Coffee once an exotic drink has now become a common drink and a vital part of many people's day. If you have graduated from merely viewing coffee as a caffeine fix to a rich and complex drink then you will want to learn more about the beans that go into making your daily cup of Joe. Well the first fact you will learn that the precious beans that make your daily brew is in fact a seed and not a bean at all.



Location, Location, Location

When it comes to choosing your favourite coffee beans it all comes down to where the coffee beans were grown. Generally beans can be classified into either the Arabica or Robusta species of bean. However you will see that most coffee comes labeled according to where it was grown.

This is because the soil, environment, and climate all influence the taste of the coffee at the end of the day. You will find that the Robusta variety is more commonly available and may also be cheaper. If you would like to taste some of the finer beans then you will want to buy Arabica for your next cup of coffee.

The Roast

Equally important to the location and the quality of the coffee beans you buy is the type of roasting process the beans undergo. Different types of roasts determine the flavor and intensity of the coffee. If your taste buds do not like the stronger coffees then look for an American roast. This is a nice middle ground to start appreciating coffee. This type of roast produces a medium bodied coffee and is found in most homes across America.

If you are feeling adventurous and would like to venture into the world of more full bodied roasts then look for Brazilian roast beans. This is a darker bean than the American and has a fuller flavor. If the Brazilian roast is still not strong enough for you then you can try beans that have been French roasted.

The first thing you will notice when buying French roast beans is the color, a French roasted bean will have a color that is similar dark chocolate. When you make coffee with this type of bean you will see a little of the bean oil on the surface of your drink, this is perfectly normal and means that you have bought well roasted beans.

When you have graduated to a true coffee connoisseur then you will appreciate the Espresso roast. The espresso roast will have a very distinct flavor and some people can't handle the taste. This comes from the roasting process where the beans are nearly burnt. Espresso is usually served in small cups because it produces very strong coffee.

The way your coffee beans are prepared will also determine the taste and flavor of the coffee. This is an important step and there are now many ways to enjoy your favorite drink. Italian coffees have become very popular and most restaurants and cafes will serve coffee this way, whether cappuccinos, lattes, or macchiato.

Storing Beans

If you have gone to the trouble of selecting the right bean for you and your taste buds then it would be a shame to waste the precious beans with bad storage. Whenever possible you should buy whole roasted beans. You can buy whole beans in bulk and freeze what you cannot use immediately for months.

On the other hand you will only be able to keep ground coffee beans for a few weeks in an airtight container. So to prolong the life of quality beans make sure to put off grinding until you actually want to drink the coffee.