Overview of coffee bean types and characteristics

Coffee beans are mainly divided into two categories: Arabica and Robusta. Arabica beans are the most common high-quality coffee beans, widely popular for their complex flavor and delicate taste. They are usually grown in high altitude areas, with a soft taste and high acidity. Arabica beans have rich flavors and often have fruity or floral aromas.

Robusta coffee beans are stronger and more bitter than Arabica beans and contain higher caffeine. They are grown mainly at lower altitudes and are heat and pest resistant. Robusta beans are often used in instant coffee and espresso, providing a heavier taste and stronger caffeine effect.

There are also some other less common types of coffee beans, such as Liberica and Excelsa. Liberica beans have a unique woody and fruity aroma, while Excelsa beans are sought after by coffee lovers for their rarity and unique flavor profile. Understanding these different types of coffee beans will help beginners choose the right coffee beans according to their personal taste.

How to choose coffee beans for beginners

When choosing coffee beans, novices should first pay attention to the freshness of the beans. When buying fresh coffee beans, try to choose products with a recent production date. Generally, the best drinking period of coffee beans is within two to three weeks after roasting. Expired beans may lose their flavor and produce sour taste.

Secondly, understanding the acidity of coffee beans is crucial to choosing the right beans. The acidity of coffee beans will affect the taste, and beginners can choose low-acid or high-acid coffee beans according to their personal preferences. Low-acid beans usually have a mellower taste and are suitable for people who like a softer taste; while high-acid beans have a distinct fruity aroma and are suitable for people who like a fresh flavor.

Flavor is an important consideration when choosing coffee beans. The flavor of coffee beans is affected by the origin, variety, and degree of roasting. Newbies can choose the flavor they are interested in based on the flavor description on the label, such as chocolate, nutty, or fruity. Trying different flavors and finding the coffee beans that best suit your taste will be the key to improving your coffee experience.

Coffee bean brands recommended for beginners

For coffee novices, choosing the right coffee bean brand can greatly

A Beginner's Guide to Brewing Coffee

To make a great cup of coffee, you first need to choose the right coffee beans and make sure the grind size matches the brewing method you are using. For example, if you are using a French press, you should choose a coarse grind; if you are using a coffee maker, you will need a medium grind. Making sure the grind size is consistent helps to extract an even flavor.

Next, measuring the right amount of coffee beans and water is key. It is usually recommended to use 10 grams of coffee beans for every 180 ml of water. Using a precise ratio will ensure the best balance of strength and taste of the coffee. Place the coffee grounds evenly in the filter to avoid uneven extraction.

When heating water, it is recommended to keep the water temperature between 90 and 95 degrees Celsius. Overheating the water will cause the coffee to be over-extracted.

FAQ for newbies

A common question is how to judge the freshness of coffee beans. Newbies can ensure the freshness of the beans by checking the roasting date on the package. Coffee beans are best used within two to three weeks after roasting. Beans that are too old may lose their flavor and aroma.

Another common confusion is how to adjust the taste of coffee. If the coffee is too bitter, it may be because the beans are ground too finely or the brewing time is too long. Try using coarse ground coffee beans or shortening the brewing time to help improve the taste. On the other hand, if the coffee tastes too light, you can increase the amount of coffee beans or extend the brewing time.

For beginners, how to choose the right coffee beans is also a problem. It is recommended to start with the taste description and choose the flavor you like. For example, fruity beans are suitable for people who like a fresh taste, while chocolate-flavored beans are suitable for people who like a rich taste.

Finally, many people are confused about the brewing temperature of coffee. The ideal water temperature range is 90 to 95 degrees Celsius. Water temperatures that are too high or too low will affect the taste of the coffee. Using a thermometer or waiting for the water to cool slightly before brewing can help get the best coffee flavor.