|
|
| Author: Cory Willins |
Bins of coffee beans stretch out in seemingly endless rows. The grinder has too many settings and you are not sure of the difference between a French roast and an Italian one. How do you know which beans make the best espresso?
It is best to start with the basics. Cappuccinos and lattes are variations on espresso. They differ only in their ratio of espresso to steamed milk. Neither requires its own separate kind of bean.
The uneducated consumer could easily be overwhelmed by trying to chose from the multitude of beans on the market, but do not despair. Sellers sometimes take advantage of the common misconception that there is a multiplicity of beans to give the impression of a large and varied inventory. In reality, only two kinds of beans are available commercially: Arabica and Robusta.
Arabica is grown at high altitudes, a minimum of 2,400 feet above sea level, and has a smooth, slightly acidic taste. It is generally grown in eastern Africa and Central and South America. Robusta is grown in lower altitudes and has a more forceful, slightly bitter taste. It can be found in Southeast Asia, central Africa and Latin America.
All roasters subscribe to their own methods and beliefs about roasting, but in the basic process the green, raw coffee bean is exposed to temperatures of 480 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, usually for seven to 12 minutes. The heat tampers with the natural acidity and bitterness of the bean. The longer the roasting time, the more bitter and the less acidic the beans become.
There is no one right way to roast or grind beans for espresso. In fact, espresso is usually made with a blend of beans of different colors and consistencies. It is not uncommon for different geographical areas to favor a specific blend. For example, in northern Italy, they prefer espresso roast in the medium range, while California tastes lean toward the darker, French roast.
The chances of getting fresh beans in a supermarket are slim to none, and that is a fact when talking about pre ground coffee. Your best bet is to pay close attention to the expiration date on the package. When buying from a coffee house, the best way to guarantee freshness is to get the most popular, fastest-selling bean. The quicker the bean sells, the faster more will have to be roasted, increasing your odds of getting the most freshly roasted beans. Ideal freshness results from grinding your own fresh roasted beans immediately before brewing.
It is also important to consider the time lapses in the roasting-grinding-brewing time cycle of coffee. The condition of the equipment used and the quality of the water are also important factors. No doubt the debate over what constitutes the best beans will be endless, but in the end it is only a matter of taste. |
Author Bio:
Cory is an author for Pets 24, where you can find information about online pet supplies including pet bird supplies, and resources for dogs, cats, and fish. |
| You can search for this article using: coffee & tea basket, tea & coffee sayings, coffee & tea maker, green tea, coffee makers, hot coffee |
|
|
 |
| |
Related Articles |
| |
Gourmet Coffee: Coffee for the Connoisseurs
|
| |
How to Make Chocolate
|
| |
Dirt: It's What's For Dinner
|
| |
How to read the labels on food packaging
|
| |
Your Oven: Kitchen Ally or Public Enemy Number One?
|
| |
Diet And Nutrition Questions And Answers
|
| |
Coffee Websites and the Importance of Expert Knowledge
|
| |
6 Superfoods For Age-Defying Beauty!
|
| |
What You Need To Know About Fruit
|
| |
Automatic Espresso Machine
|
| |
|
|
|
|
| |
|
There's something at Ben & Jerry's for everyone. If you can't find a flavor there that you like, ... - Lisa Koosis |
| |
|
It is said that King Henry VIII was so fond of this particular steak cut from the loins of beef, tha ... - Max Bellamy |
| |
|
Asparagus has some dietary fiber, vitamin A, and vitamin C. It is an excellent source of the B vitam ... - Cindy Ng |
| |
|
|
| |
|
This Article features 17 popular quotes about chocolate by famous people. - Bridget Mwape |
| |
|
As in most other industries, the cookware industry are constantly coming out with new lines and inno ... - John Francis |
| |
|
See why Kona coffee is one of the most pure, highly famous and valued coffees in the world. - Gary Gresham |
| |
|
Looking for a quick and healthy snack for the kids? Here are a few tasty ideas that you can surprise ... - Deborah Shelton |
| |
|
Most of us already know breakfast is the most important meal of the day? This is especially true whe ... - Mila Sidman |
| |
|
| |
|
|
