Beverages

A beverage is any liquid for drinking apart from water. Drinks artificially prepared for human consumption are called beverages. Beverages are used for the following:

1. Refreshment and quenching the thirst e.g. coke, fruit juice
2. Stimulating the body in cold weather e.g. coffee, tea, vodka
3. Nourishing the body e.g milk drinks, egg flip

There are different types of beverages made to fulfill our cravings.

Soft drink is a non-alcoholic carbonated beverage that contains flavorings, sweeteners and other ingredients. It is usually commercially prepared and sold in bottles or cans. It may or may not contain calories depending on the sweetener used. Soft drinks are available in regular, diet, low calorie, caffeinated and caffeine-free drinks.

Alcoholic beverages are said to have negative effects on human health because of its alcohol content. However, the nutrients that each variety of these beverages contains should not be overlooked. Calories and carbohydrates can be found in all alcoholic beverages. Polyphenols found in red wine is known to be a good antioxidant. It acts within the body to reduce chemicals that damage cells or free radicals. Resveratrol, another powerful antioxidant in red wines, helps prevent damage to blood vessels and blood clots.

Fruit juices are not only tasty but also a great source of nutrients such as fiber, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Fruits can bring innumerable health benefits and the nutrient you can get from fruit juices depends on how natural it is. Nutrients contained in milk are essential for maintenance of good health. It is an excellent source of calcium and a good source of phosphorus, magnesium and other nutrients. Milk consumption is recommended because it promotes healthy balanced diet. Other types of beverages are tea, coffee, soy-based beverages, energy and sports drinks.

Other beverages are:

Milk and Dairy Based Beverages – Milk is an excellent source of calcium and good source of other essential nutrients, including vitamin D, potassium, vitamin B12, riboflavin, phosphorus and protein.

Energy drinks – The ingredients and nutrient contents of various brands of energy drinks varies considerably. Energy drinks provide carbohydrates and caffeine and some contain B vitamins, amino acids and herbal extracts

COFFEE

This is a breakfast beverage that contains caffeine (stimulant to the heart and nerves). Coffee has no food so it is wise to drink it with milk. It should be stored in a tightly covered container to preserve flavor.

PREPARATION OF INSTANT COFFEE

½ -1 teaspoon of instant coffee powder

1- cup boiling water

milk (as desired)

sugar ( to taste)

METHOD

1. Put the coffee powder into a cup
2. Add boiling water
3. Add hot milk
4. Add sugar to taste
5. Stir and serve

COCOA

Cocoa powder is made from cocoa beans. It contains a little carbohydrate and fat. Examples of cocoa beverage –

METHOD OF PREPARATION OF COCOA

1-2 tea spoon of cocoa powder

Boiling water

½ cup of milk

Sugar to taste

1. Place the cocoa powder into cup, gradually add boiling water
2. Add milk and sugar
3. stir well and serve

WASHING UP

After preparation and service, it is important to wash up utensils and put the kitchen in order. Guidelines are:

1. Get all materials necessary ready and within reach
2. Wash in hot soapy water
3. Rinse every item well in clean water
4. Put the items away in the proper places
5. Rinse the sink and wipe it dry
6. Wipe the table of counters used
7. Wash the dish cloth and put out to dry in the sun

ASSESSMENT

1. Cocoa powder is made from___
2. There are different types of beverages made to fulfill our cravings, they are?