Coffee guide / Chicory coffee
Chicory coffee: what it is and how to brew it
Chicory is a roasted root that South Indian filter kaapi has long been blended with. It adds body and colour. Here is how to brew it, and how it compares with pure coffee.
In the cup: A thicker, darker, bittersweet decoction that holds up to hot milk. Swadamalnad is 80% Arabica and 20% chicory.
How to make it
Brew an 80:20 blend (About 20 minutes)
- Add the powder. Two to three heaped tablespoons of Swadamalnad in the top cup of a steel filter.
- Pour and wait. Add water just off the boil and let it drip for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Serve with milk. Mix about one part decoction with three parts hot milk.
| With chicory (Swadamalnad) | Without chicory (Pureswada) | |
|---|---|---|
| Blend | 80% Arabica, 20% chicory | 100% Arabica |
| Cup | Thick, dark, bittersweet | Cleaner, lighter body |
| Best with | Plenty of hot milk | Milk or black |
| Powder | 2–3 heaped tablespoons | Add about ½ tablespoon more |
| Roast | Medium-dark | Medium |
What you need
- South Indian steel filter (you probably have this): Two stacked cups with a pressing disc: it drips a thick decoction slowly. The classic way to make filter kaapi.
- Davara and tumbler (nice to have): For pouring the kaapi back and forth, which cools it and builds the froth.
We are planning to stock this equipment; it is not on sale yet.
Which Kaapiswada coffee to buy
Swadamalnad (80% Arabica · 20% Chicory, 250 g): This is the 80:20 chicory blend, the way many South Indian homes drink it.
Also works: Pureswada (100% Arabica · No chicory). If you are not sure about chicory, try the same brew without it and compare.
Tips
- Chicory does not taste like coffee. It is bittersweet and adds body.
- Tell us what you prefer after your first pack: we read every message.
Read more: What is chicory in filter coffee? · Filter coffee with or without chicory · 80:20 filter coffee vs 100% Arabica
More guides: I want South Indian filter coffee · I love black coffee · All guides
How to order
Add your coffee to the bag, enter your delivery details and check the full total, then choose Place order. The secure payment page opens straight away (UPI, cards or netbanking). Once your payment is received, your order is confirmed and you get your order ID.
Delivery is free in Bengaluru. Elsewhere, delivery is ₹49 + GST (₹57.82 in total), shown in your bag for your pincode before you confirm. You pay securely online when you place the order, and we send tracking details once your order ships. You can check your order any time on the Track your order page.
Questions first? Read the FAQ or the shipping policy.