Know Your Coffee Beans

Question 1

• What are the two main varieties of coffee beans?

Answer 1

• Arabica and Robusta

Question 2

• What is the Arabica variety of coffee beans?

Answer 2

• Arabica is a species of coffee plant that is widely considered to produce higher quality coffee than the other major coffee species, Robusta.
• Arabica coffee is grown in various regions around the world, including Latin America, Africa, and Asia.
• It is know for its mild, smooth, and aromatic flavour profile, which can vary depending on factors such as altitude, soil type, and processing methods.
• Arabica coffee plants typically grow at higher altitudes than Robusta plants and require a cooler climate with plenty of rainfall.
• They are also more susceptible to pests and diseases, which can make them difficult to cultivate.
• Arabica coffee beans are generally more expenisve than Robusta beans due to their higher quality and lower yield per plant.

Question 3

• What are the different varieties of the Arabica bean family?

Answer 3

1. Bourbon: This variety is known for its sweet, fruity flavour with hints of chocolate and caramel.
2. Typica: This is one of the oldest coffee varieties and is known for its mild, balanced flavour profile.
3. Catual: This variety is a cross beween the Mundo Novo and Caturra varieties and is known for its complex flavour profile, with notes of chocolate, nuts, and citrus.
4. Geisha: This variety is known for its delicate, floral flavour profile, with notes of jasmine and bergamot.

Question 4

• What is the Robusta variety of coffee beans?

Answer 4

• Robusta is a type of coffee bean that is grown primarily in Africa and Indonesia.
• It is known for its strong, bold flavour and higher caffeine content compared to other types of coffee beans.
• Robusta beans are often used in blends with other types of coffee beans to add depth and complexity to the flavour profile.
• Robusta coffee plants are hardier and more resistant to disease than the Arabica coffee plant, which produces the more widely consumed Arabica beans.
• Robusta beans are also easier to grow and harvest, making them a more cost-effective option for many coffee farmers.

Question 5

• What is the Excelsa variety of coffee beans?

Answer 5

• Excelsa is a type of coffee bean that is less well-known than Arabica and Robusta.
• Excelsa trees grow in Southeast Asia, primarily in Vietnam, and are harvested in small quantities.
• Excelsa beans have a distinct flavour profile that is fruity and tart, with dark fruit, tart cherry, and grapefruit notes.
• They are often used in blends to add complexity to the flavour profile of the coffee.
• Excelsa beans are categorised as a subcategory of Liberica beans, but they are distinct varieties.
• They are similar to Liberica beans in that they are large in size and have a unique shape, but they have a different flavour profile.
• Excelsa beans have a lower caffeine content than Robusta beans but a higher caffeine content than Arabica beans.
• They are often used in blends with other types of coffee beans to create a unique and complex flavour profile.
• Because Exclesa beans are harvested in small quantities and are less widely known than other types of coffee beans, they can be difficult to find in some areas.

Question 6

• What is the Liberica variety of coffee beans?

Answer 6

• Liberica is a rare type of coffee bean that is grown primarily in the Phillippines and Malaysia.
• Liberica trees are larger than Arabica or Robusta trees and produce larger coffee cherries with beans that are twice the size of typical Arabica or Robusta beans.
• Liberica beans have a distinct flavour profile that is smokey and woody, with hints of floral and fruity notes.
• They are often used in blends or for speciality coffees due to their rarity and unique flavour profile.
• Liberica beans have a higher caffeine content than Arabica beans, but a lower content than Robusta beans.
• The unique flavour profile of Liberica beans makes them a popular choice for creating blends that stand out from other types of coffee.
• However, Liberica beans are not widely used compared to Arabica and Robusta beans because they are often difficult to roast and process.
• Additionally, Liberica trees are susceptible to a fungal disease known as coffee roast, which can devastate entire crops.
• For this reason, Liberica coffee is considered a rare and prized delicacy.

Question 7

• What are key points about the roasting process?

Answer 7

1. Roasting levels: There are different levels of roasting, each with its own characteristics. The most common roasting levels are light, medium, and dark. Light roasts are roasted for a shorter amount of time and result in a lighter colour, higher acidity, and milder flavour. Medium roasts are roasted for a bit longer, resulting in a slightly darker colour and a balance of acidity and flavour. Dark roasts are roasted for the longest amount of time and have a deep, rich colour, lower acidity and a strong, bold flavour.
2. Roasting equipment: Coffee beans can be roasted using a variety of equipment, from small home roasters to large commercial roasting machines. Some popular methods include drum roasting, which uses a roasting drum to heat the beans evenly, and air roasting which uses hot air to roast the beans.
3. Factors affecting the roasting process: There are a number of factors that can affect the roasting process, including the type of coffee beans being used, the roasting temperature, the length of time of the beans are roasted, and the moisture content of the beans. Experienced roasters carefuly monitor these factors to achieve the desired roast level and flavour profile.
4. Freshness: It’s important to note that coffee beans begin to lose their flavour and aroma soon after they’re roasted. For this reason, it’s generally recommended to consume coffee within a few weeks of roasting. Some coffee enthusiasts prefer to roast their own beans at home to ensure maximum freshness.

