While Arabica coffee is typically the coffee of choice, there are always exceptions to every rule. One such exception when it comes to coffee is the Robusta Kapi Royal of India. Southern India grows some of the world's best coffee (at least according to the locals). They also grow three specialty coffees. Those specialty coffees are Monsoon Malabar, Mysore Nugget Extra Bold, and Robusta Kapi Royal.

While the first two are Arabica coffees the robusta is by far the most sought after coffee in India. Indian coffee is grown in spice plantations and as such has a hint of spice in every cup. Another coffee delight found only in South India is Madras Filter Coffee. This particular coffee is a very sweet, milky coffee that is made from dark roasted beans and chicory.

Madras Filter Coffee (kaapi) is prepared with beans that are freshly roasted and ground fairly course. It is nearly impossible to walk through any residential neighborhood in southern India on any given morning without finding the aroma of fresh coffee being brewed.

The thing to note about this particular coffee is the rather high level of chicory. Of course if you've read my other writings you'll know that chicory is a personal favorite for me. It's also a rather inexpensive way to add flavor to your coffee drinking pleasure. Combine the chicory with the spicy notes that South Indian coffee tends to have, combine it with copious amounts of frothy milk and you have coffee drinking nirvana. This coffee is also particularly addictive for those who find it to their liking immediately and even to those who take a few cups in order to acquire the taste for this delightful brew.

The typical way of preparing Madras Filter Coffee is by boiling the milk and adding a tablespoon of sugar along with your desired amount of sugar. Despite the appearance this is powerful coffee and that little dab should do you if you know what I mean. This is definitely one coffee drink you should try if you ever have the chance.

The preparation of this particular coffee is different than almost any other. The Madras coffee filter has a sieve press, two compartments that are cylindrical in shape, and is typically made of stainless steel. The coffee grounds (remember not to grind them too fine) are then poured into the upper compartment where they are compressed by the sieve press. Boiling water is then poured over it and in time the delicious brew will begin to pool in the lower half. You mix the thick concoction with hot milk and sugar (be generous here) and are well on your way to a great start for your day.

After only a few tastes you are likely to find that this great concoction will become your drink of choice when the opportunity presents itself. You may also find yourself looking for opportunities to allow this particular choice. The strong chicory flavor along with the hint of spice and sweetness of the milk have made this drink a popular reminder of the true tastes of South India.