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Do you know your coffee?

BY RIHAAB MOWLANA

Many of us love our coffee, so much so that it’s part of our daily routine. But our knowledge about coffee is mostly limited, at best. Do you know your Arabica from your Robusta? Still confused about the difference between a Capuccino and a Latte? We’re here to help!

Types of coffee beans:

Arabica: Arabica beans are by far the most popular type of coffee beans, making up about 60% of the world’s coffee. These tasty beans originated many centuries ago in the highlands of Ethiopia, and may even be the first coffee beans ever consumed! Arabica coffee beans are considered the most high-quality variety. They’re known for their smooth, complex flavour and distinct lack of bitterness.

Robusta: The second most popular type of coffee bean is Robusta. This bean originated in sub-saharan Africa and is now grown primarily in Africa and Indonesia. It’s also particularly popular in Vietnam and is often mixed into coffee blends. It’s a less expensive variety, making it a very budget-friendly choice for roasters. Robusta coffee is harsher and more bitter.

Liberica: Native to central and western Africa – specifically Liberia, hence its name – Coffea liberica is prized for its piquant floral aroma and bold, smoky flavour profile. This hardy species is frequently mixed with other varieties to add body and complexity, but rarely receives any credit. Liberica coffee has a controversial and polarizing reputation for wild inconsistency. Those who’ve tried this rare variety either love it or hate it. Some coffee drinkers adore the unusual, nutty, woody flavour and sneaky backbite on the finish. Others compare the flavour to burnt garbage.

Excelsa: The fourth major type of coffee bean is called Excelsa. Though it was once considered a separate coffee species, scientists recently reclassified it as a Liberica variant. They combine light roast traits like tart notes and fruity flavours with flavours that are more reminiscent of dark roasts. They’re also lighter on aroma and caffeine — while maintaining an unusual depth of flavour. You can sometimes find these unusual beans in blends because they add complexity.

Types of coffee drinks:

Black. Ground coffee beans steeped in hot water, served warm. Also Known as cafe noir. Since it doesn’t include milk or sugar, the quality of coffee is especially important.

Latte. The latte is comprised of a shot of espresso and steamed milk with just a touch of foam. It can be ordered plain or with a flavour shot of anything from vanilla to pumpkin spice. Cappuccino. Cappuccino is a latte made with more foam than steamed milk, often with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or cinnamon on top.

Sometimes you can find variations that use cream instead of milk or ones that throw in a flavour shot, as well.

Americano. With a similar flavour to black coffee, the americano consists of an espresso shot diluted in hot water.

Espresso. An espresso shot can be served solo or used as the foundation of most coffee drinks, like lattes and macchiatos. Espresso is a concentrated form of coffee served in small, strong shots.

Doppio. A double shot of espresso.

Cortado. A cortado is the perfect balance of espresso and warm steamed milk. The milk is used to cut back on the espresso’s acidity.

Red Eye. A full cup of hot coffee with an espresso shot mixed in. Galão. This hot coffee drink is closely related to the latte and cappuccino. The only difference is it contains about twice as much foamed milk, making it a lighter drink compared to the other two.

Lungo. A lungo is a long-pull espresso. The longer the pull, the more caffeine there is.

Macchiato. The macchiato is another espresso-based drink that has a small amount of foam on top.

Mocha. The mocha is a chocolate espresso drink with steamed milk and foam.

Ristretto. Ristretto is an espresso shot. It uses less hot water which creates a sweeter flavour compared to the bitter taste of a traditional shot of espresso or a doppio.

Flat White. This drink is basically a cappuccino without the foam or chocolate sprinkle. It’s an espresso drink with steamed milk.

Affogato. Served with a scoop of ice cream and a shot of espresso, or two.

Café au Lait. Café au lait is perfect for the coffee minimalist who wants a bit more flavour. Just add a splash of warm milk to your coffee and you’re all set! Irish. Irish coffee consists of black coffee, whiskey and sugar, topped with whipped cream.

LIFE

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2022-09-30T07:00:00.0000000Z

2022-09-30T07:00:00.0000000Z

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