Frappe
Iced blended coffee drink.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Olympus Caffe & Bakery
The Frappe was invented in 1957 at the International Trade Fair in Thessaloniki, Greece. Dimitrios Vakondios, a Nescafé representative, couldn't find hot water to make his usual instant coffee, so he mixed the coffee with cold water and ice in a shaker. This accidental creation quickly became a popular drink in Greece.
The Frappe has become deeply ingrained in Greek coffee culture, often associated with relaxation, socializing, and enjoying the Mediterranean climate. It's more than just a drink; it's a symbol of Greek summer and leisurely coffee breaks.
Ubiquitous in Cafés
Frappe is offered in nearly every café in Greece and is a staple on most menus. It's a convenient and widely accessible choice for locals and tourists alike.
Socializing and Leisure
Ordering and enjoying a Frappe is often a social activity. People gather at cafes to sip their Frappes, chat with friends, and relax. It represents a slower pace of life.
Customization
Greeks often customize their Frappes by specifying the level of sweetness ('glykos' - sweet, 'metrios' - medium, 'sketos' - unsweetened) and whether or not they want milk ('me gala' - with milk, 'horis gala' - without milk).
The Frappe is characterized by its strong coffee flavor, frothy texture, and sweetness. The ingredients create a refreshing and energizing beverage, perfect for warm weather.
The main flavor component is instant coffee, typically Nescafé. This provides a robust and slightly bitter coffee taste. The addition of sugar adds sweetness, balancing the bitterness. Evaporated milk (or condensed milk or regular milk, sometimes) contributes a creamy richness. The blending with ice creates a cool and refreshing experience, while the vigorous shaking or blending generates a thick, stable foam, a signature characteristic of the Frappe.
Froth is Key
The secret to a good Frappe is creating a thick, stable foam. Using a shaker or a milk frother is crucial for achieving the desired texture. Blending helps but can often produce a less stable foam.
Instant Coffee Matters
While other instant coffees can be used, Nescafé is traditionally preferred for its distinct flavor and frothing capabilities. Don't use brewed coffee; it won't produce the same result.
Adjust Sweetness to Taste
Experiment with the amount of sugar to find your preferred level of sweetness. Start with a small amount and add more as needed. The same goes for milk; some people prefer a very milky Frappe, while others prefer it without.
Glassware
Serve in a tall glass to properly display the layering and ample foam.
Explore additional Beverage dishes and restaurants
Explore BeverageDiscover top dining spots and culinary experiences in San Jose.
Explore San JoseLearn more about the food culture, restaurant scene, and culinary heritage of United States.
Explore United States