What Is Direct Trade Coffee—and Why It Matters

At Lavanta Coffee, we believe your morning cup should taste good *and* do good. That’s why we’re committed to sourcing our beans through direct trade relationships that prioritize transparency, fair pricing, and sustainability. But what is direct trade, and how does it differ from fair trade or conventional sourcing?

Let’s break it down.

What Is Direct Trade Coffee?

Direct trade is when coffee roasters like Lavanta build long-term, direct relationships with the farmers who grow our beans—no middlemen, no questionable pricing chains. We work closely with producers to ensure high quality, ethical practices, and fair compensation. It allows us to create meaningful, mutually beneficial partnerships rooted in trust and transparency.

Why It Matters to Us (and You)

  • Better Pay for Farmers
    Farmers receive a higher premium than traditional markets.
  • Higher Quality Coffee
    We get first pick of the best beans—often from single-origin lots.
  • Sustainability & Innovation
    Many of our partner farms use organic or regenerative practices that support both the land and the people working it.
  • Empowering Women
    We proudly support women-owned farms, helping create opportunities in rural communities and breaking generational cycles.

Lavanta in Action

Our partnerships span across Africa, South America, and Central America—working with farms whose values align with ours. From the highlands of Guatemala to the volcanic soil of Ethiopia, each bean has a story—and when you buy Lavanta, you’re part of it. Every time you brew a cup, you’re not just tasting exceptional coffee—you’re helping create a more sustainable, equitable industry.

Coffee should be as honest as it is flavorful. That’s why direct trade is more than a label—it’s a promise. A promise to our farmers, to our customers, and to the future of coffee.

👉 Browse Our Ethically Sourced Collection at LavantaCoffee.com

Searching for the perfect cup? Allow us to assist.

Our curated collection of coffees is crafted for discerning tastes — but choosing the ideal match can still be a journey. Click Need help finding the perfect coffee? to receive personalized recommendations from our team. Whether you seek bold intensity or a delicate balance, we’re here to guide you to your perfect brew.

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Need coffee now? Email info@lavantacoffee.com or call (862) 881-4683. We’ve got you covered!

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Ingredients

For the Pork
  • 5 lbs pork butt or shoulder (trimmed and cut into 2 pieces)
  • Salt & pepper (to taste, rub all over pork)
  • 4–5 cloves garlic
  • 1 white onion, sliced

For the Sauce

  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 cup strong brewed coffee ☕
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp paprika
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  •  

Directions

  • In a small bowl, mix all sauce ingredients until combined.
  • Layer the bottom of your crockpot with the sliced onions and garlic.
  • Place the seasoned pork on top of the onion and garlic layer.
  • Pour the prepared sauce over the pork.
  • Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours, until the pork is fork-tender.
  • Remove the pork and shred with two forks.

Optional

For a thicker sauce, transfer it to a pot and simmer on the stove for 10 minutes. Pour the thickened sauce over the shredded pork before serving.
Enjoy this tender, flavorful dish with your favorite sides or piled high on a sandwich bun! 🤤

Here’s how to whip it up:

Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup whole milk 🥛
  • 3 tbsp sugar
  • 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder 🍫
  • 1 cup freshly brewed espresso or strong coffee ☕
  • 1 candy cane (or 1/4 tsp peppermint extract)
  • 1/4 tsp vanilla extract

Directions

  1. In a small saucepan, combine milk, cocoa powder, and sugar.
  2. Heat gently until small bubbles form around the edges.
  3. Stir in your coffee, vanilla extract, and half of the candy cane (or peppermint extract). Remove from heat.
    Pour into your favorite mug, top with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and garnish with the other half of the candy cane.

✨ Pro tip: Sip by a window and watch the snow fall for maximum cozy vibes!

How to Make Cold Brew Coffee at Home

Whether you’re just getting started or refining your technique, this guide will walk you through making smooth, delicious cold brew coffee right in your kitchen.

Why Make Cold Brew at Home?

  • Smoother, less acidic taste
  • Highlights the natural sweetness of beans
  • Customizable strength and flavors
  • Longer shelf life (up to 2 weeks in the fridge)
  • Easy to make in batches for convenience

What Is Cold Brew?

Cold brew is not the same as iced coffee. Here’s the difference:

  • Iced Coffee: Brewed hot, then poured over ice. Quick and bright, but more acidic.
  • Cold Brew: Made by steeping coarsely ground beans in cold water for 12–24 hours. The result? A smooth, low-acid, subtly sweet coffee concentrate.

What You’ll Need

Basic equipment:

  • Coarsely ground coffee
  • Cold or room temperature water
  • Jar (e.g., mason jar),
  • French press, or cold brew maker
  • Fine-mesh strainer or coffee filter

Optional:

  • Spoon for stirring
  • Pitcher or bottle for storage

How to Make Cold Brew Coffee at Home

Method 1: Mason Jar + Strainer

  • Ratio: 1 cup coffee (113g) to 4 cups water
  • Add grounds to jar, pour in water, and stir
  • Cover and let steep at room temperature
    for 12–24 hours
  • Strain through a fine-mesh sieve (use a coffee filter for finer clarity)
  • Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks
  • Serve diluted to taste with water, milk, or sweetener over ice

Method 2: French Press or Cold Brew Maker

  • Use same 1:4 coffee-to-water ratio
  • Stir to saturate grounds
  • Steep in fridge for 12–24 hours
  • Press plunger or follow device’s straining instructions
  • Store concentrate in the fridge
  • Dilute and serve as desired

Flavor Ideas & Customizations

Try infusing or enhancing your cold brew with:

  • Spices: Cinnamon sticks, cardamom, vanilla beans
  • Sweeteners: Caramel, hazelnut, or flavored syrups (prefer liquid sweeteners for better mixing)
  • Milk options: Almond, oat, coconut, or traditional milk
  • Fruits: Citrus zest, berries, or apple slices for a refreshing twist

Serving Tips

Cold brew is not the same as iced coffee. Here’s the difference:

  • Coffee Ice Cubes: Freeze leftover cold brew in ice trays to avoid watering down your drink
  • Glass or Stainless Steel Tumblers: Keep your brew colder, longer—and avoid plastic aftertaste

Storage Tips

  • Keep cold brew in an airtight container in the refrigerator
  • Avoid storing near strong-smelling foods to prevent flavor contamination
  • Lasts up to 2 weeks if kept properly

Enjoy crafting your own cold brew at home—smooth, simple, and exactly how you like it.