Coffee is one of the most popular and beloved products that can drive off sleep and give a boost of energy for the whole day. Many can no longer imagine their morning without a cup of hot and aromatic drink. However, few people think about the amazing and long history of its origin.
Coffee History
The true origin of the coffee drink is not completely clear, however, many sources refer to the fact that it was originally discovered in distant, hot Ethiopia in about 850. True, then people did not drink a coffee drink, but raw, not fried grains. Later, missionary monks learned to prepare a special decoction of coffee leaves and berries, which helped them stay alert and not fall asleep during long prayers. In the future, coffee spread to the territory of the Near and Middle East, as well as to Egypt, America and Indonesia.
Since the discovery of coffee beans, the recipe for its preparation has repeatedly changed. Initially, the coffee drink was prepared as a decoction of the peel of the beans. In the XV century, the Turks came up with a method of roasting grains on an open fire. They called their drink kahwa. Around the 17th century, the first coffee houses appeared in Venice, which were very popular among locals. It is known that coffee beans were brought to Venice by a doctor who accompanied the local embassy during a trip to Egypt. Later, rumors of a wonderful drink spread throughout the world. Trade relations were organized between Venice and the Eastern countries. Despite the fact that Ethiopia is considered the birthplace of coffee, it was from Egypt and Yemen that began to grow and supply it to other countries.
The main types of coffee
There are two basic types of coffee beans used on an industrial scale: arabica and robusta. Many make the mistake of confusing the appearance of coffee and its variety. But true connoisseurs know that there are only two basic types of coffee crops. They, in turn, are divided into varieties. A detailed description of each type of coffee beans will help you navigate this variety.
Arabica
The most common type. The official name is the Arabian coffee tree . According to various sources, it accounts for about 69% of the coffee produced. The arabica tree grows mainly in highlands. It can reach about 2.5 meters in length, but very capricious. These coffee trees prefer a warm, rainy climate, do not tolerate cold. The product obtained from arabica beans has a delicate and mild flavor. This is due to the high content of oils in the grain composition and a lower percentage of caffeine compared to robusta. The shelf life of coffee is largely determined by the correct storage conditions. The taste of the drink can change not only because of the variety of coffee beans, but also depending on weather conditions. On average, the fruits of this species ripen for 9 months and have a bright red or purple color. The arabica tree bears fruit once a year and gives about 5 kg of crop, from which only 1 kg of grains comes out for sale. The most popular varieties of arabica are Katura, Bourdon, Margogeep, Tipika and Aramosa.
Robusta
The second largest type of coffee bean produced and sold. Unlike Arabica, it has a more astringent, rich taste in combination with a pronounced bitterness. Robusta coffee trees reach about 10 meters in length and grow mainly in the basin of the Congo River (Africa). This plant is very unpretentious, fruiting well, regardless of weather conditions. Robusta grains are characterized by a high caffeine content and a viscous flavor. The ripening period for coffee fruits is about 11 months. The main difference between Robusta and Arabica is that the first is not used in its pure form. It is added to coffee impurities to give the drink strength. Due to the characteristic bitterness, robusta grains undergo preliminary processing. This explains the low, compared with Arabica, popularity of this species. However, due to its good productivity and unpretentiousness, robusta is a cheaper type of coffee beans. The main varieties of robusta are: Nanu, Quilu, Java Ineac, Coniglion du Brasil.
The expiration date of coffee beans. Storage conditions
This type of drink is considered the most popular and favorite among coffee connoisseurs. Ground coffee beans have the best taste and aroma compared to its other variations. However, improper storage conditions can significantly reduce the shelf life of coffee beans. An important point that must be taken into account during storage is the high hygroscopicity of the grains. In other words, they have the ability to quickly absorb extraneous odors and moisture. At the same time, their taste and aroma change. To avoid this, you need to worry about a special storage tank. An ideal option would be a lightproof packaging with a tight-fitting lid. In such dishes, the shelf life of coffee will last from three months to six months.
Storage conditions for ground coffee
Lovers of ground coffee may have some problems storing it. The fact is that coffee beans are rich in essential oils. But in the process of grinding, they quickly lose their properties. You can, of course, store ground coffee in special cans, but buying the whole beans will be the best solution. If necessary, you can grind the right amount of seeds in a coffee grinder and enjoy a fragrant and tasty drink. Since the shelf life of ground coffee is very limited, do not buy it in large quantities. It is important to avoid direct sunlight, exposure to pungent odors and moisture.
All questions about instant coffee
The shelf life of instant coffee may vary. Under the right conditions, it is stored for 3 to 24 months. It is important to observe some points that will help extend the shelf life of coffee. Storage of a soluble beverage implies the presence of the same conditions as in the case of ground and grain coffee. First of all, avoid direct contact with water. Pour coffee with a dry spoon. Depending on the packaging, the shelf life of the coffee may vary. If the consumer has purchased instant coffee in soft packaging, he must pour it into a sealed container, protected from light and odors. Some people prefer to use a refrigerator as a place to store coffee, mistakenly believing that low temperatures will help extend shelf life. This approach is incorrect. Moisture will cause coffee to lose its taste.
Cooking Tips
There are many interesting tips for making a coffee drink. Many people like to add cinnamon, bergamot, cloves and other seasonings to it. However, regardless of taste preferences, the best way is to make ground coffee in a Turk. To do this, you need to know a few key points:
- Turk or coffee pot should be clean. It is not recommended to use them for other purposes.
- Before use, it is necessary to familiarize yourself with the shelf life of coffee, as an expired product can not only spoil the mood, but also seriously affect your health.
- It is recommended to use only clean, filtered water. Using tap water can degrade the taste of the drink.
- Having a coffee grinder available, it will not be superfluous to grind several grains immediately before preparing the drink. Thus, the taste of coffee will be more saturated.
Having studied the main recommendations, you can proceed to the cooking process. To do this, pour pure water into the Turk and add a few teaspoons of coffee, depending on the desired strength. Prepare the drink should be on low heat. After the first boiling, it is necessary to remove the Turk from the stove, let the foam settle a little. This process should be repeated three times. During cooking, you can add sugar, cinnamon or other spices to taste.