is well-known in Spain, it remains a hidden gem in many parts of the world. Its unique preparation and sweet taste make it a delightful alternative to traditional coffee drinks.

Conclusion

Café Bombón is a delightful coffee treat that combines the rich flavor of espresso with the sweetness of condensed milk. Its origins in Valencia, Spain, and subsequent popularity in various Asian countries highlight its universal appeal. By following the simple steps outlined in this article, you can enjoy this visually stunning and delicious coffee at home. Whether you're a coffee aficionado or just looking to try something new, Café Bombón is sure to impress.

For more information on coffee trends and statistics, visit the International Coffee Organization and Statista.