The 10 Scariest Things About Coffee Beans Types
Coffee Bean Types: Arabica, Robusta, Liberica, and Excelsa You probably already know that different varieties can produce different flavors. Learn about four of the most widely used varieties: Arabica. Robusta. Liberica. and Excelsa. Excelsa beans, a type Liberica which is grown exclusively in Southeast Asia. They have a more fruity and tarter flavor, and are often added to blends of beans to enhance the flavor. Arabica Arabica coffee beans comprise 75% of the global production. Arabica beans are milder and sweeter than Robusta. They also come in different flavour profiles. The aroma and taste of coffee are influenced by the conditions under the conditions in which it grows and the processing methods employed. The word “coffee” originates from the Arabic word that means the berry. Coffee beans are actually seeds which grow in bright red berries. It is believed that ancient Ethiopian shepherds noticed that their goats were energized by eating these fruit berries. The cultivation of coffee grew rapidly around the world. Coffee beans can be grown at high altitudes, and they are capable of thriving in cold temperatures and lots of rain. This is the reason Arabica coffee is thought to be the most delicious type of coffee. Many specialty coffee shops and roasters insist on the ethical source of their arabica beans, by emphasizing fair wages for farmers and sustainable farming practices. These companies often blend arabica beans to create unique signature coffees that are well-suited for many methods of brewing. Blending can control the taste, aroma and body as well as acidity of coffee. It is typically used to create an even and balanced taste that appeals to a broad market. Robusta Robusta beans are the second most coveted type of coffee bean around the world. They have more caffeine per bean and are more protected against pests and diseases. They also contain higher levels of chlorogenic acid, which are antioxidants that occur naturally. These acids can cause oxidation in the coffee brewing and produce undesirable flavors. The plant is more resilient than the arabica and is able to grow in less favorable conditions. It can tolerate higher temperatures and thrives in direct sunlight. It grows faster and produces more coffee per plant than arabica, which makes it a more cost-effective crop to cultivate. Although it might sound odd however, arabica and robusta beans are often blended to create coffee blends. If you see names like Uganda or Kenya on a coffee bag it's possible there is also some robusta. While some roasters use exclusively arabica beans, the majority of roasters use mix the two varieties to reduce cost and maintain quality. To maintain the integrity of the flavor, it's crucial to select a top-quality bean from a source you are confident with. The best way to achieve this is to purchase your beans directly from the farmer. Liberica Liberica beans have a shape that is similar to a football, which makes them different from other coffee beans. They have a distinctive aroma that is floral and fruity with subtle smoky undertones. They are added to other types of coffee beans to give them a more rounded, more robust taste. Liberica coffee beans are available in West Africa, Malaysia (Borneo) and Southeast Asia. They can be grown at low altitudes and tolerate hot, humid climates. They also have a better resistance to diseases than Arabica and Robusta. cafe coffee beans make them perfect for home cultivation. The seeds can be found on the internet from several sources, but it's recommended to purchase locally-owned producers to ensure the quality of the beans. The ideal conditions for growing Liberica coffee are fertile deep volcano soils with moderately acidic as well as sufficient annual rainfall. Another type of coffee bean is Excelsa that was once thought to be a separate species, but was later re-classified to be a variation of Liberica. These coffee beans are oval-shaped and are found on large coffee plants, which can grow to 20-30 feet in height at moderate altitudes. Their unique flavor is tart and sour, making them a popular choice for blends that are house-made. They are also less heavy on aroma and caffeine than Arabica and Robusta and Robusta, yet they have an unusual richness of flavor. Excelsa Although they're the fourth most popular type of coffee beans, Excelsa beans aren't quite as readily available as Arabica or Robusta. In fact they were considered to be a distinct coffee plant species until 2006 when they were changed to a synonym for Coffea liberica var. dewevrei. They are grown in Southeast Asia today and account for 7% of the world's production of coffee. The coffee beans are shaped in the shape of teardrops and possess a dark, eerie taste. They're typically used in blends to add body and a luscious, tart, ripened fruit taste. Arabica beans are by far the most popular and are renowned for their sweeter taste. They thrive in tropical and warm environments and at high altitudes. They also have a bit of acidity. If properly brewed and roasted they can be flavored like chocolate, nuts or even fruit. Robusta is the second most adored coffee around the world. It is responsible for around 40% of all coffee consumed around the world. These beans are smaller and rounder but they have twice the amount of caffeine as Arabica. They are also more bitter than the other two types and have an earthy, woody flavor. After you've learned about the four most common types of coffee beans you can now choose the perfect cup. If you're looking for a silky, delicate flavor, opt for an arabica or a blend of robusta and arabica beans.