Are you looking to perfect your brew? Start out by finding the ideal coffee bean to suit your preferences. A variety of factors go into choosing the best coffee beans for the job, but being armed with the right knowledge can make the decision-making process easier. Use this handy guide to find the right beans for the perfect cup of coffee.
Know the difference between Arabica and Robusta
There are two main types of coffee beans: Arabica and Robusta. Arabica beans are the most common type of coffee bean and are renowned for their smoother, slightly sweeter taste. These beans often have underlying notes of fruits, berries, chocolate, and sugar. Robusta coffee beans, on the other hand, have far lower acidity levels, making them much less sweet. They are grown primarily in Vietnam and Indonesia. They contain approximately 25 percent more caffeine than Arabica beans, making them the best coffee beans for strong coffees and caffeine junkies.
Pick between single-origin or blended
The difference between single-origin beans and blended beans is exactly what you’d guess: single origin beans come from one single region or estate, while blends are a mix of various single-origin beans. The difference between the two is found in the taste. Single-origin beans typically make for a bolder, more acidic flavour. Blends combine different flavour notes for a more exciting – yet more balanced – flavour profile. Most wholesale coffee beans are blends as they are typically more consistent in taste and can be produced in much larger batches.
Choose your caffeine level
Caffeine levels can directly affect the taste of a cup of coffee and can be determined by the colour of the coffee bean; this is why wholesale coffee beans often use colour-related identifiers such as ‘dark roast’ or ‘light roast’. The lighter the roast, the higher the level of caffeine. For reference, espresso is generally made from medium roast coffee beans (also known as city roast). Research shows that caffeine tempers the taste buds, making food and drink taste less sweet; thus, if you want your coffee to have lighter, sweeter tones, opt for a darker roast. If you prefer your coffee sharper and stronger, a light roast is a roast for you.
Think about your brewing method
The way in which you’re brewing your coffee matters. Various roasts will benefit differently between methods of brewing. Here’s the breakdown of which wholesale coffee beans are best for your method:
- Aeropress or French press: Use a medium blend, just like you would for espresso
- Cold-brew or filter: stick to light blends with fruity notes
- Espresso machine: medium roast are usually lauded as the best coffee beans for espresso. However, lighter beans can work well in espresso machines too, especially if they have earthier or spicier notes
- Stovetop: if you use a stovetop method such as a Moka pot, opt for a darker roast. Single-origin blends work especially well on the stovetop
Source: http://blogs.rediff.com/daveblogger/2021/08/09/a-guide-to-choosing-the-best-coffee-beans-for-the-perfect-cup-of-coffee/