The history of coffee

De geschiedenis van koffie

Kaldi and the Magical Goats

Around 800 AD, the Ethiopian goat herder Kaldi discovered something remarkable: his goats became noticeably more energetic after eating certain red berries from a bush. Curious, he tried a berry himself and immediately felt more cheerful. He shared his discovery with the local monks, who found a way to make a hot drink from it. Thus began the coffee adventure.

The first coffee drink

Initially, the monks would throw the berries into the fire. But the aroma of the roasted beans inspired them to brew a drink from them. It helped them stay awake and focused during long prayer services. Thus, coffee quickly became a popular drink among monks.

Coffee spreads to the Arab world

From the 15th century onward, coffee spread from Ethiopia to Yemen and the rest of the Arabian Peninsula. Here, it acquired the name "Qahwah," meaning "invigorating drink." Coffee houses sprang up like mushrooms: places where people gathered, exchanged ideas, and enjoyed a cup of coffee.

Europe discovers coffee

Coffee eventually reached Europe via the Ottoman Empire. In the 17th century, Venetian traders brought it with them. Initially a luxury for the elite, coffee quickly became popular with the general public. Coffeehouses became social gathering places, where news was shared, conversations sparked, and creative ideas flourished.

Mokabon: Coffee with a story

Today, you can still taste the rich tradition of coffee at Mokabon . This brand is known for carefully selected coffee beans, sustainably grown and roasted with an eye for quality. Every cup of Mokabon is a tribute to the centuries-old history of coffee: from Kaldi's goats in Ethiopia to the vibrant social scene in modern coffee houses. Whether you enjoy a strong espresso or a smooth filter coffee, Mokabon brings the story of coffee to life in your own cup.

More information & orders: info@mokabon.be | www.mokabon.be

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