Rhode Island Republican

A good substitute for COFFEE.

Frugality, in domestic expenses, is a virtue, which ought to be practiced by the manager of every family; but more particularly, at this inclement season, when commerce stagnates in our ports, the mechanic is thrown out of employment and the necessaries of life at so high a price as to be obtained only with the greatest difficulty, and when the poor are precluded altogether from many of them. Every discovery, therefore, that has a tendency to ameliorate the condition of the poor and the labourer, and add to their comforts, is of value, and ought to obtain public attention.

The article, coffee, a few years back was looked upon as a luxury, but is now considered, from the great use made of it, as one of the necessaries of life. The price is now nearly double what it was in the year '93, & continues to rise: a substitute for coffee would, therefore, be a great desideratum to society—Many articles have been tried, but, not answering the purpose, have been relinquished.

The potatoe is found to resemble coffee in taste, smell and colour more than any substitute that has been tried, few persons can distinguish one from the other; besides which it possesses other properties and circumstances which ought to recommend it to general use. It is one of our cheapest and most plentiful vegetables; besides its cheapness, it may be obtained in all places and in any quantity, nor are we dependent on foreign commerce for it. This substitute for coffee sits light on the stomach, is nourishing and easy of digestion and does not irritate the nerves of weak persons or cause vigilance.

The following is the mode of preparing it:

Wash raw potatoes clean, cut them into small square pieces of about the size of a hazel nut, put them into a broad dish or pan, set them in a temperate stove, or in an oven after the bread is drawn, stir them frequently to prevent them from sticking together, in order that they may dry regularly: When they are perfectly dry, put them into a dry bag or box secure, and they will keep for any length of time.

When they are to be used they must be roasted in the same manner as coffee, and ground in a mill or reduced to powder in a mortar. Small potatoes are as good as large ones---the potatoes generally considered of the worst kind, are better than the mealy, and the skins & parings are best of all.

It is hoped none will prejudge this recommendation—a trial will confirm what may appear to some to be doubtful.

[Aur.