Coffee for Beginners: Exploring the Basics

The origin of coffee

Coffee is a beverage made from coffee beans that originated in Africa. According to legend, coffee was discovered by a shepherd named Kaldi in the 9th century. He noticed that his sheep became unusually active after eating a red fruit. So he tried boiling the fruit and drinking it. He found that he also became energetic.

Coffee tree and beans

The real coffee is the beans inside the coffee fruit that are picked from the coffee tree. These beans are processed, roasted and ground before they become our favorite drink.

Main varieties

There are many different varieties and types of coffee beans in the world, the most common and widely used of which include Arabica and Robusta. Arabica is considered to be of high quality, with a softer and more complex taste; Robusta is stronger and more bitter.

Process

The processing of coffee beans is very important, as it directly affects the taste and flavor of the final coffee. Generally speaking, processing includes the following steps:

1. Picking: Harvesting the ripe coffee cherries manually or mechanically.
2. Peeling: Removing the outer layer of the fruit to expose the coffee bean inside.
3. Fermentation: The beans are placed in a specific environment to ferment to remove the pulp residue.
4. Washing: Wash the fermented beans with water.
5. Drying: Dry the moist beans to the appropriate moisture content.

Baking process

Roasting is a crucial step in making coffee. Different degrees and times of roasting will produce different flavors and aromas. Generally speaking, there are several common roasting degrees:

(1) Light:

- The taste is relatively light and refreshing;

- Higher acidity, more floral and fruity aroma.

(2) Medium:

- Balanced taste, moderate sweetness and sourness;

- Rich aroma and round taste.

(3) Dark:

- Strong, bitter taste;

- Reduced acidity, with more caramel and chocolate notes.

Grinding process

Coffee beans need to be ground into powder before brewing. Different brewing methods require different coarseness. Here are some common types of coffee bean powder:

1. Extra fine: for Turkish coffee pots.
2. Fine: For espresso machines and moka pots.
3. Medium: For drip coffee makers and French presses.
4. Coarse: For cold brew or hand brewing equipment such as a condenser or V60 dripper.

Conclusion

The world of coffee is so vast and interesting. By understanding the origins, varieties, processing, and basics of roasting and grinding, we can better appreciate and enjoy this delicious beverage.