Coffee bean processing: from raw beans to a cup of aromatic coffee

Coffee bean processing: from raw beans to a cup of aromatic coffee

Coffee is one of the most popular beverages in the world, and coffee beans are the key to making a delicious cup of coffee. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the process from raw beans to a cup of delicious coffee.

1. Raw bean picking and processing

First, let's take a look at the picking and processing of raw beans. When the coffee trees bear ripe berries, farmers pick them by hand. They only choose those that are fully ripe, bright in color and have a strong aroma.

Next, the farmers will process the fruits they have picked. They first remove the outer skin and expose the two seeds inside (which we often call "coffee beans"). Then, these seeds are placed in water for fermentation.

The fermentation process usually takes several days, during which time the seeds gradually become softer and the inner pulp can be removed more easily. Once fermentation is complete, the seeds are washed and dried.

2. Coffee Bean Roasting

Roasting coffee beans is a key step in making delicious coffee. During this process, the beans undergo chemical and physical changes, resulting in different flavors and aromas.

First, the coffee beans are placed in a dedicated roaster. The temperature gradually increases and the time is extended. When the temperature reaches about 200°C, the raw beans begin to react chemically and the color begins to darken.

As time goes by and the temperature increases, the water inside the coffee beans gradually evaporates and produces gases. These gases are discharged through an open or closed system.

When the desired roast degree is reached (depending on the type and taste), the heat is turned off and the beans are quickly cooled to stop the heating process.

3. Storage and grinding

Once the roasting process is complete, the coffee beans need to be stored and ground for use in making coffee.

First, place the roasted coffee beans in a sealed container. This prevents the beans from being affected by oxygen, humidity, and light, and preserves their freshness.

When you are ready to brew a cup of coffee, you need to grind the required amount of coffee beans into the right powder. Different brewing methods require different grinds. For example, a French press requires coarser particles, while an espresso machine requires finer particles.

4. Brew a cup of aromatic coffee

The final step is to brew the processed coffee beans into a cup of fragrant and delicious coffee.

Choose the appropriate brewing method according to your personal taste and preference, and mix the appropriate amount of water and the ground coffee powder in proportion. Then soak it in boiling water or use dripping to extract the aromatic and rich-tasting coffee.

A cup of fragrant coffee is ready. While enjoying it, you can also taste the exquisiteness and deliciousness brought by the whole processing process.

in conclusion

From raw beans to a cup of coffee, coffee beans go through multiple steps such as picking, processing, roasting, storage and grinding. Each step has an important impact on the final taste and aroma. Only by carefully controlling each step and choosing the right method and equipment can a satisfying cup of coffee be made.

Whether brewing at home or enjoying it in a professional coffee shop, we can feel the deliciousness and enjoyment brought by this careful processing.