master-cooks | The Rare Coffee Variety That's Literally Spit Out By Monkeys

In the lush forests of India, a unique and rare coffee variety is gaining attention for its unusual production process involving monkeys. Known as monkey coffee, this specialty brew is made from coffee beans that have been chewed and spat out by Rhesus monkeys. These primates are drawn to the sweet, ripe coffee cherries, choosing only the best fruits to munch on. As they chew, the monkeys discard the beans, which are then collected by local farmers. The beans undergo a natural fermentation process in the monkeys' saliva, contributing to a distinctive flavor profile that is both smooth and aromatic. The rarity of monkey coffee, coupled with its labor-intensive collection process, makes it a sought-after delicacy among coffee connoisseurs. Enthusiasts describe its taste as having a unique blend of fruity and nutty notes, with a hint of natural sweetness that sets it apart from other coffee varieties. Despite its novelty, this coffee is part of a broader trend of animal-processed coffees, such as the famous civet coffee from Southeast Asia. As consumers become more adventurous in their coffee choices, monkey coffee offers an exotic and sustainable option, providing local communities with a valuable source of income while promoting biodiversity conservation.

Making monkey coffee and how to drink it

Monkey parchment coffee is sourced from coffee farms in India and Taiwan, often situated near forests where monkeys indulge in the coffee plants. While these creatures were once considered pests, perceptions shifted in the early 2000s when farmers started collecting the chewed coffee beans and selling them.

Formosan and rhesus monkeys are particularly attracted to ripe coffee cherries, which they chew and then spit out. It is believed that the monkeys instinctively select the best cherries. Workers gather these ripe, chewed beans, wash, and process them. Once dried, the beans take on a greyish tint, distinguishing them from the green coffee beans most people recognize. After drying, they can be roasted just like any other coffee beans.

What sets monkey coffee apart is that the enzymes in the monkeys' saliva break down the ripe beans, resulting in a sweeter and more complex flavor profile. This unique process imparts natural notes of vanilla, citrus, and chocolate. If you’re fortunate enough to find monkey coffee, it’s essential to learn how to properly enjoy it. Instead of using a standard drip machine, opt for a French press or moka pot to brew a richer, more flavorful cup that truly highlights these exceptional beans.

Buying and storing monkey coffee

Monkey parchment coffee is rare and hard to find due to its unpredictable yield, limited number of specialized farms, and the small quantities they can harvest (often less than 100 pounds). Environmental factors can further reduce supply, making it a challenge for many to acquire a bag. While some online retailers may occasionally stock monkey parchment coffee, consistently purchasing it outside of India and Taiwan can be difficult due to its scarcity.

Like all coffee varieties, proper storage of monkey coffee is crucial once you have it. Avoid keeping it in the original bag, as this can expose the beans to air and temperature fluctuations, leading to a loss of flavor. Instead, store your beans in an airtight container in a cool, dry location. If your coffee comes in a resealable bag with a vent, it can be stored as is, as these bags are designed to maintain freshness.

However, never refrigerate or freeze monkey coffee, as the beans are sensitive to humidity and moisture. If your coffee isn't in a stay-fresh bag, consider investing in a ceramic or metal container with a vacuum-sealing lid to keep the beans fresh. You certainly want to preserve the unique flavor of these exceptional beans.

The Rare Coffee Variety That's Literally Spit Out By Monkeys

Making monkey coffee and how to drink it

Buying and storing monkey coffee

Recommended

Next up