Coffee drinker explores unusual caffeine replacements – and odd choices wins

Coffee drinkers have been searching for a caffeine replacement, and after suggestions from the internet, one in particular stuck out for its oddity and effectiveness

A coffee fan weary of their caffeine dependency initiated a search for alternatives that keep the dark, comforting essence of their habitual drink.

Within a Reddit thread brimming with options ranging from tea to hot chocolate, one suggestion resonated strongly among the r/Frugal community members. The inquirer, posting as @fyresflite, sought a coffee substitute that would provide a satisfying taste no matter the caffeine content.

The user discussed their quest for an alternative and said: "I've been trying to find an alternative to coffee that hits the same spot. I drink it with a lot of milk and sugar. I'm ideally looking for something just to give me something else to sip with less caffeine and acidity."

They continued: "Other subreddits have yielded hojicha, but that's not exactly cheap. Obviously tea is a classic for a reason but most don't quite hit the spot. I don't know why. I think it's the roastiness of the coffee. Does anyone get what I mean? Any ideas?

"I don't care how outlandish they are. I've been thinking of trying something with toasted rice powder? I've had rice teas before and they were pretty close."

Of all the novel recommendations, the one that stood out was roasted dandelion. A fellow Redditor advised: "Roasted dandelion is great for the roasty deep flavour of coffee, especially if you use milk and sugar. I got mine from Dandy blend."

Another user cautioned those with a gluten intolerance to examine the ingredients of the roasted dandelion blend closely. They explained: "Just a heads up for anyone who may be interested but has an allergy to gluten this product is barley derived, which is a gluten containing grain," in their message.

Several concurred with the original commenter's sentiments that tea doesn't quite hit the mark as a coffee substitute. Echoing this stance, one said: "No suggestions, but I know exactly what you mean about tea. For me it feels too thin and watery somehow? Which is odd, given that coffee is just as much water, but it doesn't feel like it."

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