Choosing Espresso Beans
Espresso beans are roasted longer at higher temperatures to extract oils and make the flavor bolder, richer, and more concentrated than regular coffee beans. When choosing coffee beans for espresso, pay attention to the roast level, freshness, and ethical sourcing. Blends highlighting Arabica and Robusta bean characteristics craft intense, complex espresso.
Best Beans for Espresso
The best coffee beans for espresso are typically dark roasted and have a strong, bold flavor. They should also be freshly ground in order to get the most out of them. Arabica beans are known for their smooth and slightly sweet flavor, while Robusta beans provide a strong, bold flavor and a higher caffeine content.
Do you need special beans for espresso?
Yes, you need special espresso beans for an espresso machine. Espresso beans are exposed to high temperatures for a longer duration to facilitate the easy extraction of oils, unlike coffee beans, which are roasted for a short time and retain their coarse texture.
Espresso is prepared using pressurized water and more ground coffee than drip methods, resulting in a higher concentration of caffeine. It’s easier to create balance in espresso when using medium to dark roasted beans, making them darker than regular ones.