Those who find ordinary coffee too stimulating, or otherwise unsuitable, may
be glad to know of some of the good cereal coffees now to be had. They
strongly resemble coffee in appearance and flavour, are very refreshing and
appetising, but are free from caffeine, and quite innocuous. They are
prepared by a certain roasting and grinding process from various grains, so
that their source is both simple and wholesome. Caramel Cereal,
prepared by the International Health Association, is one of the best, as I
believe it is one of the oldest, on the market. Sip It (London Nut Food
Co.) is also excellent; while yet another is Lapee, prepared by
Mapleton, Manchester. These, while similar in nature and composition,
differ somewhat in flavour, so that various tastes can be suited. They can
be prepared as ordinary coffee, but are, I think, better to have a few
minutes' boiling. Full directions are, however, given with each. Mapleton
has recently added Banana Coffee and Nut Coffee--both very good.
Fruit Syrups, Wine Essences, &c.,
belong to a different order of beverages. Those of Messrs Pattinson
are of undoubted excellence. Their Botanic Beer, Ginger Beer Essence, Fruit
Syrups--Raspberry, Black Currant, &c.--are all specially good. They are,
besides, most useful in the store cupboard. Diluted at discretion, they may
be used in the composition of trifles, mince-meat, puddings, &c., in place
of the Sherry or other wines which are now nearly as out of date as they
deserve to be, and will certainly find no place in the menage of the
"Reform" housekeeper.