Mocha is an espresso-based drink with the milk, cocoa powder or chocolate syrup. Baristas decorate it with chocolate chips, whipped cream, cinnamon, cocoa, and marshmallows. But initially the drink was called differently.
For a long time, the only suppliers of coffee beans in the world were such countries as Ethiopia and Yemen. Arabica coffee from central Yemen was appreciated for its earthy and chocolate flavor. It was shipped to other countries from the port of Al-Moka (or Moka). That’s why in Europe, Arabica beans were known as “mocha beans”.
Coffee beans from Yemen have gained popularity in Italy. Their chocolate flavor brought the Italians the idea of combining coffee and chocolate. So in the 18th century, coffee houses in Turin began to make coffee from espresso, milk and melted chocolate or cocoa powder.
In 1892, the combination of coffee and chocolate was mentioned in the recipe of Betty Crocker, calling it “mocha”. So even more people learned about the drink, and they remembered it as “mocha”.
Most often, mocha is two shots of espresso mixed with completely melted chocolate and a large shot of frothed milk. The ingredients are put in layers. Firstly, espresso taken as a basis, affects the taste of the drink. It is best suited for coffee varieties with medium or low acidity. Experts believe that the flavor profile of an espresso for mocha should be full-bodied, with descriptors of nuts and chocolate.
The best thing about mocha is that its recipe can be customized. For example, a drink can be made with white, dark or milk chocolate. The texture of the coffee will depend on how you take the chocolate: syrup, powder, shavings, or melted.
Mocha may appeal to those who love sweet drinks and desserts.