Coffee Beans for Beginners: Exploring the Basics of the World of Coffee

Classification of coffee beans

Coffee beans are the seeds that are picked from the coffee tree and then processed and roasted to become the coffee we know as coffee. Coffee beans can be divided into several different categories depending on their origin, variety, and processing method.

First of all, coffee beans can be divided into two categories according to their origin: Arabica and Robusta. Arabica is the most common and popular type, with higher quality and complexity, and contains lower caffeine content. Robusta is more tolerant to environmental conditions, has a relatively bitter taste, and contains higher caffeine.

Choose the coffee that suits your taste

When choosing coffee that suits your taste, in addition to considering its origin, you also need to pay attention to factors such as its variety, processing method, and degree of roasting.

There are distinct differences between the different varieties: Typica, for example, often has a citrus or floral flavor, while Blue Mountain is known for its rich flavor and acidity.

The processing method will also affect the flavor of coffee beans. Dry processing (Natural) will make the coffee beans have a stronger fruity flavor, while wet processing (Washed) focuses more on retaining the characteristics of the coffee beans themselves.

The degree of roasting is one of the key factors that determine the taste and flavor intensity of coffee. Light roasting usually retains more original flavors, but also brings higher acidity; Medium roasting performs well in balancing taste and flavor; Dark roasting focuses more on bitterness and aromas such as cocoa.

How to store coffee beans

Storing coffee beans properly can extend their shelf life and ensure they taste fresh. Here are a few key points:

First, avoid exposure to direct sunlight or humidity. Both sunlight and humidity can cause coffee beans to deteriorate and lose their original aroma.

Secondly, store the coffee beans in an airtight container. Air can cause the coffee beans to oxidize, which can affect the taste and flavor.

Finally, avoid opening the container too often. Each opening introduces new air and accelerates the deterioration of the coffee beans.

How to grind coffee beans

Grinding is one of the key steps to brewing a good cup of coffee. Here are a few common grinding methods:

For pour-over or drip brewing, a medium coarse to medium fine powder is suitable for extracting a more balanced and clear taste.

If using a French Press, coarser particles are needed to prevent penetration and produce a stronger, richer taste.

For espresso machines, very fine (Fine) or even extra fine (Extra Fine) particles are needed to extract a rich and full flavor.

How to Brew a Great Cup of Coffee

There are many ways to brew coffee. Here are a few common methods:

Drip brewing is the simplest and most common method. Put the ground coffee powder into the filter paper, pour in the appropriate amount of boiling water, and wait for the process to complete.

For a French press, you need to put the ground coffee powder into the pot first, add an appropriate amount of boiling water and stir evenly, then wait for a while, and then use pressure to make the coffee seep out.

An espresso machine uses high-pressure steam to extract a rich, full flavor from tightly packed, fine particles.

Explore more about the world of coffee beans

The above is just a brief introduction to the basics of coffee beans and brewing techniques. If you are interested in the deeper differences between different origins, varieties and processing methods, you can further explore this fascinating and endless world.

By tasting coffees from different origins, varieties, and processing methods, you will be able to better understand the diversity and complexity of coffee and find the perfect cup for your taste.