Instant Coffee vs Fresh Brewed

Which One Should You Be Sipping?

Ah, the age-old debate: instant coffee or brewed coffee? It’s a question as polarizing as cats vs. dogs, pineapple on pizza, or whether socks and sandals are a fashion faux pas (spoiler: they are). But fear not, dear caffeine seekers, for we are here to help you navigate this murky, coffee-infused conundrum with a blend of humour and some serious coffee talk.

The Tale of Two Coffees

If instant coffee were a person, it would be that friend who shows up late but always knows the quickest way to the destination. Brewed coffee, on the other hand, is your artsy friend who takes forever to get ready but always looks impeccable. Both have their charms, but they’re definitely not interchangeable.

Instant Coffee: What Is It?

Instant coffee is the superhero of caffeinated convenience. All you need is a jar of instant granules, a kettle, and boom—your cup of coffee is ready faster than you can say, “I overslept again.”

But let’s give instant coffee its due respect. It’s made by brewing real coffee, then freeze-drying or spray-drying the liquid to create those magical granules. That means it’s real coffee, just in a time-travelling form. And while it’s often dismissed as “less fancy,” modern options offer a variety of flavours that can rival your corner café.

What Is Brewed Coffee?

Brewed coffee is the purist’s dream. Ground coffee beans meet hot water, and together they perform a caffeinated symphony. Whether it’s through a French press, drip machine, or pour-over, brewed coffee is an experience, not just a beverage.

It’s the reason your kitchen smells like a warm hug in the morning. It’s the ritual of measuring the perfect amount of grounds, waiting patiently, and savouring the first sip like it’s a life-affirming event. Brewed coffee is the coffee equivalent of farm-to-table dining.

Comparing Instant Coffee and Brewed Coffee

Now that we’ve met our caffeinated contenders, let’s break it down.

Taste

Let’s not sugarcoat it (unless you’re into that). Instant coffee has a reputation for being… well, instant. Its flavour is often described as one-dimensional, with some bitterness and less depth than brewed coffee. However, modern instant coffees are upping their game, offering smoother, richer profiles that won’t make your taste buds cry.

Caffeine Content

Brewed coffee, on the other hand, is a flavour explosion. You get the full spectrum of coffee notes—nutty, fruity, chocolaty—depending on the beans and brewing method. It’s like a fine wine tasting, but with caffeine.

If your main goal is to feel like a buzzing productivity machine, here’s the scoop:

• Instant coffee has 30-60mg of caffeine per serving.
• Brewed coffee packs a punch with 95mg per serving.

So, if you’re pulling an all-nighter or just need to keep up with a toddler, brewed coffee has the edge. But if you’re just looking for a gentle nudge into wakefulness, instant coffee gets the job done.

Health Impacts

This is where things get serious, so let’s put our coffee mugs down for a moment.

Brewed coffee is packed with antioxidants, thanks to its less processed nature. It’s been linked to numerous health benefits, including improved heart health, better brain function, and a lower risk of certain diseases. Plus, it’s less likely to contain acrylamide, a chemical that forms during the high-temperature processing of instant coffee.

Instant coffee, while not a nutritional villain, does have slightly higher levels of acrylamide. However, it’s also high in antioxidants and comes with the added bonus of being gentler on the stomach due to its lower caffeine content. For the calorie-conscious, both options are nearly calorie-free when consumed black.

Convenience

No contest here. Instant coffee is the reigning champion of convenience. Forget about grinding beans, waiting for the brew, or cleaning equipment. It’s coffee for the time-starved, the multitaskers, and the perpetually late.

Brewed coffee, while less convenient, is about the experience. It’s a labour of love that rewards you with unparalleled aroma and taste. Think of it as slow food for your caffeine needs.

Cost

Instant coffee wins again in the budget department. It’s typically more affordable, with one jar lasting weeks. Brewed coffee can get pricey, especially if you’re a fan of single-origin beans or fancy brewing gadgets.

Should You Switch to Brewed Coffee?

If you’re currently living your best life with instant coffee, there’s no need to feel guilty. But if you’re curious about exploring the complex flavours and health benefits of brewed coffee, it might be worth a try. Start with a simple French press or drip coffee maker and see if the ritual and taste win you over.

For instant coffee enthusiasts who want the best of both worlds, here’s a pro tip: You can make instant coffee taste like freshly brewed! Use high-quality instant coffee, mix it with hot (not boiling) water, and add a pinch of salt or cinnamon to enhance the flavour. Voilà—instant coffee sophistication!

The Final Verdict

Conclusion

Instant coffee and brewed coffee each have their place in the caffeine hierarchy. Instant is quick, cheap, and reliable. Brewed is rich, aromatic, and an art form. Whether you choose the speed of instant or the depth of brewed, the most important thing is that you enjoy every sip.

Ready to take your coffee game to the next level? Visit Big Al’s Coffee Club to discover premium coffees, teas, and all the tools you need to brew your perfect cup. Whether you’re team instant or team brewed, we’ve got something for everyone. Because life’s too short for bad coffee—and bad decisions.

Please note: the opinions expressed in this post should never be construed as advice. The thoughts are based on my experiences and those of my friends and family. I am not a restauranteur or a formal barista. I just love coffee and love sharing what I learn with everyone. Please enjoy and share your favourites in the comments section.
Also: If considering a change in diet, exercise, nutrition and or supplements, you must consult your medical practitioner to make sure that what you are about to embark upon doesn’t interfere with your current treatments.

Another note: on images, if the picture does not have my logo, I have downloaded from either Unsplash or iStock. If you are looking for images please check them out.

Hi, I’m Al, a coffee and tea enthusiast passionate about helping you craft the perfect cup. With years of experience exploring blends, brewing methods, and nutrition, I share trusted tips and recommendations to make your coffee and tea rituals extraordinary. See more in About Us