The Ultimate Specialty Coffee Advisory
We have heard a lot about how specialty coffee is the beverage to power up as well as relax. It is a divine drink that helps humans stay in their element. While the light roasts provide energy, the darker ones calm down our nerves. What if I tell you that there are ways to amp up these feelings? What if I give you answers to rarely-asked questions to make your life more fulfilling?
This blog is for all the people who buy coffee beans online on a regular basis and wish to relish their true potential. We make java in our own ways and there’s a plethora of information out there that can help us make our coffee times paradisiacal. There are so many variables to understand and implement. Lets us begin with the basics and move ahead one step at a time.
Specialty Coffee Definition In Simpler Words
The highest grade of coffee. Specialty coffee is a beverage made of hand-picked Arabica coffee beans. It scores 80 or above on the SCA scale (Specialty Coffee Association). There are several factors involved in grading it. One of the basic parameters of judging a cup of joe is by checking out its impurities. A specialty coffee cup shouldn’t possess any primary impurities and less than 5 secondary impurities. The norms are set by experts and tend to remain strict.
There are four types of roasts. Light roasts, medium roast, medium-dark roast, and dark roast. It defines the tone of java and the caffeine level. While the former contains high amounts of caffeine and acidity, the latter is sweeter and less caffeinated. The coffee roasters utilize various natural ingredients to make their java taste unique. In the case of OKBF, the specialty coffee beans include ingredients such as Brazil nuts, grapefruit, oak, hazelnut, plum, anise, and more.
Each coffee product sold by Ok But First is single-origin, artisan-crafted, and contains responsibly sourced beans from top-notch farms in Brazil, Columbia, & Central-South America.
The Golden Ratio Of Specialty Coffee
Complex flavors rely on balance. People say perfection is a myth and they are right. But what about getting as near to it as possible? Proximity to good things translates into better results.
Coming back to the topic, I’m talking about the “WATER-COFFEE” ratio. One could use the best coffee beans, top-class equipment, and finest coffee filter, but if he/she does not understand this ratio, the resultant java will turn out subpar. So what is the golden ratio? Well, in case you are making espresso in a basket, it is 2:1. If you take 16 grams of coffee, we recommend using 32ml water. This also depends upon the time of brewing. The ideal limit is 30 seconds.
Different Types Of Specialty Coffee
One can brew this beverage in many ways. It all rests on what type of specialty coffee makes your day better. There are various flavors and tones of coffee beans available in the market, and so is true for the type of methods to prepare them! The most famous variations are Espresso, Americano, Long Black, Cappuccino, Flat White, Macchiato, Latte, and Mocha.
The Top 6 Ways To Make Specialty Coffee Are:
1) French Press
An immersion brewing method, that involves hot water and a plunger to separate the grounds from the brewed java. Remember to not push too hard, or too slow.
2) Drip/Machine-drip
Brewed by hot water passing steadily over roasted, ground coffee beans. The filter keeps them away from the brew and helps absorb their oils, flavors, and essences.
3) Chemex
An infusion method, similar to drip coffee. The only major difference is in the type of filter being used in the process. Chemex filters are 20-30% thicker and thus, more effective.
4) Siphon
A process that involves fundamentals of vacuum and vapor pressure. There are two chambers, one of which has boiled water and the other coffee beans.
5) Aeropress
A rapid, total immersion brewing process involves pouring a measured amount of nearly boiling water under pressure through finely grounded coffee beans.
6) Turkish
It is the easiest way to make a cup of joe from freshly roasted coffee beans. Take a few beans, grind them, and boil them in a vessel known as Cezve or a usual kettle.
3 Best Types Of Milk For Specialty Coffee
From the taste to the texture, the type of milk you use makes a huge difference. The question of whether to use dairy or non-dairy is one that makes many minds boggle. Let’s check out the list to make your decision simpler. Here are the 3 best types of milk for your specialty coffee.
1) Soy Milk
The number one alternative as it is ideal for those with dairy allergies. Moreover, it is the most easily available type of milk. No after-taste helps feel all the coffee tones.
2) Almond Milk
Surveys suggest that this alternative will surpass the former in the coming years as it comes in multiple flavors, sweetened/unsweetened varieties, and has a smooth texture.
3) Oat Milk
A fitness fan favorite. This milk type provides many health benefits, as well as, loads of fiber content. It contains low amounts of fat and substantial protein components.
4 Types Of Specialty Coffee Filters
The most common question asked by people who buy coffee beans online is what type of filter should they use to brew. Well, there are basically four types of filters in the market.
1) Paper Coffee Filter
Most of the world uses these types of filters to brew their daily java. They are one-time use and provide consistent brew. They require a holder or device to prop.
2) Metal Coffee Filter
Incredibly easy to clean and one of the most durable coffee filters on the market. The only con is that the pre-cut holes are often not fine enough to keep out finer grinds.
3) Cloth Coffee Filter
It does an amazing job at absorbing oils resulting in a clean crisp flavor. It is the oldest way of filtering specialty coffee and you should give it a whirl if you are into feeling the history. The filter is hard to clean though as it requires soaking and scrubbing.
4) Acrylic Coffee Filter
The best option for true Arabica coffee beans enthusiasts. It is reusable and extracts fine, creating an experience fit for royalty. The filter may feel expensive to a few.
Ways To Store Specialty Coffee Beans
The best way to keep the freshly roasted coffee beans is by keeping them in an opaque, light-proof jar. Well, in case you wish to avoid that expense, use a vacuum-sealed pack bag with a one-way air valve. Most coffee beans come in these types of bags. The valve allows roasted coffee beans to breathe while keeping them safe from oxidation. Do not ever put your prized premium coffee beans in the freezer. The condensation of molecules will ruin your brew!
Things To Remember When You Buy Coffee Beans Online
The three main factors one should look for while buying coffee beans online are authenticity, flavor, and origin. Check out the source of the online vendor, whether the beans have gone through a well-curated roasting process, and the type of tone. Moreover, ensure that it is 100% Arabica and check out the brand’s online presence, as well as, testimonials.
Conclusion
Finally, I hope that this blog helped you gain a fresher perspective on specialty coffee. In case you are seeking 100% Arabica coffee beans in the US, visit the Ok But First web store right away. The coffee products on offer come from exclusive farms and include special ingredients.
One can use the coffee calculator on the site to measure his/her caffeine needs to place an apt order. Become a prized member of the elite Coffee Club and enjoy benefits such as discounts, free delivery, special batches, and more. The website also showcases a range of merchandise to flaunt your eternal love for coffee. They look and feel great on the skin and do not cost much.
In the end, wish you loads of happiness and cups of joe!
