Coffee beans: a unique variety of the bean plant

The origin of coffee beans

Coffee beans are seeds from the coffee tree, belonging to the bean plant family. According to historical records, coffee beans were first discovered in the highlands of Ethiopia, Africa. Legend has it that a shepherd found that his sheep became unusually active after eating certain red berries. So he tried boiling the berries and drinking the liquid. Surprisingly, he found that he also became energetic.

Different varieties of coffee beans

As time went by and the demand for coffee drinks increased, people began to cultivate different varieties and types of coffee trees to meet market demand. Currently, the two main varieties that are most common and widely used in the world are Arabica and Robusta.

Arabica: Quality and Complexity

Arabica is considered the highest quality, best tasting coffee bean with a complex flavor profile. They are typically grown at high altitudes, such as in the mountains of Colombia, Brazil, and Ethiopia. Arabica beans have a lower caffeine content, higher acidity, and a softer, more aromatic flavor.

Robusta: Strong and tough

Robusta beans are easier to grow and more adaptable to the environment than Arabica. They are usually grown in low-altitude areas such as Vietnam, Brazil and Indonesia. Robusta beans contain higher caffeine content, relatively low acidity, and have a strong bitter taste.

Other special varieties

In addition to Arabica and Robusta, there are also some special varieties of coffee beans. For example, there is a special variety called "Caturra" grown in the Hawaiian Islands. These coffee beans have a unique flavor and taste due to the influence of atmospheric temperature differences, mineral-rich volcanic soil and altitude.

Coffee bean processing

Once coffee beans are picked, they go through a series of processes to become the coffee we know as coffee. First, the berry skin is removed, and the remaining part is fermented. After that, it is dried in the sun or mechanically removed. Finally, the coffee beans are roasted to enhance their flavor.

Effect of different roasting degrees on taste

During the roasting process, different degrees of heating time and temperature will produce different taste characteristics. Light roast usually retains more acidity of the original coffee beans and has a lighter, light and fragrant flavor. Medium roast is more balanced and may have a rich and sweet aroma like nuts or chocolate. Dark roast usually has a rich, bitter and slightly greasy flavor.

Coffee bean storage and grinding

To preserve the freshness and flavor of coffee beans, it is best to store them in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight. In addition, to make a delicious cup of coffee, coffee beans need to be ground to the coarseness required for different brewing methods. For example, for a French press, coarser particles are required, while for an espresso machine, finer particles are required.

Conclusion

Whether it is Arabica or Robusta, light roast or dark roast, in the rich and diverse coffee culture, everyone can find a variety that suits their taste and preferences. From cultivation to processing to brewing, every step will affect the cup of mellow and delicious coffee we enjoy.