What Is The Heck Is Coffee Beans Types?
Coffee Bean Types: Arabica, Robusta, Liberica, and Excelsa
You probably already know that different types produce distinct flavors. Learn about four of the most common varieties: Arabica. Robusta. Liberica. and Excelsa.
Excelsa beans, which are a variety of Liberica which is grown exclusively in Southeast Asia. They have a tangier, more tart flavor and are often used in blends of coffee for added depth.
Arabica
Arabica is the most sought-after coffee worldwide with 75% of all global coffee beans produced. Arabica beans are sweeter and less acidic than Robusta and 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" is derived from the Arabic word for berry and coffee beans are actually fruit seeds that are cultivated inside bright red berries. It is believed ancient Ethiopian shepherds discovered that their goats were stimulated by eating these berries. The cultivation of coffee spread quickly around the world.
Coffee beans can be grown at high altitudes, and they are able to thrive in cold temperatures and plenty of rain. This is why Arabica coffee is thought to be the best tasting type of coffee.
Many specialty coffee shops and roasters are focused on the ethical sourcing of arabica beans. They focus 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 is a way to control the aroma, flavor and body as well as the acidity of the coffee and is typically preferred to create a consistent and balanced taste that appeals to a larger market.
Robusta
Robusta beans (Coffea canephora) are the second most commonly used variety of coffee bean cultivated worldwide. They have more caffeine per bean and are more resistant against diseases and pests. They also have higher levels of chlorogenic acids, which are antioxidants found naturally. These acids can cause oxidation during the brewing process of coffee and create undesirable flavors.
The plant itself is more robust than arabica, and can thrive in less favorable climate conditions and at lower elevations. It can withstand temperatures that are higher and does well in direct sun. It produces more coffee per plant and is growing faster than arabica. This makes it a more efficient crop to grow.
Although it may sound contradictory however, arabica and robusta beans are often blended to make coffee blends. If you've noticed the names of countries such as Uganda or Kenya listed on a bag of coffee, it's likely that there's a bit of robusta too.
While some roasters exclusively use arabica beans, the majority use mix both varieties to lower costs and maintain quality. To maintain the integrity of the flavor, it's important to select a premium bean from a source you are confident with. This can be done by purchasing your beans direct from farmers.
Liberica
Liberica beans have a shape that is like a football, which makes them different from other types of coffee beans. They have a distinctive aroma that is fruity and floral with subtle smoky undertones. They are often added to other types of coffee beans to give them a more rounded and more robust taste.
Liberica coffee beans are grown in West Africa and Malaysia (Borneo) as well as in Southeast Asia. They are resistant to hot, humid climates and can grow at low altitudes. They also have a better resistance to disease than Arabica and Robusta.
These qualities make them perfect for home cultivation. Online, you can purchase the seeds from many sources. However, it's recommended to purchase the beans from local producers in order to ensure high-quality. The ideal conditions for the cultivation of Liberica coffee plants include fertile deep volcanic soils, with moderately acidic pH as well as sufficient annual rainfall.
Another kind of coffee bean is Excelsa, which was once thought to be a separate species, but was re-classified as an alternative to Liberica. These oval-shaped coffee beans are found on large coffee plants, which can grow to 20-30 feet in height at medium altitudes. Their distinctive taste is sweet and tart, making them a popular choice for house blends. They have a milder aroma and caffeine content than Arabica or Robusta but they still have a distinctive depth of flavor.
Excelsa
Excelsa coffee beans aren't as well-known as Arabica and Robusta yet they're the fourth most popular. In fact, they were considered a distinct coffee plant species until 2006 when they were changed to an alternative to Coffea liberica var. dewevrei. Today, they're grown mainly in Southeast Asia and account for 7 percent of the world's production of coffee. These coffee beans have the shape of teardrops and possess a dark, eerie taste. They're frequently used in blends to provide extra body and a rich tart, ripe fruit taste.
Arabica beans are the most sought-after, and are known for having an apricot-like flavor. coffee beans shop thrive at high altitudes and are able to thrive in warm, tropical climates. They also have a bit of acidity. If properly roasted and brewed, they can have notes of chocolate, nuts, or even fruit.
Robusta is a close second to Arabica and accounts for around 40 percent of the world's coffee. These beans are smaller and more round however, they contain twice the amount of caffeine as Arabica. They are also bitterer than the other two varieties and have an earthy and woody taste.
After having a better understanding of the four most popular varieties, it's now time to select your favorite brew. If you're looking for a silky mild flavor, go for an arabica or a blend of robusta and arabica beans.