Coffee has an interesting history, starting from being a bean to becoming a refreshing brew that we enjoy each morning. Its history is full of tradition, passion, and invention. It all starts with coffee cherries which are carefully developed and in the end, it becomes an excellent craftsmanship of brewing the coffee beans. Now, let’s start exploring the beautiful journey of coffee.
Cultivating and Reaping the Coffee Beans
It all started in the beautiful landscapes of coffee farms. Two of the most popular types of coffee plants are Robusta and Arabica coffee trees, which can survive in tropical climates. The favorable conditions of Brazil, Colombia, and Ethiopia has helped the development of Robusta and Arabica coffee plants. These coffee cherries are cared for by the farmers, protecting them until such time that they become mature.
As the cherry matures, they will be harvested. This is a critical stage since it requires accuracy when harvesting cherries, making sure that they are at the peak of their maturity. Harvesting can either be done by machine or by hand. During this time, there are chances that the quality of the coffee bean can be affected, which is the foundation for what lies ahead.
Transforming the Cherry to Coffee Bean
Once harvesting is done, the next step is to process the cherries, wherein the beans will be extracted from within. The method used for processing the coffee can likely affect its flavor. The two common processes that are being used are wet processing and dry processing.
So, how is the process done? The dry processing method will be used for drying up the cherries. They will be exposed to the sun to keep them dry. To make sure that drying is done in uniform, they will be turned over most often. When done, a machine will collect them all so that the beans inside can be taken out. The wet processing is done by pulping the cherries to get rid of their peel.
Afterward, the cherries will be fermented to take out the mucilage. Finally, the beans will be dried up in the sun. Each method instills a unique characteristic to the beans, which is used as the foundation of the different varieties of flavor.
How Roasting Can Transform Its Flavor
The coffee’s character will be fabricated through the roasting process. Green coffee beans will be exposed to heat and will be transformed into fragrant brown beans. It is important that this process should be done by expert roasters only.
There are different profiles, from dark to light, and each of them exposes a unique flavor. Dark roasts reveal powerful, strong flavors with a more distinct body. On the other hand, light roasts retain the natural flavor of coffee beans and radiate fresh acidity. Also, the natural sweetness of the beans will be retained in light roasts.
Grinding And Brewing the Beans
Before the coffee beans are brewed, they will be ground first. The grind size, which can vary from extremely fine to extremely coarse, will depend on the brewing technique, which can either be a drip coffee maker, an espresso machine, or a French press.
The brewing process is considered as the peak of coffee’s journey since this is where the magic happens. The ground coffee will be transformed into an amazing brew. The brewing process plays an important role in coffee creativity. It is the job of the brewmaster to extract the harmony of flavors hidden in each coffee bean.
This can be achieved by meticulously choosing the temperature of the water, the procedure to use as well as the amount of time needed for the coffee to elevate. From being a bean to finally brewing, coffee has an incredible journey that is made with dedication and tradition.
How to Select the Right Brew Method
Nowadays, there are a variety of ways to make your own coffee at home, which can be very overwhelming. To make it simpler for you, we’re going to break down some of the common methods of making coffee. By recognizing the type of coffee that you desire as well as the work that needs to be done, you’ll be able to find your way towards your preferred brewing method.
How Does Each Coffee Brewing Method Differ?
Making your coffee requires water, ground coffee, and a filter. However, to completely understand how each of these brewing methods differ, we need to look at some important variables, such as the filter material, the texture, the grind size, the brewing process, and experience of the brewer.
Pour Over Method
People who prefer the pour-over method admire its smooth and delicate texture which is somewhat tea-like and juicy. The flavor of the pour-over method is the most expressive one. This is probably because of the amount of water added in relation to the ground beans as well as the filtration technique being used which offers clarity in every cup.
In the pour-over coffee method, all you need is a paper filter. Make sure that it fits into a dripper. By using the paper filter, you can achieve a clarified texture since it blocks oils and solid coffee particles.
If you are using single-cup drippers, then it would be appropriate to use a medium grind size which is much the same as the coarseness of sea salt. To obtain a more balanced flavor, it will take less than 3 minutes starting from the first pour towards the last one.
On the other hand, if you’re using Chemex, the grind size will be dependent on the amount of coffee. If you want to make a couple of cups, then you might choose a slightly coarser grind size to prevent the water from over-extracting, making the coffee bitter.
Pourovers are perfect for people who love brief but focused mornings and dare to experiment. Although drippers might belong to the entry-level category, they also require care and focus. The most challenging part of the pour-over method is how the pour technique is carried out.
Coffeemaker Method
The coffeemaker method is appealing to many due to its convenience. With just a flick of a switch, you can have a decent drip coffee. Although its anatomy is just the same as a pour-over dripper, the way it works will still depend on the machine. In this method, you will be using a conical filter and place it over a pot.
If your machine does not include a built-in reusable filter, then you can use a paper filter. Place the ground coffee on the filter and simply press the start button. Just like the pour-over method, the paper filter will give you a clarified texture.
You can also use a medium grind size for optimal results. Nevertheless, if you want to make a couple of cups, then you can choose a slightly coarser grind size. A decent drip coffeemaker is the best option for you if you value convenience above anything else.
For the best results, you should use a decent grinder to achieve the appropriate grind size. In addition, it is recommended that you should use a scale for weighing your fresh coffee to make it more accurate.
French Press Method
The French Press method is ideal for those who desire a full-bodied coffee. Compared to the pour-over method, this method provides you with a denser and heavier texture.
As a result, you can have a delicious black coffee, however, you can also add cream or milk on it. This is an immersion brew method, wherein the ground coffee will be completely submerged in the water, and then a metal filter will be used to strain it. When metal filters are used, undissolved coffee particles and oils will be added to the cup.
It is recommended that a medium grind size be used, something like extremely coarse black pepper. This method is perfect for just about anyone, especially those who loves drinking coffee during breakfast since it can also serve as a carafe.
It is great to have a coffee machine at home or at the office. If you are interested in installing a coffee machine at your workplace, then you can contact Coffee Man Beverage Services at 714-336-8636 or send us an email at .