Coffee is the original plant-based beverage, made from beans that contain polyphenols, plant-based compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds are believed to help prevent the cellular damage and inflammation that has been associated with many chronic diseases, according to a review published in the Journal of Antioxidants. Coffee also contains small amounts of vitamins and minerals, like riboflavin, niacin, and magnesium, potassium and manganese, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). And then there’s caffeine. The chemical stimulant in coffee blocks receptors in the brain that cause fatigue and stimulates the central nervous system to increase alertness, improve concentration, and increase energy levels, according to MedlinePlus. Although drinking a cup of coffee has many benefits and does count towards meeting your daily fluid needs, it shouldn’t replace all the fluid in your diet. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans (PDF) recommends it is safe to consume between three to five cups of coffee per day, with a maximum intake of 400 milligrams of caffeine per day. But you don’t have to be a coffee drinker to reap its benefits. You can explore the culinary versatility coffee has to offer, too. When added to baked goods or desserts, coffee can intensify the flavor of chocolate. Coffee grounds can be used as a savory rub and tenderizer for meats, thanks to their acidity, according to Texas A&M University. Brewed coffee also pairs well with smoky flavors, such as those found in barbecue sauce and chili. So try your next hit of java a new way, with one of these five recipes that showcase the many different ways to use coffee in the kitchen.
