The Science and Art of Coffee Roasting: A Journey from Green Bean to Espresso

Nov 15, 2023Felipe Agliati
Coffee roasters machine, roasting coffee beans for any coffee lovers

The Alchemy of Coffee Roasting: From Bean to Espresso Bliss

Discover the transformative magic of roasting coffee beans, and why Eight-Fifty Espresso's method stands out in the realm of coffee roasters in Australia.

Unearthing the Magic Behind Your Favorite Brew

Welcome to the world of coffee roasting, where science meets art, and raw beans transform into the aromatic elixirs that fuel our days. At Eight-Fifty Espresso, therefore we not only master this transformative process but do it with a commitment to sustainability, thanks to our partnership with TreeLabs.

The Journey of a Coffee Bean in the Roaster

Every coffee bean embarks on an enchanting journey inside the roaster, a journey marked by precision, care, and a touch of magic:

  1. The Start - Moisture Evaporation: It begins with green coffee beans, each laden with moisture. As the heat rises, this moisture evaporates, setting the stage for the magic to unfold.

  2. Colorful Transformations: Watch as the beans transition from green to yellow, then to a tantalizing brown, signaling the start of complex chemical reactions. Similarly as cooking popcorn. 

  3. The First Crack: A pivotal moment in roasting! The beans crack, expand, and reveal the lighter, more acidic flavors characteristic of a light roast.

  4. A Symphony of Flavors: Here, the Maillard reaction and caramelization interplay, creating a rich tapestry of flavors – from sweet and nuanced to bold and robust.

  5. The Second Crack: Venturing into the realm of dark roasts, some beans encounter a second crack, exuding oils and offering a bolder, more bitter profile.

Light Roast Coffee Beans vs. Dark Roast Coffee Beans

The spectrum of coffee roast levels ranges from light to dark, each offering a unique profile.

Light roast coffee beans are roasted for a shorter duration, preserving more of the bean's original character and acidity. They're ideal for filter roast coffee, offering a delicate, nuanced flavor. Consider using a pour-over method like Chemex, Hario V60, or Kalita Wave. These methods allow you to have more control over the brewing process and highlight the nuances of light roasts.

Dark roast coffee beans, on the other hand, are roasted longer, creating as a result a bold, robust flavor with less acidity. These beans are the soul of a classic espresso – rich, dark, and full-bodied. Some ideal brewing methods for this roast type are:

French Press: This method allows for a full extraction of the coffee's oils, enhancing the rich flavors of dark roasts. Use a coarse grind and a longer steeping time, around 4 minutes.

Espresso: Dark roasts work well with espresso due to their strong flavors. Use a fine grind and a shorter extraction time (around 25-30 seconds) to avoid over-extraction and bitterness.

Drip Coffee Maker: If you prefer a more convenient method, use a drip coffee maker with a slightly finer grind than you would for medium or light roasts. However you will be missing that incredible crema that espresso produces. 

The Art and Science Behind the Beans

Roasting coffee is a balancing act, influenced by:

  • Temperature and Time: The roaster's skill in managing these factors determines whether the beans will be light, medium, or dark roasted.

  • Bean Characteristics: The origin and density of the bean influence its roasting profile, with denser beans often requiring more energy.

  • Roaster Dynamics: The type and size of the roaster play a crucial role in ensuring even roasting and flavor development.

  • Cooling Precision: Post-roast cooling is vital to stabilize the beans' flavors.

Why Choose Eight-Fifty Espresso?

  • Eco-Conscious Choice: Embrace sustainability with every cup. Our Anatolian Black Coffee Bean and Kiko Bean are not just about taste; they're about making a positive environmental impact.

  • Unmatched Quality: Our beans, whether lightly roasted or dark, promise a cup that's perfectly balanced – a testament to our roasting expertise.

Conclusion: A Cup Beyond Compare

Every espresso shot from your coffee machine, crafted with our beans, is a celebration of flavor, quality, and environmental stewardship. It's not just coffee; it's a statement of excellence and responsibility.

So, next time you savor a cup of Eight-Fifty Espresso, remember, you're experiencing the culmination of a meticulous journey from bean to bliss, while also contributing to a greener planet.