Adding allspice and eggshells to ground coffee might seem like an unusual combination, but some people believe it can enhance the flavor of their coffee. Here's the rationale behind these practices:
Allspice: Allspice is a spice made from the dried berries of the Pimenta dioica plant. It gets its name because its flavor is reminiscent of a combination of several spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Some coffee enthusiasts add a pinch of ground allspice to their coffee grounds before brewing to impart a warm and aromatic flavor profile to the coffee. It can add depth and complexity to the brew, creating a unique and interesting taste experience.
Eggshells: Adding crushed eggshells to ground coffee is an old trick used to reduce the bitterness in coffee. The alkaline properties of the eggshells help to neutralize the acidic compounds in coffee, resulting in a smoother and milder cup. The eggshells must be well-cleaned and crushed into small pieces before adding them to the coffee grounds.
It's worth noting that while some people enjoy experimenting with various coffee additives, the use of allspice and eggshells is not as common as more traditional coffee flavorings like cinnamon, vanilla, or cocoa powder. Taste preferences can be highly subjective, so if you're curious, you might want to try it in a small batch and see if you enjoy the flavor combination. Ultimately, the best coffee is the one that suits your personal taste preferences.