Life
10 Meals Made With Coffee That Prove Java Is The Best Secret Ingredient
We all think we know a good coffee recipe when we see one, whether we're drinking it in the form of a pumpkin spice latte, or mixing it into our desserts for an extra sweet boost of caffeine. We certainly never shy away from our love of coffee, because obviously coffee makes everything better (it's pretty much better than people, if we’re being honest here). But what you may not know is that coffee could probably make whatever you’re eating right now better, too.
That’s right. When it comes to adding that final, secret ingredient, coffee is incredibly versatile. It mixes well with many different types of food (did you know that coffee itself comes from fruit?). It obviously pairs deliciously with anything sweet, but don't confine yourself to just using your java in desserts. Whether you're whipping up brunch, lunch, dinner, or a snack, make the most of your coffee beans and get creative — your tastebuds will be in for a wild ride.
These 10 foods become instantly more satisfying when made with coffee or espresso, and we can almost guarantee you never thought of putting java in them in the first place. Whether you're looking to indulge an ever-present sweet tooth, or you want to add a buzz-worthy twist to your main course, these recipes will get you your coffee fix while also giving you an unexpected dose of deliciousness. So pour yourself a cup, and get ready to cook.
Image: Endless Simmer
Texas Corn Dogs
The county fair couldn’t even compete with java-filled corn dogs by Damn Delicious.
Image: Damn Delicious
BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders
Try out a different kind of brew to make the most of your BBQ with Endless Simmer’s pulled pork sliders.
Image: Endless Simmer
Espresso Chipotle Turkey Nachos
Nachos with coffee. Could The Gouda Life’s recipe be any more perfect?
Image: The Gouda Life
Baby Back Ribs
We’ve got to say it — a little coffee makes Lick My Spoon’s ribs even more finger-licking good. You’re going to need a couple napkins for this one.
Image: Lick My Spoon
Black Bean Chili
No meat is necessary to add a deep, rich flavor to your chili, thanks to The Kitchn’s addition of espresso powder.
Image: The Kitchn
Coffee Caramelized French Toast
And you thought you were supposed to drink your coffee at brunch. Think outside the mug with Half Baked Harvest’s coffee caramelized French toast.
Image: Half Baked Harvest
Roasted Duck
A cup of black coffee brings Wild Greens and Sardines’ roast duck to the next level.
Image: Wild Greens and Sardines
Rum Brisket
It may not be completely traditional, but coffee and rum make The Shiksa’s brisket one unforgettable meal.
Image: The Shiksa
Marshmallows
To top things off in the sweetest way possible, A Cozy Kitchen’s java-filled homemade marshmallows will make you wonder why you ever used store-bought in the first place.
Image: A Cozy Kitchen