The five stages of coffee roasting, exploring the origin and evolution of coffee roasting

Coffee roasting originated from ancient roasting techniques and has evolved through five stages, including the green stage, dehydration stage, Menard reaction stage, secondary dehydration stage, and complete carbonization stage. Each stage has an important impact on the characteristics of coffee beans, and ultimately affects the taste and aroma of coffee. Exploring the process of coffee roasting is not only a pursuit of skills, but also an exploration of coffee culture and taste. Roasting is an art and a science, which has transformed coffee from an obscure fruit into a global beverage.

Coffee, a beverage loved all over the world, has a journey full of mystery and changes during its roasting process. From green beans to the aromatic coffee liquid in the cup, each stage of the roasting process has a crucial impact on the final flavor of the coffee. This article will trace the origin of coffee roasting and explore the historical evolution of these five roasting stages.

We need to understand the origin of coffee roasting. As early as the Middle Ages, residents in the Arab region had begun to try to roast coffee beans, but the roasting method at that time was relatively simple and rough, and no clear roasting stage had been formed. With the passage of time, coffee culture gradually spread to the European continent, and roasting technology also developed accordingly. From the 17th to the 18th century, with the prosperity of trade and the popularization of coffee culture, coffee roasting gradually formed the initial five stages: dehydration, yellowing, browning, carbonization and over-burning. This process not only changes the color of coffee beans, but also highlights and enhances the flavor of coffee.

Dehydration stage : This stage mainly occurs within a few minutes after the start of roasting. The coffee beans gradually lose moisture under high temperature and the color begins to lighten. At this time, the surface of the coffee beans is slightly astringent and chemical reactions begin to occur inside, laying the foundation for the subsequent flavor.

Yellowing stage : As the roasting progresses, the color of the coffee beans deepens further and begins to show yellow characteristics. This stage is a critical period for the formation of the coffee bean flavor, and some basic coffee aromas begin to emerge.

Browning stage : After entering this stage, the color of the coffee beans quickly turns dark brown and an oily sheen begins to appear on the surface. At this time, the flavor of the coffee gradually becomes richer, presenting a unique aroma and taste.

Carbonization stage : In this stage, the coffee beans are further exposed to heat, producing more complex chemical reactions. This stage is the last chance to adjust the flavor of the coffee. The roaster needs to adjust the degree of roasting according to his or her needs to make the coffee beans achieve the ideal taste and aroma.

Over-burned stage : This is an over-roasted stage, which will cause the coffee beans to have a burnt and bitter taste. Although the coffee beans at this stage are no longer suitable for making high-quality coffee drinks, they have unique value for certain specific uses (such as making caramel-flavored foods).

With the development of modern science and technology, coffee roasting technology is also constantly improving and innovating. Today's coffee roasting is no longer limited to the traditional five stages. Many roasters have explored unique roasting methods through different techniques and methods, bringing richer and more diverse taste experiences to coffee lovers. With the emergence of various new roasting equipment, the coffee roasting process has become more convenient and efficient.

In the process of exploring the origin and evolution of coffee roasting, we can't help but admire human wisdom and creativity. The division of five stages is not only a summary and improvement of coffee roasting technology, but also the inheritance and development of coffee culture. Behind each stage is rich historical and cultural connotation, which is worthy of our in-depth exploration and taste. Behind every cup of fragrant coffee is a wonderful world waiting for us to discover. Let us immerse ourselves in this wonderful journey of coffee together!