Coffee bean processing: a look at the many methods

Overview of the various methods of coffee bean processing

Coffee is one of the most popular drinks in the world, and coffee beans are the key raw material for making coffee. In order to obtain high-quality coffee, coffee beans must be processed. This article will introduce several common coffee bean processing methods.

1. Water washing method

The washed coffee method is a traditional processing method that removes the pulp and mucus, making the coffee beans cleaner and purer. First, the ripe coffee cherries picked are soaked in a tank and stirred with a machine to remove the pulp. Then, the remaining material is filtered out through a sieve and rinsed again with clean water. Finally, the beans that are moist but free of mucus and pulp residue are dried.

2. Natural Law

The natural method is also known as the dry method or sun drying method and is widely used in many regions. This method is simple and easy to use and can retain most of the natural flavor of coffee beans. The picked coffee cherries are placed directly in the sun to dry, and this process may take several weeks or even longer. When the cherries are completely dry, they are shelled and screened to obtain pure coffee beans.

3. Honey Processing

Honey processing is a processing method between the washed method and the natural method. It retains some pulp and mucilage, but is cleaner than the washed method. First, the picked ripe coffee cherries are soaked in a tank and stirred with a machine to remove some of the pulp. Then, the remaining material is filtered out through a sieve and rinsed again with clean water. Finally, some mucilage and pulp residues are retained before drying.

4. Fermentation treatment

Fermentation is a special and complex processing method that is used more frequently in certain regions. First, the ripe coffee berries are picked and fermented in large barrels. The fermentation time can be adjusted as needed, usually ranging from 24 to 48 hours. During the fermentation process, the pulp is decomposed by microorganisms, which changes the flavor of the coffee beans. Then, the fermented beans are dried and shelled.

5. Degreasing method

Degreasing is a relatively new processing method that has become increasingly popular in recent years. It uses special equipment to remove pectin and mucus from the surface of coffee beans, making the beans cleaner and purer. This method can improve the quality of coffee and save water resources.

Summarize

The above introduces several common coffee bean processing methods: washed method, natural method, honey method, fermentation method and degreasing method. Each method has its own unique features and will have different effects on the final coffee. Choosing the right processing method can help us make delicious coffee with a strong taste and unique flavor.