How to choose coffee beans: a must-read for beginners

How to choose coffee beans: a must-read for beginners

For coffee lovers, choosing the right coffee beans is an important task. Different coffee bean types and roasting degrees will bring different tastes and flavors. This article will introduce how to choose coffee beans that suit your taste for beginners.

Learn about common coffee bean types

First, we need to understand the common types of coffee beans. The two most common ones are Arabica and Robusta. Arabica is a high-quality, high-acid, low-bitter and low-caffeine variety that usually has a richer and more complex flavor. Robusta has a higher bitterness, less acidity and more body.

In addition, there are special varieties such as Geisha or Rwanda Red Bourbon, which have unique and rare flavor characteristics.

Consider personal preferences and taste

When choosing the right coffee beans for you, personal preference and taste preference are important considerations. If you like coffee with higher acidity and complex flavor, Arabica beans are a good choice. If you prefer a stronger, more bitter coffee, try Robusta beans.

In addition, you can also choose special varieties according to your preference of coffee flavor. Kiwi beans usually have a fresh taste like flowers and tea, while Rwandan ruby ​​has a rich fruity aroma.

Understanding roasting levels

In addition to the type, the degree of roasting also affects the flavor of coffee beans. Generally, there are three levels: light roasting, medium roasting and dark roasting.

Light roast usually retains the characteristics of the original coffee beans, with bright acidity and a fresh taste; medium roast is between light roast and dark roast, retaining some of the original flavor while adding some sweetness; dark roast has a stronger caramel and bitter taste and is often used to make strong Italian coffee.

Buy freshness and storage

When buying coffee beans, freshness is a key factor. Freshly roasted coffee beans generally have better flavor and aroma. It is recommended to choose products with the roasting date marked on the packaging, and try to choose products that are no more than two weeks old.

Storage is also important to preserve the freshness of coffee beans. Keeping unopened bags of coffee beans in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight can extend their shelf life. Once opened, it is best to transfer the remaining portion to an airtight container and use it within two weeks to ensure that the flavor is not lost.

Refer to other people's evaluation and brand reputation

If you don’t have a clear idea of ​​what kind of taste you like or want to try coffee beans from different brands and origins, you can refer to other people’s reviews to make a decision. There are many online platforms and social networks where users review and share their experiences on coffee beans from various brands and origins.

In addition, brand reputation is also an important consideration. Some well-known brands usually have higher quality assurance and a wider range of choices.

Try different combinations and brewing methods

Finally, to find the coffee beans that best suit your taste, you can try different types, roasting levels, and origins, and use different brewing methods to experience a variety of flavors. From hand pouring to drip, French press, and other methods can bring different taste experiences.

In short, when choosing coffee beans, you need to consider personal preference, taste preference, roasting degree, freshness, etc. By trying different combinations and brewing methods, you will be able to find the coffee beans that best suit your taste.