History of Coffee: How was it discovered?

The history of coffee is a fascinating story. For centuries, the humble bean has journeyed across continents, smuggled out of strict countries, and even stolen from royalty, shaping entire nations and economies along the way. It’s remarkable how one small bean taken from tiny trees in Ethiopia could become the second-largest commodity traded in the world today.

But when and where exactly did this caffeinated phenomenon begin? Have you ever wondered where coffee came from? Grab a cup of Hermit coffee and join us as we delve into the captivating history of coffee.

The Ethiopian Legend of Coffee Origins

According to a story written down in 1671, coffee was first discovered by the 9th-century Ethiopian goat-herder Kaldi. While tending to his goats, Kaldi noticed an unusual behavior in his herd. They became energized and excited after munching on some red berries from a certain tree.

Following his curiosity, he took a handful of the "magic berries" to a nearby monastery. The monks, however, proclaimed them to be a devil’s creation and threw them into the fire. The story could have ended there, but as the seeds within roasted in fire, the unique aroma caught the monks’ attention. They quickly saved the beans from the fire and tossed them into hot water, unknowingly brewing the very first coffee!

The discovery of these energizing berries began to spread. As word moved east and coffee reached the Arabian peninsula, it began a journey that would bring these beans across the globe.

Coffee has come a long way from its humble beginnings in the highlands of Ethiopia and is more than just a simple beverage in a cup. As we sip our favorite brew, whether meticulously brewed at home or savored at a local cafe, we are partaking in a tradition that spans centuries and continents.