Coffee soup is a unique dish made from warm milk, instant coffee, and sugar, served with saltine crackers and often topped with meat or fish, and is a beloved staple in some Amish communities.
Takeways• Coffee soup features warm milk, instant coffee, and sugar.
• Served with saltine crackers and often topped with meat or fish.
• A surprising and comforting dish, especially for those familiar with the tradition.
Coffee soup, a traditional Amish dish, combines warm milk, a hint of instant coffee, and sugar, served with saltine crackers. While its ingredients might seem unusual, especially the addition of various meats or fish, it is considered a comforting and delicious meal by those who grew up eating it. The dish is noted for being surprisingly better than it sounds or looks, provided the coffee isn't too strong.
Coffee Soup Recipe
• 00:00:11 Coffee soup is prepared by warming milk until a 'skin' forms on top, then removing it from heat and stirring in a small amount of instant coffee and sugar. Crucially, the coffee should be used sparingly to prevent an overly strong flavor. The soup is typically served in a plate with saltine crackers, which can be added before or after the milk, depending on preference.
Serving Suggestions
• 00:01:14 A key component of coffee soup is the addition of meat, such as sausage or fish, placed on top of the soup and crackers, which significantly enhances the flavor and makes the dish more satisfying. Some people also add cottage cheese, though this is not a universally accepted topping. The unique combination of ingredients, particularly with meat, contributes to its appeal and distinguishes it as a comforting, traditional meal for those accustomed to it.