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What is the body of coffee? Basic knowledge for savoring the depth of flavor
When talking about the taste of coffee, one word that often comes up alongside "acidity," "bitterness," and "sweetness" is "body."
However, many of you may have wondered, "What exactly is the body of coffee?"
In this article, we will provide a clear explanation of the body of coffee and show you how to use this information to choose and drink coffee.
Body refers to the weight and texture of the drink
In the case of coffee, "body" simply refers to the weight, texture, and richness of the coffee in your mouth. It is not a matter of the strength or richness of the flavor, but rather a concept closer to the tactile impression, such as the thickness and smoothness felt on the tongue, and the length of the aftertaste.
For example, if you compare milk with water, you'll likely find the milk to be "heavier." In the same way, coffee's body is often described as "light," "medium," or "heavy."
Light body
Light-bodied coffee is clean, easy to drink, and has a refreshing impression.
The aftertaste quickly fades away, giving it a light, refreshing flavor that makes it easy to drink multiple cups. This is a characteristic often found in lightly roasted or washed (wet) processed beans.
Medium body (medium body)
It's somewhere between light and full, and has a well-balanced taste.
Its harmonious balance of acidity, sweetness, and bitterness makes it a great match for a variety of foods, making it the perfect coffee for everyday use.
Heavy body (full body)
Full-bodied coffee has a rich, solid flavor that clings to the tongue and leaves a lingering aftertaste.
It is often found in dark roasted or naturally (dry) processed beans, and goes well with milk and sugar.
What factors affect body strength?
The body of coffee varies greatly depending on the type of beans, roasting level, processing method, and even extraction method.
Let's take a look at how each element affects the other.
1. Production area and varieties
The strength of the coffee beans varies depending on their origin and variety.
For example, Ethiopian Arabica is characterized by its floral and light body, while Indonesian Mandheling is full-bodied and heavy on the palate.
Climate, soil, and growing environment have a huge impact on the body.
2. Refining method (process)
The "refining method" - how the pulp is removed from the coffee beans - also affects the body.
Washed beers tend to have a clean, light body, while natural beers tend to retain the flavor of the fruit, resulting in a rich, heavy body.
Honey Process has some intermediate characteristics.
3. Roast level
The higher the roast level, the easier it is for the oils and compounds contained in the beans to be extracted, resulting in a coffee that may seem full-bodied.
Light roasts tend to be light-bodied, while dark roasts tend to be full-bodied.
4. Extraction method
Methods that use metal filters, such as French presses, extract more fines and oils, resulting in a richer, full-bodied flavor.
On the other hand, extraction methods that involve fine filtration, such as paper drip, often result in a clear, light-bodied coffee.
Choosing coffee becomes more fun when you pay attention to your body
The body is one of the criteria for choosing depending on your preferences.
Choose a light, refreshing drink to wake you up in the morning, or a full-bodied drink to enjoy in the afternoon.It also pairs well with food.
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Light body : Goes well with light dishes such as fruits and salads
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Medium body : Perfect for everyday meals such as bread and sweets
- Heavy-bodied : Goes well with chocolate, nuts, and rich sweets
Summary: Understanding the body will enhance your coffee enjoyment
"Coffee body" is an important element that describes the weight and texture of the flavor . It is not just the strength of the flavor, but also the part that affects the drinkability, such as the mouthfeel and aftertaste, and the impression it gives can change greatly depending on the choice of beans and the brewing method.
Knowing the body that suits your taste will broaden your coffee choices and make your daily cup of coffee even more special. So, the next time you drink coffee, try to think, "What kind of body does this coffee have?"
