Coffee bean roasting degree: a comprehensive analysis from light to dark

Classification of coffee bean roasting degrees

The degree of roasting of coffee beans is one of the important factors that determine the taste and flavor of coffee. According to the degree of roasting, coffee beans can be divided into three levels: light roasting, medium roasting and dark roasting.

Light roast

Light roasting means roasting coffee beans for a short time at a lower temperature, usually between 180-205 degrees Celsius. This roasting method retains most of the original flavor and acidity, and makes obvious oil appear on the surface of the coffee beans. Since it is not subjected to high temperature treatment for a long time, the coffee produced by light roasting has a fresh, floral and fruity taste.

Medium Roast

A medium roast is called a medium roast, which is between light and dark. This method is usually carried out between 205-220 degrees Celsius and takes longer to complete. Medium fire tends to balance the original flavor with the characteristics brought by metabolism. It retains some acidity and freshness, but also brings some caramel and chocolate flavors.

Dark roast

Dark roasting refers to roasting coffee beans at a higher temperature for a longer period of time, usually between 220-240 degrees Celsius. This method causes oil to appear on the surface of the coffee beans and produces a strong bitter taste and roasted malt aroma. Due to the long-term high temperature treatment, dark roasting will cause the coffee beans to lose most of their original flavor and acidity, but it also brings a stronger and more bitter taste.

Effects of different roasting degrees on taste and flavor

Different degrees of roasting will have significantly different effects on coffee beans. Light roasting retains the original flavor and acidity, with a fresh, floral and fruity taste; medium roasting balances the original flavor with the characteristics brought by metabolism; while dark roasting produces rich bitterness, a heavy taste, and some special fragrant sweetness.

Choose the roasting degree that suits your taste

It is very important to choose the degree of coffee roasting that suits your taste. If you like a fresh, high-acid taste, you can choose a light roast; if you like balance and diversity, medium roasting may be more suitable for you; and if you pursue a strong, bitter and special rich sweetness, then dark roasting would be a good choice.

Summarize

The degree of roasting of coffee beans has an important impact on the flavor of coffee. From light to dark, there are three levels: light roasting, medium roasting and dark roasting. Different degrees of roasting will bring different taste and flavor characteristics, so when choosing coffee, you need to judge according to your personal preference.