Most people know coffee in its warm, comforting liquid form – but did you know that it all starts with coffee beans?
Whether you’re a coffee aficionado or just love the occasional cup of joe, understanding the basics of what coffee beans are and how they become the drink we know and love can help you get the most out of your morning brew.
Coffee beans are actually seeds found within the red or purple fruit on certain species of shrubs. Once picked and processed, these seeds are then roasted until they reach their signature rich brown color. During this process, heat is used to break down starches into simple sugars, unlocking the unique flavor profile found in every bean. Roasting also helps to create oils on the surface of each seed which adds a pleasant aroma as well as an additional layer of flavor.
The roasting process can vary greatly depending on what type of bean being used up to how darkly it is roasted. Light roasts tend to be more acidic and have a fruity taste while dark roasts have a deep, smoky flavor with subtle hints of chocolate or caramel notes. With so many options for roasting available, it’s no wonder why there are so many different types of coffees available today!
After being roasted, each bean is then ground into smaller pieces so that water can interact with them more easily during brewing. This step is extremely important because it determines how quickly the water is able to pass through the grounds; too fine and you’ll end up with an overly bitter taste while too coarse leads to a sour brew. Different grind sizes should always be chosen based on your preference as well as what type of brewing method you’re using (i.e., French press vs. espresso).
Whether you like your coffee light and sweet or dark and strong, understanding what goes into each cup starts with knowing the basics about coffee beans. From picking and processing them to grinding and roasting them just right, each step plays an important role in determining what type of flavor profile your morning cup will have – making it all worth it when that first sip hits your tongue! For those looking for more information about coffee beans, there is plenty more information out there for curious minds!