Coffee Basics: From Varieties to Brewing, Learn About the World of Coffee

Coffee Varieties

Coffee is a beverage made from coffee beans, which come from different varieties. The two most common varieties are Arabica and Robusta. Arabica beans are generally considered to be of higher quality and better tasting, with floral and fruity characteristics. Robusta beans are relatively cheaper, contain more caffeine, and have a stronger and bitter taste.

Coffee cultivation and harvesting

Coffee plants need the right climate conditions to grow well. Generally speaking, an altitude between 800 and 2,000 meters, a temperature between 15 and 24 degrees Celsius, an annual rainfall of more than 1,500 mm, and plenty of sunlight are ideal conditions. Of course, there are other factors that affect growth in different regions.

When the plants reach maturity, farmers will pick them. This process needs to be done manually, and those coffee cherries that are bright red or yellow and shiny should be selected. Generally speaking, the time of picking will affect the quality of coffee beans, so farmers need to determine the best time based on the local climate and maturity.

Coffee Bean Processing

Once picked, the coffee cherries need to be processed to obtain edible coffee beans. The first step is the skinning and pulping process. This can be done through two methods: natural drying, which is to place the whole coffee cherry in the sun to dry, and washing, which is to soak the cherries in water and remove the pulp through mechanical force.

Next comes the fermentation process, during which bacteria break down the remaining mucilage and produce a special aroma. The fermentation time usually takes 12 to 48 hours.

The final step is roasting. Under high temperature, the untreated green beans will turn brown and release a pleasant aroma. Different degrees and times of roasting will produce different taste and flavor characteristics.

Brewing tips

Brewing is the process of bringing coffee beans into contact with water to extract the coffee. Here are a few common brewing methods:

1. Drip method: This is the most common and simple method, using filter paper and a dripper to pass hot water through the coffee grounds.

2. French Press: Also known as a "pressure pot," it uses high pressure to push hot water into a container where it is mixed with coffee powder, and then a filter is used to separate the liquid.

3. Espresso Machine: This machine uses high temperature and pressure to create a small cup of very strong espresso.

4. Pour-over method: This method requires manually controlling the water flow and usually uses a larger particle size grind to better control the extraction time and taste.

Conclusion

From varieties to brewing techniques, we have a more comprehensive and in-depth understanding of coffee. No matter which variety you like or how you brew it, we hope you can enjoy every cup of coffee with a fragrant and rich taste.