The Secret of Coffee Roasting: Exploring the Five Stages and Four Roasting Degrees

Coffee roasting involves five stages and four roasting degrees, each of which has a profound impact on the flavor, aroma and taste of coffee. The roasting process includes preheating, dehydration, enzyme changes, browning and aroma development, while the roasting degrees are divided into light medium roasting, medium roasting, deep roasting and ultra-dark roasting. Different roasting degrees will bring different taste experiences. Exploring these mysteries can better understand the charm of coffee.

In the world of coffee, roasting is a magical and important process. It not only affects the taste of coffee, but also affects the aroma, color and final quality of coffee. This article will take you to explore the five stages of coffee roasting and the four main roasting degrees. Let us unveil the mystery of coffee roasting together.

1. Five stages of coffee roasting

1. Very light roasting : The surface of the coffee beans at this stage is original or light brown. The water content inside the coffee beans is high, showing bright acidity and a grassy taste. The roasting time is extremely short and they need to be cooled quickly to maintain their flavor.

2. Light roasting : The surface of lightly roasted coffee beans begins to show a distinct brown color, with moderate internal moisture, bright and lively taste, prominent acidity, and retaining a slight grassy aroma. Coffee beans of this roasting degree are suitable for making light-flavored coffee such as hand brewing and drip coffee.

3. Medium roasting : As the roasting progresses, the surface of the coffee beans gradually becomes glossy and the color becomes darker. The taste begins to show a balanced sourness and sweetness. At the same time, the grassy taste gradually disappears, and the unique aroma of coffee begins to emanate. Coffee beans of this roasting degree are suitable for making various daily beverages.

4. Deep roasting : Deep roasted coffee beans have a lot of oil on the surface, dark color, mellow taste, low acidity, and obvious sweetness. Due to the large amount of water discharged, the coffee beans become drier. Coffee beans of this roasting degree are suitable for making heavy-flavored beverages such as Italian coffee.

5. Over-roasted : The surface of over-roasted coffee beans is too shiny, and even carbonized. The taste becomes bland, and even bitter and burnt. Coffee beans of this roasting degree are usually not liked because they have lost the original flavor of the coffee.

2. Four main degrees of coffee roasting

1. Light roasted : Lightly roasted coffee beans retain a lot of acidity and fruity aroma, presenting a bright and lively taste. Coffee beans with this degree of roasting usually have a very high aroma value and are suitable for coffee lovers who like obvious sourness and fresh taste.

2. Medium roast : Medium roasted coffee beans have a balanced taste, with sourness and sweetness complementing each other, while exuding a rich coffee aroma. Coffee beans of this roasting degree are suitable for daily drinking by most people and can be used to make coffee drinks of various tastes.

3. Dark roasted : Dark roasted coffee beans have a mellow taste, obvious sweetness and low acidity. As more water is discharged, the coffee beans become drier, which is suitable for making coffee drinks that require a strong taste, such as espresso.

4. Caramel roast : (Note: "Caramel roast" here is not the actual degree of roasting, but a descriptive term) Coffee beans that are close to but not completely caramelized have a unique caramel aroma and taste. Coffee beans with this degree of roasting are very popular in the market because their unique aroma and taste add a new level to the drink.

In the process of exploring the five stages and four main roasting degrees of coffee, it is not difficult to find that each stage and degree has a profound impact on the final coffee quality. From bright acidity to mellow sweetness, every subtle change reflects the art and science of roasting. I hope this article can help everyone better understand the process of coffee roasting and find the best cup of coffee that belongs to them.