Reading material
What is the pulped/natural coffee processing method?
The refining method is attracting attention as an important process that shapes the aroma and flavor of coffee.
Among these, the refining method that has been attracting attention in recent years is "Pulped Natural."
This method, which is somewhere between the natural and washed methods and produces a unique flavor, is widely used, especially in Brazil.
This time, we will provide an easy-to-understand explanation of the process and characteristics of pulped natural coffee, its flavor trends, and how it differs from other refining methods. This will also give you some hints on how to choose coffee beans that suit your taste, so please read to the end.
What is the refining method for pulped natural?
Pulped natural is a processing method in which the pulp of the coffee cherry is partially removed, leaving the mucilage behind before drying.
The natural (dry) method involves drying the fruit while leaving the pulp intact, while the washed (wet) method involves washing away the pulp and mucilage before drying. Pulped natural is somewhere in between the two.
Main processes
2.
Pulping 3.
Drying
4.
Shelling and sorting
1. Harvesting
The coffee cherries are harvested when they are fully ripe, either by hand or by machine.
During the process of removing the cherries' skin and pulp, the mucilage is left behind.
The mucilage is left on and dried in the sun on African beds or concrete, and is stirred frequently to prevent fermentation and mold.
After they are thoroughly dried, the inner shell (parchment) is removed, and they are sorted and shipped.
By drying the fruit while leaving the mucilage intact, the sugars and flavor components from the pulp are transferred to the coffee beans, creating a complex and well-balanced flavor.
What are the characteristics of the taste of pulped natural?
Pulped and natural processed coffee beans combine the characteristics of both natural and washed coffee .
It has a fruity and sweet taste, but is not overly strong and has a well-balanced flavor.
Main flavor trends
・Mellow fruity taste ・
Clean mouthfeel ・
A balance of sweetness and richness
It has the berry-like fruitiness of a natural-made wine, but the strong flavor that comes from fermentation is suppressed.
The mucilage creates a smooth texture, and the refreshing aftertaste makes it easy to drink even when cold.
It has a well-balanced sweet flavor and medium body, and can be enjoyed black or with milk.
Brazilian beans in particular often have a nutty and chocolate flavor as well as a gentle caramel-like sweetness, making them an excellent match for espresso and cafe au lait .
Difference from other refining methods
Comparison with natural manufacturing methods
Natural is dried with the flesh still attached, giving it a rich fruity flavor and fermented aroma.
On the other hand, pulped naturals have the pulp removed and then dried, resulting in a cleaner, easier-to-drink finish.
・Natural : Powerful fruitiness and unique flavor
・Pulped Natural : Fruity yet refreshing taste
Comparison with the washed process
Washing is a method of completely removing even the mucus, rinsing with water, and then drying.
It is characterized by a bright acidity and clear flavor, but pulped natural differs in that it has a slight sweetness and richness added to it.
・
Washed :
Refreshing and light acidity
Pulped Natural :
The acidity is complemented by sweetness and body, creating a more complex flavor.
In which regions is it used?
This refining method is particularly widespread in Brazil .
Mechanical harvesting is the norm on large-scale farms, and pulped natural coffee is an ideal method for efficiently producing beans with minimal impurities.
Furthermore, in Central America, such as Costa Rica and El Salvador, it has developed into a "honey process," and variations such as "black honey" and "red honey" have emerged depending on the amount of mucilage left.
For those who want to enjoy pulped natural
Coffee made using this processing method is recommended for the following people:
・I like fruity flavors, but I don't want them to be too strong. ・I want something clean and easy to drink, yet still enjoy its sweetness and richness ・Looking for beans that go well with milk
We recommend hand drip brewing. By slightly changing the brewing temperature and time, you can adjust the coffee to your liking, such as accentuating the acidity or sweetness.
Additionally, combining it with milk brings out its mellowness, making it perfect for cafe au lait and lattes.
Summary: Paying attention to the processing method makes choosing coffee more fun
Pulped Natural is a well-balanced refining method that combines the fruitiness of the natural method with the cleanliness of the washed method.
By paying attention not only to the origin and variety but also to the processing method, you can better appreciate the depth of coffee.
The next time you choose coffee beans, be sure to pay attention to the "pulped natural" label. You're sure to discover a new favorite flavor.
