Vegetarian Means Vegan, Right?

Actually vegetarians tend to differ from what Vegans consider themselves to be. The exact reasons for why, evade me at the moment.

I eat plenty of vegetables but also enjoy eggs so I think this means I may be a vegetarian but I am not a vegan because eggs are not on their menu. I need to watch my calories and weight.

Veganism, if I may, seems to be more like a religion than just a healthy eating regime. I think the term is applied to not only eggs but even to wearing things that may have once been alive, like leather.

I have no feelings on this one way or another and think our life choices are just that, our life choices.

Wednesday, July 29, 2009

A Worldwide Assortment of Coffees

By Marc Warren

There is a wide assortment of coffee and coffee beans around the world. The pleasure is in trying to sample all of them.

The Colombian is, rightly so, world-renowned. The La Esperanza from Tolima, for example, is grown at almost 6,000 feet and the effect shows. High-toned with a delicate aroma and cherry-like it has hints of milk chocolate and pipe tobacco. Who knew such a mixture could actually taste wonderful?

The Supremo is also a well known Colombian gem. Piping hot it is rich with flavor of vanilla and chocolate. This sweet delight is undeniable.

From smooth to strong we move to Kona grown in Hawaii. You have your choice of dark or medium roast with the medium having a bit more of a sharp flavor. If you want the best of Kona you want an espresso, rich and strong and full of flavor.

For those who like the sharp taste in their coffee, the Tanzanian Peaberry found on the slopes of Mt. Kilimanjaro in Africa may be the choice for you. This is a very unique bean, not only because of its taste but also its appearance. It is a single oval more acidic than some beans which lends to its sharp flavor. Those who come to climb the famous M. Kilimanjaro can enjoy not only her sights but also her produce.

Another stop in Africa where you will find the finest blends of coffee- the Yirgacheffe region of Ethiopia. This coffee is often made with a bit of citrus and ginger, the perfect combination for a sweet and tangy treat.

The Jumboors and the Monsoon Malabar are two types of beans found in India. The latter delivers you the sweet flavor of apricot while the former has a raisin flavor as its sweetener. The environment of these beans gives them their uniqueness that must be sampled to be appreciated.

Continuing east to Indonesia we find ourselves in Sumatra, long known for the product from the Lake Toba region. A light roast, the cup is sweet and flowery. The original jasmine-like coffee flower has been retained to produce an astringent cup with cherry overtones.

Before leaving Indonesia satisfy your spicy craving. Head north to the territory where they add a touch of cedar and a bit of citrus to their coffee to make it something divine.

Robusta from Lampung, Vietnam adds to the variety. The method used to prepare these beans gives each cup a strong bite and rivals the sharp flavor of the Arabica blends.

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