Wake up with dandelion coffee

Shanica Blair, Gleaner Writer

Most Jamaicans start their morning with something warm - coffee or tea. But how about a cup of dandelion coffee? The small family-owned business; Sunburst Products in Manchester, has been making strides, specialising in supplying annatto that has been on the decline for a few generations now, and Dandelion Coffee made from the seeds of the dandelion plant, in much the same way as you would coffee-roasting and grounding.

The end result is a smooth-tasting coffee with the full flavour of rich, fragrant coffee without the caffeine. The coffee is made without the use of chemicals or preservatives and is 100% natural. Grown on mountainous terrain in Manchester, the beans are solar-dried, roasted and grounded. "Sunburst Products grow their Dandelion Coffee in perfect growing conditions by not using fertilisers or preservatives, ensuring that their product is 100% natural," marketing director of Sunburst Products Cleon Roberts told Food of the family-owned business.

Dandelion Coffee has been part of Jamaican culture for generations, and is reputed for its health benefits, Dandelion Coffee can be used as a remedy for haemorrhoids, gout, diabetes, eczema, rheumatism, as a bowel cleanser and a diuretic. Its medicinal use dates back to the 10th century when it was used extensively by Arab physicians. Roberts reveals that the company owner can remember his grandfather drinking Dandelion Coffee in his village in Manchester. Today, the tradition continues by Sunburst Products which is available for you and all to enjoy; available at Loshusan Supermarket, The Coffee Shop (Sangster's International Airport), Two Hampers and a Mule (Norman Manley International Airport), Healthy Natural, Fit for Life, Health and Nutrition (Sovereign Centre), and The Coffee Shop (Falmouth Pier) .

Directions for use

For best results, boil the Dandelion Coffee in a saucepan.

(1) Add two heaped tablespoons of Dandelion Coffee to 300ml of water.

(2) Boil for 3-5 minutes, stirring constantly.

(3) Strain and add milk or sweeten to taste.

Preparation by Filter

1. Add 2 tablespoons of Dandelion Coffee for every 170ml (6oz) cup of hot water (serves one person).

2. Pour the 170ml (6oz) cup of hot water into the canister, then filter the coffee.

3. Add milk or sweeten to taste.

Dandelion coffee can be stored in the fridge for optional use when cold.