Coffee Basics: Exploring the Mysteries of the Coffee World

The origin of coffee

Coffee is a drink made from ground coffee beans. It originated in Ethiopia, Africa. According to legend, in the 9th century AD, a shepherd found that his sheep were full of energy after eating the fruits of a certain plant. So he tried to boil these fruits and drink them, and found that he also became refreshed. This is the story of how coffee was first known to people.

Coffee tree and coffee beans

The coffee tree belongs to the Rubiaceae family and grows well in suitable climatic conditions. It usually grows at high altitudes and requires plenty of sunlight and moderately moist soil. When the fruit is ripe, it is red or yellow and contains two small beans.

Different types of coffee

There are many different types and flavor profiles of coffee to choose from. Two of the most common and widely consumed are Arabica and Robusta. Arabica beans are generally higher in acidity and aroma, while Robusta beans are more bitter and full-bodied.

Coffee roasting process

Roasting is the process of heating raw coffee beans to a certain temperature to change their flavor characteristics. Different degrees of roasting will produce coffee with different tastes and flavors. Light roasting usually retains the original flavor, with higher acidity and fruity or floral aromas; medium roasting is more balanced and has a soft taste; deep roasting will cause oil to appear on the surface of the coffee beans and bring a rich chocolate or nutty flavor.

Brewing method

Brewing is the process of bringing ground coffee into contact with water to extract its aroma, oils, and dissolved substances. Common brewing methods include drip, French press, espresso, etc. Each method can produce a different style and strength of coffee.

Health Benefits of Coffee

Drinking coffee in moderation can bring some health benefits. Studies have shown that the caffeine in coffee can refresh the mind and enhance concentration and memory. In addition, coffee is rich in antioxidants, which play a role in preventing chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.

Specialty Coffees from Around the World

Different countries and regions have their own unique coffee culture. For example, Italy is the birthplace of espresso, where drinking espresso has become a way of life; Turkey is famous for its special brewing method; and Colombia is one of the world's largest Arabica producing areas.

Discover more about coffee

This is just an entry-level introduction and cannot cover all the rich diversity of coffee. If you are interested in this fascinating and wonderful thing, please explore the world of coffee further and you will find many more surprises.