Have you ever tried linden coffee? The coffee is made from roasted and ground seeds from the linden tree (also called tilia or lime tree).
It’s very aromatic with a nice with a nice herbal flavour.
HOW TO MAKE LINDEN COFFEE
The linden seeds are ready to pick in July: gather a few flowers and seeds together for extra flavour. The process is laborious because it takes a long time to collect enough raw material.
Linden seeds don’t contain caffeine and linden in general has a calming effect, can reduce bloating and contains antioxidants.
Separate the seeds from their stems and any leaves. Put the seeds on a baking tray and roast them gently at 150 degrees Celsius for 20 minutes until they acquire a nice golden colour.
Once cooled, grind the seeds in a spice grinder or blender. The yield will be quite low so several foraging trips will be needed.
Add 2-3 teaspoons of ground linden to hot water and let it infuse (a cafetiere is ideal).
Filter the liquid and add milk and sugar to taste. Suggestion: add a pinch of cinnamon for extra perfume and depth of flavour.
The coffee has a nice aroma and it is very mild, not bitter, with hints of hazelnut.