Coffee Encyclopedia: One-stop learning of complete coffee knowledge

The origin of coffee

Coffee is a beverage made from coffee beans that originated in Ethiopia, Africa. According to legend, a shepherd found that his sheep became excited after eating a kind of red berry. So he tried boiling the berries and drinking the juice. He found that he also became energetic, and thus began his exploration of coffee.

Coffee tree and coffee beans

The coffee tree belongs to the Rubiaceae family and grows in tropical and subtropical regions. It usually grows on mountains above 1,000 meters above sea level and requires moderately humid and warm climate conditions. The ripe berries are red or yellow, and contain two seeds called "beans".

Handling and processing

When picked to maturity, the coffee berries are peeled of their skin and pulp, leaving two beans wrapped inside. These beans are then fermented, washed, and dried. Finally, they are roasted to different degrees to produce coffee beans with different flavors and aromas.

Coffee classification

Coffee can be divided into several categories depending on its origin, type and processing method. The most common are the two main varieties of Arabica and Robusta. Arabica coffee usually has a higher acidity, floral aroma and delicate taste; while Robusta is more bitter and contains a higher caffeine content.

Grinding and Brewing

To make a delicious cup of coffee, you need to put freshly roasted and ground coffee beans into a filter cup or espresso machine for brewing. Factors such as water temperature, brewing time, and using the appropriate ratio will affect the final taste. In addition, you can also add milk or other seasonings to adjust the flavor according to your personal preference.

Global Features

Coffee from all over the world has its own unique flavor and characteristics due to different soil conditions, climate and planting methods. Brazil is the world's largest coffee producer, accounting for one-third of the world's total production. Colombia is known for its mellow taste, while Kenya is known for its acidity and fruity flavor.

Coffee culture and social interaction

Coffee has a deep cultural background all over the world and has become one of the important ways for people to socialize, gather or relax. For example, in Italy, people are used to drinking espresso in cafes and chatting with friends; while in Turkey, there is a unique and exquisite Persian brewing method.

Health Benefits and Precautions

Moderate coffee consumption can bring a variety of health benefits, such as refreshing, increasing alertness, and improving cognitive function. However, excessive intake may cause side effects such as insomnia, anxiety, or digestive problems. In addition, pregnant women should limit their intake because it contains substances that are harmful to the fetus.

Conclusion

Coffee is a beloved beverage whose rich flavor and aroma make it an essential part of many people's daily life. By understanding coffee's origins, processing, and specialties from around the world, we can better appreciate and enjoy this delicious drink. At the same time, it is also important to drink it in moderation and adjust the brewing method according to personal taste.