Costa Rican tea, particularly cascara tea, is a unique herbal beverage made from dried coffee cherry husks. Unlike traditional teas, it offers a fruity, mildly caffeinated alternative with health benefits. This article explores its origins, flavors, brewing methods, and how it compares to other teas.
The Origins of Costa Rican Cascara Tea
Cascara, meaning “husk” or “peel” in Spanish, is made from the outer fruit of coffee beans. While Costa Rica is famous for its coffee, cascara tea repurposes a byproduct of coffee production, reducing waste.
How Cascara Tea Is Produced
- Coffee cherries are harvested for their beans
- The outer fruit is carefully dried (sun-dried or mechanically)
- Dried husks are packaged as loose-leaf tea
Flavor Profile and Characteristics
Costa Rican cascara tea offers a complex taste experience:
| Flavor Note | Description | Comparable To |
|---|---|---|
| Primary | Tangy apple, prune, golden raisin | Fruit-infused black tea |
| Secondary | Raspberry, hibiscus-like tartness | Hibiscus tea |
| Finish | Subtle honey-like sweetness | Light oolong |
Caffeine Content Comparison
| Beverage | Caffeine per 8oz |
|---|---|
| Cascara Tea | 25-50mg |
| Coffee | 95-200mg |
| Black Tea | 40-70mg |
| Green Tea | 20-45mg |
Health Benefits of Costa Rican Tea
Research suggests cascara tea offers several advantages:
Nutritional Advantages
- Antioxidants: Higher than green tea in some studies
- Polyphenols: May support heart health
- Prebiotics: Supports gut microbiome
Potential Cognitive Benefits
The combination of caffeine and chlorogenic acid may:
- Enhance mental alertness without jitters
- Support memory function
- Provide sustained energy (no crash)
How to Brew the Perfect Cup
Traditional Hot Brew Method
- Use 9g cascara per 125ml water (about 2 tsp per 4oz)
- Heat water to 199°F (just below boiling)
- Steep 4 minutes for mild flavor, up to 12 for stronger taste
- Strain and enjoy
Cold Brew Variation
For a refreshing iced tea:
- Use 1.5x the amount of cascara
- Steep in cold water for 12-24 hours
- Add citrus slices or mint for enhancement
Where to Buy Authentic Costa Rican Tea
Key indicators of quality cascara:
| Feature | Premium Quality | Lower Quality |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Single-origin Costa Rica | Blended sources |
| Appearance | Whole dried husks | Powdery fragments |
| Aroma | Fruity, complex | Flat, musty |
Recommended Brands
- VILAR Single Origin: Amazon’s Choice with 4.1 stars
- Five Mountains: Organic, fair trade certified
- Local Costa Rican producers: Often available through specialty importers
Creative Ways to Enjoy Cascara Tea
Culinary Applications
- Cascara latte: Steamed milk + cascara concentrate
- Cocktail mixer: Pairs well with rum or mezcal
- Dessert syrup: Reduce brewed tea with sugar
Seasonal Serving Suggestions
| Season | Preparation | Additions |
|---|---|---|
| Summer | Cold brew with ice | Lime, mint |
| Winter | Hot toddy style | Cinnamon, honey |
Environmental Impact and Sustainability
Cascara tea represents an important sustainable practice:
- Utilizes coffee production byproducts
- Reduces agricultural waste
- Provides additional income for coffee farmers
According to World Coffee Research, up to 50% of coffee cherry biomass is typically discarded during processing. Cascara tea production helps address this issue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is cascara tea actually tea?
Technically no – true tea comes from Camellia sinensis. Cascara is an herbal infusion, but commonly called “tea” due to similar preparation.
Does it taste like coffee?
Surprisingly no. The flavor profile is fruity rather than roasted, though it contains coffee-related compounds.
Can I reuse cascara?
Yes – high quality cascara can often be steeped 2-3 times, with later infusions becoming more subtle.
Final Thoughts
Costa Rican cascara tea offers coffee lovers and tea enthusiasts alike a unique beverage that bridges both worlds. With its fruity complexity, moderate caffeine content, and sustainable production, it’s worth exploring for anyone seeking new flavors with health benefits.
For first-time buyers, we recommend starting with the VILAR Single Origin 4oz bag to experience authentic Costa Rican cascara at its best.
