Coffee is more than a beverage—it’s a global commodity with deep cultural roots and a heavy ecological footprint.
In this workshop, we’ll explore what it means to “escape” coffee: not to reject it outright, but to critically examine its impact and creatively explore alternatives that are better suited to our local climate and ecosystems.
Together, we will:
- Investigate the global coffee trade: its colonial history, current production chains, and the labor, land, and water resources it consumes.
- Examine the ecological cost of coffee farming and transport in a time of climate urgency.
- Explore European alternatives inspired by historical and contemporary brews: think roasted chicory, barley, acorns, dandelion roots, and fermented grains—once staples before coffee took over.
- Taste and compare: using traditional brewing techniques (from espresso to moka pot to French press), we’ll explore how these alternatives can match or surprise the depth, bitterness, and aroma of coffee.
- Reclaim taste rituals: from morning routines to café culture, we’ll look at how our habits shape not just flavor but economic and ecological relationships. This is a degustation workshop, so come ready to taste, reflect, and discuss. Whether you're looking for a full replacement or simply want to diversify your brew shelf, this event offers a rich journey into local, sustainable sipping.
🎟 How to Escape Coffee
A Degustation Workshop Exploring Alternatives Through Heritage and Ecology
🗓 Sunday, October 26th
🕑 14:00 – 16:00
📍 Fermenthings, Brussels
💶 €30 per person
You may also like the following events from Fermenthings:
- This Sunday, 3rd August, 02:00 pm, WORKSHOP FERMENTED HOT SAUCES (ENG / NL / FR) in Koekelberg
- This September, 25th September, 07:00 pm, A Saké & Tsukemono Tasting- Exploring Balance Through Japanese Brewing & Pickling Traditions in Koekelberg
- This September, 30th September, 07:00 pm, What makes a great Hot Dog? - A Historical Fermentation Workshop on Ketchup, Mustard & Relish in Koekelberg
Also check out other
Workshops in Koekelberg.
