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When to buy? How much to buy? Shopping tips to keep coffee beans fresh
Freshness is key to enjoying the aroma and flavor of coffee to the fullest. Freshly roasted beans have a rich aroma and delicate flavor, but these gradually fade over time. Therefore, when purchasing coffee beans, it's important to consider when to buy, how much to buy, and the condition of the beans. In this article, we'll introduce shopping tips to enhance your everyday coffee experience.
Be mindful of the time since roasting
Coffee beans are said to be at their peak freshness for a few weeks after roasting. The best balance of aroma and flavor is said to be between 3 and 10 days after roasting . When purchasing, it's important to check whether the roasting date is listed and choose beans that are as fresh as possible.
Freshly roasted beans also contain a lot of carbon dioxide, so it's best to let them sit for a few days to let the gas settle before using them. This means that freshly roasted beans aren't necessarily the "most delicious," but rather that they need to be properly matured before they can be used. Determining this delicate timing is the first step to brewing a cup of coffee at home that tastes just like it would at a cafe.
The importance of buying the right amount
Coffee beans are easily affected by factors such as air, humidity, light, and heat, and their flavor can deteriorate significantly depending on the storage environment. Therefore, it is best not to buy too much at once, and instead aim for an amount that can be consumed within two weeks to one month . Beans are especially susceptible to deterioration during hot and humid seasons.
Here are some things to consider when deciding how much to buy:
By determining the amount you purchase that suits your lifestyle, you can enjoy a fresh taste every time.
The condition of the beans is also an important factor in making decisions
Coffee beans can be purchased as whole beans or ground (powder), but from the standpoint of freshness, it is overwhelmingly recommended to buy them as whole beans . When ground, the surface area increases, which causes oxidation and deterioration of the aroma to occur rapidly.
By purchasing whole beans and grinding them at home just before drinking, you can maximize the rich aroma and flavor. It may seem like a hassle on busy mornings, but this little step will make a big difference to your coffee experience. Recently, there are many easy-to-use electric grinders on the market, making it easy for even beginners to get started.
Plan your shopping time
Coffee beans are a staple for people who drink coffee every day, but if you buy them at the wrong time, you may find yourself in a situation where the beans go bad before you can finish them or run out. Therefore, we recommend purchasing coffee at a set frequency or pre-ordering from your favorite roaster.
Not only does it save you the trouble of having to go shopping every time, but it also ensures that you get freshly roasted beans. Another fun part is being able to communicate with the roaster's staff and have them help you choose the beans that suit your taste.
Even in the midst of busy days, by making it a habit to regularly check the condition of your beans and stock, you can always have delicious coffee on hand. Furthermore, being aware of the freshness of your beans will make you more sensitive to changes in the taste of your coffee, leading to a deeper enjoyment of your coffee.
Preparing the storage environment
Along with shopping tips, you should also consider the storage environment. To maintain freshness, purchased coffee beans should be stored away from light, air, moisture, and heat . If the packaging they came in is made of a zip-top barrier material, there's no problem using it as is, but if you transfer the beans to a different storage container, choose one that is light-blocking and airtight.
It is recommended to store it in a cool, dark place out of direct sunlight rather than in the refrigerator or freezer. The refrigerator contains moisture and is prone to condensation due to temperature differences each time you take it out, so it is not a recommended storage method. It is best to store it at room temperature, and ideally, choose a place with good ventilation and a stable temperature .
Another option is to freeze all unopened beans in a separate container from the one you open and close every day, and then portion them out when you need them. Try to find ways to preserve freshness within the bounds of what is reasonably possible at home.
summary
To fully experience the appeal of coffee, not only the quality of the beans but also how you buy and store them are important factors. If you reexamine your daily coffee experience based on the criteria of when, how much, and in what condition you buy, you may discover something new.
By paying attention to the roast date, buying the right amount frequently, and paying attention to storage, you can make your daily cup of coffee even more fulfilling. The act of buying coffee carefully is itself the first step to deepening the taste. Even in the midst of a busy daily life, by changing your awareness just a little, coffee will become even more delicious and special.
