Coffee lovers know that the secret to perfect flavor lies in the quality of the coffee used. Choosing the right type of coffee can make a huge difference in the taste of your daily coffee. In this guide, we'll explore the different types of coffee, the differences between them, and how to choose the best one for you.
The difference between types of coffee
There are two main types of coffee beans used globally:
1. Arabica beans
- It constitutes about 60-70% of global production.
- It tastes smooth and slightly acidic.
- It contains less caffeine than Robusta.
- Ideal for specialty coffee lovers.
2. Robusta beans
- It contains a higher percentage of caffeine, which gives it a more bitter and strong taste.
- It grows in harsher environments compared to Arabica, making it less expensive.
- Often used in espresso to increase crema and strength.
How does roasting level affect taste?
The flavor of coffee is greatly affected by the degree of roasting, and is divided into:
1. Light roasting
- Retains the natural acidity of coffee.
- Its taste is fruity and floral.
- Suitable for preparing filtered coffee such as V60.
2. Medium roast
- Balanced between acidity and bitterness.
- It is widely used because it suits most tastes.
- Suitable for various methods such as espresso and drip coffee.
3. Dark roasting
- Bitter and strong taste with chocolate and nut flavors.
- It loses a lot of acidity in favor of a smoky flavor.
- Suitable for lovers of strong coffee such as espresso and Turkish coffee.
How to choose coffee according to the preparation method
Each method of preparing coffee has a suitable type to get the best taste:
- Espresso: Dark roast coffee with a balanced ratio of Arabica to Robusta.
- Turkish coffee: very finely ground coffee with a medium to dark roast.
- Drip Coffee (V60, Chemex): Light to medium roast coffee with pronounced acidity.
- French Press: Medium to dark roast coffee with a coarse grind.
Tips for choosing the best types of coffee
- Choose fresh coffee: The fresher the coffee, the better the flavor.
- Ensure proper storage: Store coffee in an airtight container away from light and moisture.
- Try different types: Feel free to try several types until you find one that suits your taste.
- Check out the source of the beans: Coffee grown in regions like Ethiopia, Colombia, and Brazil offers diverse and distinctive flavors.
Conclusion
Choosing the right coffee is key to perfect coffee. Whether you prefer a light, fruity flavor or a strong, bitter flavor, knowing the differences between the different types will help you make the right decision. Try several varieties until you find the one that's best for you and enjoy every sip!