Bins of coffee beans stretch out in seemingly endless rows. The grinder has too many settings and you are not sure of the difference between a French roast and an Italian one. How do you know which beans make the best espresso?
First of all, it is important to note that cappuccino is merely a variation on espresso. The same is true with lattes. These drinks are simply varying ratios of espresso and steamed milk, and do not require a separate type of bean.
The uneducated consumer could easily be overwhelmed by trying to chose from the multitude of beans on the market, but do not despair. Sellers sometimes take advantage of the common misconception that there is a multiplicity of beans to give the impression of a large and varied inventory. In reality, only two kinds of beans are available commercially: Arabica and Robusta.
Arabica is a high altitude bean, grown at 2,400 feet above sea lever or higher, characterized by a smooth, yet slightly acidic, taste. It is usually grown in eastern Africa and Central and South America. Robusta grows in the lower altitudes of Southeast Asia, central Africa and Latin America and has a more potent, sometimes bitter taste.
All roasters subscribe to their own methods and beliefs about roasting, but in the basic process the green, raw coffee bean is exposed to temperatures of 480 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, usually for seven to 12 minutes. The heat tampers with the natural acidity and bitterness of the bean. The longer the roasting time, the more bitter and the less acidic the beans become.
There is no one right way to roast or grind beans for espresso. In fact, espresso is usually made with a blend of beans of different colors and consistencies. It is not uncommon for different geographical areas to favor a specific blend. For example, in northern Italy, they prefer espresso roast in the medium range, while California tastes lean toward the darker, French roast.
You are not likely to find the freshest beans in a grocery store, and you can bet on that when in comes to pre ground coffee. The best you can do in that situation is pay close attention to the expiration date. You should have better luck finding fresh beans in a coffee house, especially one that roasts in house. Naturally, they will need to roast more of the most popular, fastest selling bean more often, and it is probably the most popular for a reason. Perfect freshness comes from grinding your own just roasted beans immediately before brewing.
Though it is a great place to start, high quality beans do not guarantee the best espresso. Time lapses in the roasting-grinding-brewing process, the condition of the equipment and the quality of the water are also important factors. The debate over what makes the best espresso will likely be eternal, but no one knows better than your taste buds. |
