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How to choose and recommend bitter coffee beans
Many people find bitterness appealing when it comes to enjoying coffee. The sharp bitterness brings out the depth of coffee, making it perfect for a change of pace, especially in the morning or during work.
For those seeking a deep flavor
In this article, we'll introduce the characteristics of bitter coffee beans, how to choose them, and the recommended varieties . If you want to enjoy an authentic bitter taste at home, be sure to read this article.
Where does the bitterness in coffee come from?
Coffee has a distinctive bitter taste, but this flavor comes from three main factors:
1. Roast level
The depth of roasting is a major factor in bitterness. The longer the beans are heated and at what temperature, the more fragrant and bitter the coffee becomes. Dark roasts such as "French Roast" and "Italian Roast" have a particularly pronounced bitter flavor.
2. Types of beans and their origins
Coffee beans are broadly divided into "Arabica" and "Robusta," with Robusta being characterized by its strong bitterness. The flavor also varies depending on the place of origin, with beans from Indonesia, India, Brazil, etc. tending to have a strong, full-bodied flavor and bitterness.
3. Extraction method
Even with the same beans, the taste can change depending on the extraction method. For example, if the water temperature is high and the extraction time is long, more components will dissolve and the coffee will taste more bitter. Conversely, cold brew coffee can sometimes have a milder bitter taste.
Tips for choosing bitter coffee beans
When looking for bitter coffee beans, pay attention to the following points:
1. Choose a dark roast
Dark roasting is the key to bringing out the bitterness. It is recommended to choose beans with the following roasting degrees:
2. Pay attention to the variety and origin of the beans
If you are looking for a bitter taste, try beans blended with Robusta or beans from the following regions:
3. Blended types are also recommended
Blends designed with bitterness in mind , such as "bitter blends" and "dark roast blends," are less likely to fail and offer a consistent flavor. Many blends combine dark roasted beans from multiple regions to achieve a good balance of aroma, richness, and bitterness.
4. Check the compatibility of your grinding method and equipment
If you want a stronger bitter taste, we recommend using extra-fine grinds (for espresso) or fine grinds (for strong drip coffee) . Try the following combinations:
3 recommended beans for enjoying bitterness
Here we will introduce three typical beans that offer a bitter taste.
1. Dark roast blend (bitter blend)
A classic type made with a blend of multiple dark roasted beans. It has a pronounced bitterness, but is not too heavy and easy to drink. It also pairs well with milk and sugar, allowing for a wide range of variations.
Features:
2. Indonesian Mandheling (French Roast)
Indonesian Mandheling has long been popular among those who like bitterness. Its deep roasting gives it a smoky, wild flavor. Its rich bitterness lingers in the aftertaste.
Features:
3. Brazil Santos (Full City Roast)
This classic drink has a strong bitterness along with a nutty and chocolatey aroma.It has a mild flavor, so it's delicious to drink black or with your own twist.
Features:
Tips for making bitter coffee taste better
If you use coffee beans with a strong bitter taste, you can enjoy it even more by adding a little creativity to how you drink it.
Enjoy the balance with milk and sugar
Dark roasted beans go extremely well with milk, so when you make a cafe au lait or cafe latte , you can taste the mellowness with a strong bitterness. We also recommend adding chocolate.
Refreshing iced coffee
Bitter beans do not lose their flavor even when iced. If you brew them using the quick-cooling method or cold brewing, the coffee may taste smooth, but it will still have a strong bitter taste.
Summary | Find your favorite "bitter drink"
The bitterness of coffee is not just "strong" but is an important element that brings depth and richness to the coffee. By paying attention to the roasting level, type of beans, and brewing method, you can find the bitterness that suits your taste.
Our shop offers a variety of beans to satisfy even those looking for bitter coffee. Take advantage of our tasting sets and other options to find your perfect bitter cup.
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