Question 8

• How to perfectly grind coffee beans?

Answer 8

1. Choose the right grinder: A burr grinder is recommended for consistent grind size. Avoid using a blade grinder, which can result in an uneven grind.
2. Determine the appropriate grind size: The size of the coffee grind will depend on the brewing method you use. For example, a coarse grind is suitable for French press coffee, while a finer grind is required for espresso. The rule of thumb is the shorter the brewing time, the finer the grind.
3. Measure the amount of coffee: The amount of coffee used will also impact the taste of your coffee. The general rule is to use 1 to 2 tablespoons of coffee for every 6 ounces (170ml) of water.
4. Set the grinder: Set the grinder to the appropriate grind size for your brewing method.
5. Grind the coffee: Grind the coffee beans just before brewing to ensure freshness. Grind only what you need for the brewing method.
6. Check the consistency of the grind: Check the grind for consistency. If the grind is uneven, adjust the grinder accordingly and try again.

Question 9

• How to perfectly store coffee beans?

Answer 9

1. Use airtight containers: Transfer your coffee beans from the original packaging to airtight containers made of glass, ceramic, or stainless steel. Airtight containers prevent sxposure to air and moisture, which can cause the coffee to go stale.
2. Avoid light: Coffee beans should be stored away from light, as exposure to light can cause the beans to degrade and lose flavour. Keep the containers in a dark and cool place, like a pantry or cabinet.
3. Don’t freeze coffee beans: While it may seem like a good idea to store coffee beans in the freezer to extend their shelf life, it’s not recommended as coffee beans can absorb moisture and odours from other foods in the freezer, affecting the flavour of the coffee.
4. Use whole beans: Buy whole-bean coffee and grind it just before brewing for maximum freshness. Whole beans also have less surface area exposed to air, which helps to maintain the flavour and aroma of the coffee.
5. Only buy what you need: Coffee beans are best consumed within two weeks of roasting, so it’s best only to buy what you need for that time period. Buying in bulk may save money, but it can also result in stale coffee if not used in time.
6. Store in small batches: If you do buy in bulk, store the coffee beans in small batches and only open a new batch when you’ve finished the previous one. This will help maintain the freshness of the beans.

Question 10

• Why is choosing the right milk for your coffee important?

Answer 10

• Choosing the right type of milk is an important factor in making a perfect cup of coffee.
• Milk can affect the flavour, texture, and nutritional content of the coffee, as well as accommodate dietary restrictions and promote sustainability.
• The flavour of the milk can enhance or detract from the coffee’s taste, while the fat content can influence the texture of the foam.
• Additionally, the nutritional content of the milk can impact the drinker’s health, making it important to choose milk that suits their dietary needs.
• Finally, choosing milk that is sustainable is essential in promoting environmental responsibility.
• By considering all these factors, coffee drinkers can make informed decisions about the milk they use to enhance their coffee-drinking experience.

Question 11

• What are the different and most common types of milk that are used by baristas?

Answer 11

1. Whole milk: Whole milk is the most common type of milk used for coffee drinks. It has a rich, creamy flavour and a higher fat content, which makes it ideal for creating a velvety texture in espresso-based drinks. It’s also a good source of calcium and vitamins.
2. Skim milk: Skim milk, also known as fat-free milk, is a popular choice for those looking for a healthier option. It has a lower fat content and fewer calories than whole milk, but it can still produce a decent foam. However, it may not provide the same rich, creamy flavour as whole milk.
3. 2% milk: 2% milk, also known as reduced-fat milk, has a lower fat content than whole milk, but is creamier than skim milk. It can produce good foam and is a good compromise for those looking for a lighter option without sacrificing too much flavour and texture.
4. Soy milk: Soy milk is a popular dairy-free alternative to cow’s milk. It has a nutty flavour and can produce a decent foam, but it may not provide the same creaminess as dairy milk. It’s also a good source of protein and low in fat.
5. Almond milk: Almond milk is another popular dairy-free alternative. It has a nutty, slightly sweet flavour and can produce a good foam. However, it can be thinner in texture and may not provide the same creaminess as dairy milk. It’s also low in calories and a good source of vitamin E.
6. Oat milk: Oat milk is a newer alternative to cow’s milk and has gained popularity in recent years. It has a slighly sweet, oaty flavour and can produce a decent foam. It’s also a good source of fibre and low in fat.