shloboe boe
So Sweet
FRAPPÉS, the beloved iced beverages, have become a staple in cafes and restaurants worldwide. Known for their refreshing taste and versatility, frappés have a rich history that spans continents and centuries.
The term “frappé” comes from the French word “frapper,” meaning to slap, knock, or beat. This name aptly describes the process of making a frappé, which involves shaking, blending, or beating the ingredients until they become foamy.
The concept of frappé drinks dates back to 19th Century Europe, where various “café frappé” beverages were created. These early versions were often chilled with ice and sometimes resembled slushies or iced coffee.
However, the frappé as we know it today has its roots in Greece. In 1957, during the Thessaloniki International Fair, a representative of the Nestlé company named Giannis Dritsas was showcasing a new instant chocolate beverage for children. During a break, his employee, Dimitris Vakondios, wanted to make his usual instant coffee but couldn’t find any hot water. Instead, he mixed the instant coffee with cold water and ice cubes in a shaker. This improvised experiment resulted in the creation of the Greek frappé, which quickly gained popularity.
The Greek frappé is typically made with instant coffee, water, sugar, and sometimes milk. It is known for its thick, frothy layer on top, which is achieved by vigorously shaking or blending the ingredients. The drink became a hallmark of post-war outdoor Greek coffee culture and remains one of the most popular forms of coffee in Greece and Cyprus. Nestlé capitalised on the frappé’s popularity with intense marketing campaigns in the 1980s, solidifying the association between the brand and the drink. Today, the Greek frappé is often simply referred to as a “frappé” in Greece, although it was once commonly called a “Nescafé frappé.”
As the frappé gained international recognition, various adaptations emerged. In Bulgaria, for example, Coca-Cola is sometimes used in place of water, creating a unique twist on the traditional recipe. In Serbia, frappés are commonly made with milk or ice cream, adding a creamy texture to the drink. The frappé also inspired the creation of the Frappuccino, a trademarked name now owned by Starbucks. The Frappuccino was invented in Boston, Massachusetts, in 1992 by Andrew Frank, an employee of the Coffee Connection. The name combines ‘frappe,” the New England term for a thick milkshake with ice cream, and “cappuccino.” Although the Frappuccino is distinct from the Greek frappé, it shares the concept of a blended, iced coffee drink.
Today, frappés are enjoyed in various forms around the world. They can be made with a cocktail shaker, an electric milk frother, or a milkshake machine. The basic ingredients — instant coffee, sugar, and water — remain the same, but modern variations often include flavoured syrups, whipped cream, and other toppings to enhance the drink’s appeal. The frappé’s evolution reflects its adaptability and enduring popularity. From its humble beginnings as an improvised drink in Greece to its status as a global phenomenon, the frappé has come a long way. Its rich history and versatility continue to make it a favourite among coffee lovers everywhere.
The frappé’s journey from a simple mixture of instant coffee and cold water to a beloved iced beverage enjoyed worldwide is a testament to its enduring appeal. Whether you prefer the classic Greek version or a modern twist with flavoured syrups and toppings, the frappé offers a refreshing and delightful experience. As it continues to evolve, the frappé remains a symbol of innovation and creativity in the world of coffee.
Siphakeme .Mnindwa
