How coffee beans are produced: from cultivation to roasting, the whole process is revealed!

How coffee beans are produced: from cultivation to roasting, the whole process is revealed!

Coffee is one of the most popular drinks in the world, and coffee beans are the key ingredient in making coffee. This article will reveal the production process of coffee beans, from cultivation to roasting. Let's learn about it together.

1. Cultivation of coffee plants

Coffee plants are usually grown at high altitudes because these areas have suitable climate and soil conditions. First, prepare the soil on a suitable plot and choose the right variety to grow. Then sow the seeds or transplant the seedlings and make sure to provide adequate sunlight, water and nutrients.

2. Coffee Cherry Ripening and Picking

After about three to five years, the coffee tree begins to bear fruit. When the fruit is ripe, it will appear red or yellow. At this time, it can be picked. When picking, the fruit needs to be carefully peeled by hand and only ripe fruits are selected.

3. Coffee Bean Processing

After picking, the coffee beans need to be processed to remove the pulp and outer skin. There are two main processing methods: dry and wet.

The dry method is to dry the picked coffee cherries in the sun to dry them naturally. During this process, the pulp will gradually dry and fall off, revealing the coffee beans inside. This method is often used to produce special flavors or traditional flavors of coffee.

The wet method involves soaking the picked coffee cherries in water and removing the outer skin and pulp through mechanical equipment. Next, the remaining mucus is covered on the beans and removed through a fermentation process. Finally, the coffee beans are washed, screened and dried again.

4. Storage and transportation

After processing, coffee beans need to be properly stored and transported to maintain their quality. Generally, they should be stored in a well-ventilated environment away from direct sunlight, and the humidity and temperature should be checked and adjusted regularly.

When shipped, coffee beans are usually packed in special containers to protect them from moisture and the outside environment. These containers are usually sealed and appropriately labeled to ensure correct handling.

5. Coffee Bean Roasting

Roasting is heating coffee beans to high temperatures to change their internal chemical composition and give coffee its unique aroma and flavor. During the roasting process, coffee beans go through different stages: development, yellow, first crack, second crack, etc. Each stage will have an impact on the final taste.

Depending on your taste, you can choose light, medium or dark roasting. Light roasting usually produces coffee with a stronger acidity and a light taste; medium roasting is more balanced; and dark roasting brings a strong and bitter taste.

6. Storage and Use

After roasting, coffee beans need to be stored properly to maintain their freshness and flavor. Place the roasted coffee beans in an airtight container and store in a dry, dark and low temperature environment.

When using it, you can choose the appropriate grinding degree and brewing method according to your personal taste. Coarse grinding is usually used for brewing large quantities of coffee, such as French press pots; medium coarseness is suitable for drip brewing; and fine grinding is often used in espresso machines.

Conclusion

From cultivation to final use, each link has an impact on the final coffee quality. Understanding these processes can help us better appreciate and enjoy a cup of quality coffee.