The evolution of coffee culture in the Sultanate
In the global surge of social media trends, one stands out with a steaming cup in hand – the mesmerising world of coffee and the artistry of being a barista. Gone are the days when coffee was just a routine sip in the morning or a midday energy boost; it has gracefully transformed into a cultural sensation, especially embraced by the vibrant younger generation.
Amidst the surge of coffee appreciation riding the waves of social media trends, the once humble act of sipping a cuppa has metamorphosed into a viral sensation.
In this era of likes and clicks, coffee grinding and brewing have transcended routine to become a bona fide art form. This evolution is not just a trend; it’s a fusion of science and skill, ardently championed by the enthusiastic youth.
The perpetual allure of mastering the barista’s craft comes to life in the ‘A Day Barista Coffee Basic Workshop’. This event serves as a canvas where aspiring youths from Belait District and beyond paint their passion for barista art onto the canvas of grinding and brewing coffee beans.
Hosted by the Belait District Branch of the Youth and Sports Department, Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, the workshop featured a seasoned barista and Co-Founder of the charming Bicara Coffee in Seria, Mohd Izzat bin Ismail, sharing insights on the art of grinding and brewing coffee.
I had the privilege of sitting down with him to explore further into this growing enthusiasm among the youth for the world of coffee appreciation.
BEYOND THE MORNING SIP
“This trend’s silver lining is the surge of specialty coffee shops. As folks delve into the nuances of coffee beans, grinding techniques, and brewing methods, a more refined coffee culture blossoms.
“Consumers are on a quest for flavours that align with their unique tastes and preferences,” he explained.
Gone are the days when coffee was merely a morning ritual or an easy start to the day. Now, there’s an appreciation for the intricate journey – from cultivating coffee beans to the personal touch each barista infuses into grinding and brewing.
“People today don’t just casually sip coffee; they’re mindful of the craftsmanship involved.
“Unlike the past, where coffee was downed without a second thought, now, people keenly perceive the distinct tastes and aromas of beans sourced from different regions.”
Mohd Izzat highlighted that this heightened awareness fosters a vibrant coffee community, eager to exchange thoughts and preferences. Whether it is local coffee havens or the digital realms of Instagram and TikTok, enthusiasts unite to share their passion.
On social media, these platforms transform into virtual galleries of creativity, showcasing mesmerising videos featuring latte art, pour-over intricacies, and the captivating theatrics of coffee-making.
Each post becomes a visual symphony, a celebration of a generation’s dedication to elevating coffee consumption into a true art form.
SOCIAL STEEP
One ambitious young enthusiast diving into the world of barista skills is Muhammad Ryyan Isaac bin Edy Asmyra.
He vividly recalls the allure of the intricate artistry involved in grinding and brewing coffee, a fascination ignited through the realms of social media.
“Social platforms like Instagram and TikTok opened the door to the fascinating trends of coffee art, latte foams, and the intriguing coffee paraphernalia wielded by skilled baristas,” he shared.
Expressing his curiosity further, Ryyan pointed out that the evolution of coffee equipment, prominently featured on social media, has fuelled his desire to reconnoitre the dominion of being a barista. These platforms not only serve as stages for showcasing barista skills but also as hubs for the exchange of valuable knowledge.
While the conventional image of a barista might be confined to the act of brewing coffee, forward-thinking youths like Ryyan believe the role extends far beyond when amplified by social media.
“The biggest misconception (about being a barista) is that it’s just about making coffee.
“It’s so much more – a canvas for creative expression through coffee art and a platform to captivate a broader audience by showcasing diverse coffee art techniques as a barista,” he asserted.
Reflecting on his initial foray into the barista world through workshops, Ryyan underlined the insightful lessons and enjoyable experiences gained.
Learning alongside passionate friends and like-minded youths, all sharing the same fervour for coffee, made the journey even more exhilarating.
SIP-BY-SIP DEDICATION
As the younger generation becomes increasingly enamoured with the intricate craft of coffee brewing, Mohd Izzat envisions an accelerated coffee revolution powered by accessible barista skills and knowledge.
“In today’s digital age, soaking up information about brewing coffee is a breeze through social media. Armed with this foundation, a gentle nudge is all it takes to seamlessly translate that knowledge into hands-on skills – mastering the art of grinding and blending coffee beans.
“It’s a pathway to a deeper appreciation for the intricate artistry behind brewing coffee,” noted Mohd Izzat.
In a world captivated by the art and science of coffee, the fervour and drive of the youth stand as the driving force shaping the future of this cherished beverage.
Both coffee itself and the budding baristas of the younger generation are poised to evolve into symbols of unwavering dedication, celebrating life’s finer moments, one satisfying sip at a time. – Daniel Lim
