Not all coffees are created equal, but that’s absolutely okay. There are quite a number of ways to replace coffee (that is if you’re really looking to replace it), and that amount increases every day. Some sound a little out there, some are quite unique, but all of them are delicious. The new wave of trending beverages comes in the form of alternative coffees, which have coffee’s energizing effects but come in an assortment of flavors and bases.

We’ve found that mushrooms, unconventional teas, and Teeccino make for delicious substitute coffee options. Keep reading below to find out which non-coffee alternative is right for you! We’ve also included some coffee recipes you could make at home from our Food Monster App!

1. Matcha

Matcha Latte With Coconut Milk

Matcha green tea has gained a faithful legion of devoted followers. Every day, an increasing number of people are constantly jumping on this trend. One of the most appealing points about matcha is the fact that it can be treated as a healthy, and nutritious coffee substitute. The increased energy from coffee is short-lived, but matcha caffeine is more subtle and released through the body at a slower pace because of the presence of the L-theanine phytonutrient.

It can increase metabolism, keep you alert for longer amounts of time and detoxify your body. It also tastes fantastic as a latte, mixed into smoothies and mixed into coffee if you can’t cut it out just yet. Try this Jade Leaf Matcha Green Tea Powder so you can make your own at home. Then try this Mint Matcha Latte, this Matcha Latte With Coconut Milk or this summer-ready Iced Matcha Green Tea Frappé With Coconut Whip!

2. Mushroom

Chocolate Reishi Latte

Mushroom Coffee contains mushroom powders, like Cordyceps, lions mane, chaga, and dried reishi, and brilliantly flavors a morning beverage. Earthy flavors create a tasty juxtaposition in combination with coffee, or by itself. It tastes best brewed extra strong and tastes amazing iced with a splash of coconut milk. Reishi Tea is actually made of dried reishi mushrooms, which have been used in Chinese medicine for decades, instead of traditional tea leaves. This Caffeine Free Reishi Detox tea is organic, provides antioxidants and eliminates toxins.

Be aware that if you aren’t drinking the decaf versions of mushroom beverages and teas, a single dose has the same amount of caffeine as two regular cups of coffee. Try this Chocolate Reishi Latte or this Hot Chocolate With Maca and Tonic Herbs.

3. Dandelion Tea

Iced Dandelion Latte

Roasted dandelion root makes a pleasant beverage that can be consumed daily. Add delicious dandelion root tincture or powdered extract to hot water, or infuse pieces of dried root in boiled water. Dandelion root may promote digestion and reduce stomach pain! It also flushes toxins from the system and is super nutrient rich. There are plenty of recipes and ingredients to mix and match dandelion tea with and it’s pretty tasty, too. Dandy Blend is a top-rated dandelion herbal beverage, so it’s a safe bet that you’ll enjoy this one!

Once you’ve picked your brand, make some at home! Try this Iced Dandelion Latte!

4. Barley Coffee

Shutterstock

Teeccino, a popular variation of barley coffee, has been gaining popularity as a coffee alternative. Essentially, barely coffee has no caffeine, is low in acidity, and tastes similar to coffee. It’s not identical in taste, but after drinking it for a while, the flavor will grow on you. Teeccino is great for the coffee drinker that isn’t too keen on adjusting morning routines. It’s made of roasted, grounded carob, barley, chicory and Ramon seeds. Its taste is dark, rich and similar to a French roast.

5. Black Tea

Earl Grey Rose Nectar

Black tea is truly another viable wake-up beverage. It has plenty of health benefits like antioxidants, vitamins and also provides a hit of caffeine. It increases heart health, relieves a stressed stomach and lowers stress hormones. If you notice coffee gives you enhanced anxiety, opt for black tea instead. Brew a quick cup before leaving for work for a relaxed vibe, or drink it before bed and help you sleep, stress-free.

Try this top-rated Choice Organic Teas Black Tea. Or, you can make this Earl Grey Rose Nectar!

If you enjoy recipes like this, we highly recommend downloading the Food Monster App, it’s available for both Android and iPhone and has free and paid versions. The app is loaded with thousands of allergy-friendly & vegan recipes/cooking tips, has hundreds of search filters and features like bookmarking, meal plans and more! The app shows you how having diet/health/food preferences can be full of delicious abundance rather than restrictions!

Lead image source: Shutterstock