For millions across the UK, the morning ritual is incomplete without a steaming cup of coffee. It's the essential fuel to tackle the day ahead. But for those relying on instant coffee, the experience can sometimes be disappointing, marked by a bitter or bland taste.
The Expert's Simple Solution
Coffee expert Ethan Rode believes instant coffee is often "underrated" and can deliver a fantastic flavour with the right technique. In a recent YouTube video, highlighted by the Express, he shared his foolproof method to banish the common burnt and bitter notes associated with instant granules.
The typical routine involves spooning coffee into a mug and adding boiling water. However, Ethan Rode insists one extra step is crucial. "Instant coffee is going to taste bitter if you burn it," he explained.
The Two-Second Transformation
His revolutionary advice is straightforward. Before you pour in the hot water, add a small splash of cold water to the coffee powder in your mug. Stir gently for a few seconds until the granules are fully dissolved.
"Instead we're going to add some cold water, dissolve the instant coffee and then add hot water to it," he said. This simple act prevents the coffee from being scorched by the boiling water, which is the primary cause of harsh, bitter flavours.
For those worried about a weaker cup, a standard guideline is to use one teaspoon of instant coffee for every six ounces of water.
Public Reaction and a Bonus Tip
The hack, also promoted by the Instagram page Cafely, has been met with enthusiasm. One commenter described it as "life changing" for someone who lives on cheap coffee, noting it made their morning much better.
Another user offered a supplementary tip for excessively bitter coffee: adding a small pinch of salt to counteract the bitterness, calling it a "literal life saver."
This easy adjustment promises to elevate the humble instant coffee from a mere caffeine delivery system to a genuinely enjoyable and smoother drink, perfect for a quick yet satisfying start to the day.
