No Normal Coffee is Perfect for the Outdoors | Photo Mike Hardaker Mountain Weekly News
Alright, coffee lovers that spend time outdoors, let’s talk about something that’s got my attention: No Normal Coffee Paste. Now, I’ve seen my share of camp coffee solutions, from instant packets that taste like dust to elaborate pour-over setups that are great for the ‘gram but a pain to pack. So, when I heard about a coffee paste in a tube, made in Switzerland no less, my ears perked up.
Swiss Innovations
The folks behind No Normal are apparently targeting backpackers and campers, and honestly, they might just be onto something. We all know the struggle: you’re out there, waking up in the woods and you want a decent cup of joe to kickstart the day. But usually, it involves hauling grounds, filters, a French press, or settling for something less than stellar.
First off, the packaging: a resealable aluminum tube. That’s a big win in my book. It’s lightweight, durable, and frankly, pretty clever. No more worrying about wet coffee grounds or flimsy packets tearing open in your pack. Just squeeze and go. No Normal Claims one tube yields up to 20 cups, which is solid value for space. And the fact that it can be stored unrefrigerated? Ding, ding, ding! That’s music to any backpacker / hunters ears.
How’s the Coffee?
Now, about the coffee itself. It’s 100% Fair Trade Arabica beans, which is a good start. And they’ve sweetened it with organic Swiss beet sugar. I’m usually a black coffee guy, but a little sweetness was a nice treat, especially when I’m miles from town searching for elk over rocky mountain terrain and craving a pick-me-up.
Ok try not to laugh but the first time I used this stuff, I simply squirted the paste into my mouth and went into the woods. I quickly chased it down with some water but it wasn’t until I got home that I realize it’s designed for use as a coffee, aka in hot water.
Forget those sugary gels, imagine a little dab of coffee paste on a cracker for a quick hit of flavor and caffeine. Ha
Why Backpacking Food Works?
Comparing it to something like the ReadyWise food we’ve reviewed before, which is all about convenience and sustenance in the backcountry, No Normal seems to fit right into that ethos. It’s about making your outdoor experience easier and more enjoyable, without compromising on quality or taste too much. It’s packable, easy to toss in the truck for a road trip, or even just keep in the pantry for those mornings when you’re running late and need a quick coffee fix at home.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
-
Ultimate Portability and Durability: The resealable aluminum tube is lightweight, durable, and eliminates concerns about wet grounds or torn packets. Its unrefrigerated storage also makes it ideal for extended trips.
-
Convenient & Quick Preparation: It’s super easy to use – just squeeze and add hot water. It also offers a quick caffeine hit even without water in a pinch.
Cons:
-
Initial Misconception of Use: As mentioned, the paste format might lead to initial confusion about its intended use (e.g., eating it straight vs. mixing with water), potentially leading to a less ideal first experience.
-
Sweetened Profile: While a pro for some, the inclusion of organic Swiss beet sugar might be a con for black coffee purists who prefer their coffee unsweetened or want to control their sugar intake.
Overall Impression
I’m genuinely intrigued by this No Normal Coffee Paste ($19.90). It addresses a real need for us outdoorsy folks and seems to do it in a thoughtful, high-quality way. I can see this becoming a staple in my camping kit, right alongside my trusty headlamp and my favorite dehydrated meals. It sounds like a no-brainer for anyone who values good coffee but also values practicality and efficiency when they’re out in the wild. I’m definitely looking forward to getting my hands on some and giving it a proper field test.
Related Food We Have Tested
