Mazagran (Lemon Coffee) on ice makes a refreshing summer drink that is a cross between lemonade and espresso. It combines the tartness of lemons with the robust flavor of coffee in a way perfect for warm weather. Algerians started adding lemons to low-end coffee beans to improve their flavor and make the coffee less bitter. But as you can imagine, pricier coffee beans impart deliciousness to this drink.
Mazagran is often called the “original iced coffee.” It has a bittersweet history. It was conceived while more than 100 French soldiers were held captive in the Algerian town of Mazagran. It happened in the 1800s when Algeria fought for liberation from French colonialists. The French soldiers, accustomed to mixing brandy with their coffee, were offered no refreshment beyond pitchers of cold water and coffee syrup. The soldiers were soon rescued, but the soldiers returning to France continued to add water to their coffee and serve it in tall glasses from there on.
When you take a sip, the tartness of the lemonade hits your tongue first, followed by the smooth and slightly bitter taste of the brewed coffee. I think it’s a great combination when you’re in the mood for a refreshing drink.
Mazagran is a traditional French cold coffee drink. Ingredients include coffee, ice cubes, and sugar syrup. You can pour coffee syrup over the top and garnish the drink with lemon slices or mint leaves.
