September 21, 2023

Everything You Need To Know About Roasting Coffee

By Zavo Coffee
Everything You Need To Know About Roasting Coffee

What Is Coffee Roasting?

Coffee roasting is the process of transforming green coffee beans into the aromatic and flavourful beans that we use to brew our favourite cup of coffee. It involves applying heat to the beans to bring out their natural oils and flavours. At ZAVO our coffee is freshly roasted to guarantee the best quality products we can deliver. We pride ourselves on the luxury experience and exquisite quality.

4 bags off coffee in hessian bags, one is green pre-roasted beans and the other 3 are coffee beans post-roasting, they are on a wooden floor.

What Is The Process?

During the roasting process, the green coffee beans go through several stages of transformation. First, they start to lose moisture and turn yellow. Then, they undergo a chemical reaction called the Maillard reaction, which gives them their characteristic brown colour and releases a variety of aromatic compounds. Finally, the beans reach the desired roast level, which can range from light to dark, depending on the desired flavour profile. At ZAVO we create a range of blends, from medium to dark, there is something for everyone.

Is Process Different For Decaffeinated? 

For our Hawk blend which is a Medium Roast Decaffeinated blend we use The Swiss Mountain Water Process, to process the beans. A batch of beans are soaked in hot water to remove the caffeine. Following this, the solution passes through many filters which collect large, small and oily molecules that contain flavour. The caffeine is removed through the addition of more coffee beans being added to this solution. The flavours stay within the beans whilst the caffeine is removed by osmosis.

Shop the Hawk blend here >

Spilling The Beans

Q: What is the best roast level for coffee?

A: The best roast level for coffee depends on personal preference. Lighter roasts tend to have a brighter and more acidic flavour, while darker roasts like our Cockatoo blend have a bolder and more robust flavour.

Shop the Cockatoo blend here >

Q: How long does the coffee roasting process take?

A: The coffee roasting process typically takes between 10 and 20 minutes, depending on the desired roast level and the type of coffee beans being roasted.

Q: Can I roast coffee at home?

A: Yes, it is possible to roast coffee at home using a variety of methods, such as using a popcorn popper, a dedicated coffee roaster, or even a cast-iron skillet. However, it requires careful attention to temperature and timing to achieve the desired roast level.

By understanding the technical aspects of coffee roasting, you can appreciate the art and science behind your favourite cup of coffee. Whether you prefer a light, medium, or dark roast, the roasting process plays a crucial role in bringing out the unique flavours and aromas of each coffee bean.