The History Of Coffee Beans Types
Coffee Bean Types: Arabica, Robusta, Liberica, and Excelsa
If you're a fan of coffee you're likely aware that different beans have distinct flavor profiles. Learn about four of the most widely used varieties: Arabica. Robusta. Liberica. and Excelsa.
Excelsa beans, a type Liberica is grown exclusively in Southeast Asia. the coffee bean shop have a fruitier and more tart flavor and are often utilized in blends of coffee to add depth.
Arabica
Arabica coffee beans account for 75% of the world's production. Arabica beans are sweeter and less acidic than Robusta. They also are available in a variety of flavours. The flavor and aroma of coffee is affected by the conditions in the conditions in which it grows and the processing methods employed.
The word "coffee" originates from the Arabic word meaning the berry. Coffee beans are actually seeds that develop inside bright red berries. It is believed ancient Ethiopian shepherds discovered that their goats were stimulated by eating the fruits. The cultivation of coffee grew quickly around the world.
Coffee beans can grow at high altitudes and thrive in cool temperatures and lots of rain. This is why Arabica coffee is thought to be the most delicious kind of coffee.
Many specialty coffee roasters and shops concentrate on finding their arabica beans in a sustainable manner by focusing on fair wages for farmers and sustainable farming practices. These companies blend arabica beans in order to create unique coffees, which can be used in various brewing methods. Blending allows for control over the aroma, flavor, body, and acidity of the coffee. It is frequently preferred to achieve a consistent and balanced taste that appeals to a larger market.
Robusta
Robusta beans are the second most sought-after kind of coffee bean in the world. They contain more caffeine per bean and are more resistant against diseases and pests. They also contain higher levels of chlorogenic acids, which are naturally occurring antioxidants. These acids can cause oxidation in the coffee's brewing process and cause undesirable flavors.
The plant itself is more durable than arabica, and can thrive in less favorable climate conditions and at lower elevations. It is able to withstand higher temperatures and does well in direct sun. It produces more coffee per plant, and it grows faster than arabica. This makes it a more economically viable crop to cultivate.
While it may seem counterintuitive, Robusta and arabica beans are often blended to make coffee blends. If you've seen the names of countries such as Uganda or Kenya on a coffee bag it's likely there's a bit of robusta as well.
The majority of roasters utilize a mix of arabica and coffee beans to cut costs and preserve quality. To preserve the integrity of the flavor, it's important to select a high-quality bean from a source that you are confident with. The best method to achieve this is to purchase your beans directly from the farmer.
Liberica
Liberica beans are more or less football shaped which distinguishes them from other varieties of coffee beans. They are characterized by a smell that is fruity, floral and smoky. They are paired with other types of coffee beans to give them a richer and more robust taste.
Liberica coffee beans are available in West Africa, Malaysia (Borneo) and Southeast Asia. They are well-adapted to humid, hot conditions and can be grown at low altitudes. They also have a much better resistance to diseases than Arabica and Robusta.
These characteristics make them ideal for growing at home. The seeds can be found on the internet from a variety of sources, but it is preferred to purchase them from local producers to ensure the quality of the beans. The ideal conditions for growing Liberica coffee plants include fertile deep volcanic soils with moderately acidic pH, and adequate annual rainfall.
Excelsa is a different kind of coffee bean. It was once classified as a distinct species, but has since been reclassified as a Liberica variant. These coffee beans with an oval shape are found on large coffee plants that range from 20-30 feet in height at medium altitudes. Their unique taste is both tart and sour, which makes them a popular choice for blends that are house-made. They have a milder flavor and lower caffeine content that is lower than Arabica or Robusta but they still have a unique depth of flavor.
Excelsa
Excelsa coffee beans aren't as widely used as Arabica and Robusta even though they are the fourth most popular. In fact, they were considered a distinct coffee plant species until 2006 when they were reclassified to an alternative to Coffea liberica var. dewevrei. They are produced in Southeast Asia today and account for 7% the world's production of coffee. These coffee beans are shaped as teardrops and have a dark, mysterious taste. They're frequently used in blends to add extra body and a full, tart, ripened fruit taste.
Arabica beans are by far the most popular and are renowned for their sweeter flavor. They thrive in warm, tropical climates and high altitudes. They have a slight acidity. When roasted and brewed correctly, they can have notes like nuts, chocolate or even fruit.
Robusta is the second most sought-after coffee around the world. It accounts for about 40% of all coffee consumed worldwide. Robusta beans are smaller and more round, but have twice the amount of caffeine as Arabica. They also have more bitterness than the other two varieties and tend to have woody and earthy undertones.
Now that you've learned the four most widely used varieties of coffee beans you can now choose the perfect cup. If you prefer a smooth and delicate flavor opt for an arabica or a blend comprised of robusta beans and arabica beans.