Your Ultimate Guide to Buying Coffee Beans
Buying coffee isn’t as simple as it sounds. You can’t just grab whatever’s on the shelf, dump it into a machine, and hope it tastes better than instant. There are regions, roasts, notes, and so much more to consider.
If you’re tired of wasting money on beans that taste burned or just not appealing to your taste buds, this guide is for you. Let’s break down the essentials of buying coffee beans – what to look for, what to avoid, and how to find your perfect match.
Type of Beans
There are two main types of coffee beans, and you need to know the basics of each to choose one.
Arabica beans are smooth and aromatic. They are lower in caffeine but higher in quality. Also, they might taste a little nutty or fruity.
Robusta, on the other hand, is much higher in caffeine. These beans also taste stronger and more bitter than Arabica beans. They are also cheaper, though some coffee drinkers prefer smoother, functional alternatives like amazon mushroom coffee for a more balanced experience.
Roast Date
Coffee starts losing flavour a few weeks after roasting, so if you see a dusty bag of coffee beans at the back of your cabinet, toss it away.
Freshness also enhances the flavour. Next time you’re shopping for coffee beans, make sure to:
- Look for the roast date. It’s different from the expiration date.
- Avoid packaging with no real dates and just a “best before.”
You can even try roasting your own beans at home.
Roast Level
Choosing the right roast level is also important. Ask yourself if you prefer light, medium or dark roast.
Light roast has higher acidity, more complex flavours, and subtle notes of floral, citrus, or berry. Medium roast has a more balanced flavour, smoother body, and is often the sweet spot for most coffee drinkers.
Finally, dark roast is bold, toasty, and sometimes smoky. Think of your classic espresso.
Ethical and Sustainable Levels
The beans you choose and where you buy them from can have a direct and serious impact on coffee farmers and even the enviroment.
To support fair wages, sustainable farming, and environmental care, look for beans that are sourced ethically. Some packages have written indicators on it that tell if the beans are organic and certified.
Not only does choosing sustainability improve your experience, but it also ensures better conditions for farmers.
Try and Experiment
You probably won’t find your dream beans on the first try. Coffee is personal. Taste preferences are personal. What one person calls “smooth and nutty,” another might call “burned and bitter.”
So, buy smaller bags to experiment. Find out what you like. Try different roasters. And if you’re feeling a little fancy, maybe even keep a tasting journal.
And once you find your favorite beans, consider subscribing directly to the roaster. This way, you can get fresher beans on repeat and usually at a discount. Basically, a win-win situation.
Final Thoughts
Buying the right coffee beans isn’t supposed to be rocket science, but it’s definitely a step up from grabbing whatever is cheapest on the shelf. With the right knowledge, you can level up your brew from “just okay” to “wow, this is good.”