Ask The Roaster: 6 Common Coffee Roasting Questions
Have questions about coffee roasts, caffeine content, and proper storage? Our expert barista and roaster, Mar, answers some of the most common questions and debunks popular myths in the coffee world.
1. The Coffee Roasting Process
Mar explains how green coffee beans undergo a transformation during roasting. The applied heat brings out the natural sugars and acidity, turning the green beans brown and unlocking their desirable flavors. Without this process, coffee would remain too dense to brew, as green coffee is the seed of a fruit and needs to be roasted to create the perfect beverage.
2. How Long Does Coffee Take to Roast?
The length of the roasting process can vary depending on the roast approach, coffee density, and the heat applied. On average, roasting takes between seven to fourteen minutes, with slight variations based on the method used by the roaster.
3. Does the Roast Determine Caffeine Content?
A common misconception is that darker roasts contain more caffeine. Mar clarifies that caffeine remains stable throughout the roasting process. While lighter roasts are denser than darker ones, resulting in slightly more caffeine by volume, the difference is minimal and mostly due to the mass and density of the beans, not the roast level.
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4. Can Espresso Blends Be Used for Other Brewing Methods?
You don’t have to stick to using espresso blends only for espresso! Mar encourages experimenting with different brewing methods, as espresso blends are crafted to produce a classic, nutty, full-bodied profile but can be used for drip brewing, pour-over, or other methods. Have fun and explore different coffees for different brewing techniques.
5. Storing Roasted Coffee Properly
For long-lasting freshness, store roasted coffee in a cool, dark environment. Mar suggests keeping the coffee sealed in retail bags with a 1-way valve for best results. If you're looking for longer shelf life, consider using opaque airtight containers or even vacuum-sealing whole beans and freezing them for months, or even years, to preserve freshness.
6. How Long Does Roasted Coffee Last?
Roasted coffee has a surprisingly long shelf life. As long as it’s not overly oily (which can go rancid), whole bean coffee can last for months to even a year or two. While the coffee may lose some of its aromatic qualities over time, it will still taste good. Mar also enjoys experimenting by brewing fresh coffee and brewing the same beans months later to see how it evolves. Some companies even recommend letting lighter roasts rest for up to a month to achieve optimal flavor.
From roasting insights to storage tips, Mar’s expert advice will help you enjoy the best coffee experience, whether you’re brewing at home or storing beans for later.
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