Storing Coffee Beans
The ideal way to store whole coffee beans is in an opaque, airtight container, away from direct sun and any heat source. Coffee beans are sensitive to air, light, temperature, and moisture, so for best results, minimize exposure to all of these elements. Look for a dark, cool corner of your kitchen or a shelf in your cabinet or pantry.
Coffee Supply Chain Overview
The coffee supply chain is a complex network of interactions spanning from coffee farms to coffee shops and homes worldwide. It involves countless individuals dedicated to bringing you the best possible coffee experience.
Coffee Bean Sourcing
Coffee cherries grow on farms. The cherries get processed to extract the beans. The beans then get transported worldwide to importers and roasters. Importers and roasters evaluate each batch to unlock its flavor potential. Finally, the beans reach baristas and enthusiasts who skillfully brew them into aromatic beverages.
Coffee Beans Characteristics
- Types of Coffee Beans: The ripened fruits of coffee plants are cherries, each containing two beans positioned together.
- Roasting Process: The roasting process transforms green coffee beans into the familiar brown roasted beans. Roasters carefully control parameters like temperature and duration to achieve desired flavors. Lighter roasts are done at lower temperatures for a shorter time. This produces a more acidic and delicate flavor.
Selecting Quality Coffee Beans
When choosing quality coffee beans, consistency is key. Pick freshly roasted and winnowed beans of uniform size. This ensures even extraction and a consistent flavor. High-grade Arabica beans also give a stronger flavor than lower grades.
Different Coffee Bean Species
- Arabica vs. Robusta: Robusta coffee beans are cheaper to produce than Arabica. They contain twice the caffeine but are often used in inexpensive commercial blends. Robusta is also more disease resistant, making it easier to cultivate.