Last Updated on June 6, 2024 by Daniele Lima
Classic doubts about the so-called “black gold”
For many of us, coffee is more than just a cozy morning drink, it’s a ritual, a passion, and for some, even a basic necessity to start the day off right. In addition to the attractive aroma and comforting taste, the world is surrounded by curiosity and mystery, which some call “black gold”.
From its legendary origins to its complex effects on the body and mind, coffee is a source of endless fascination and debate. In this article, we will discuss some of the most classic doubts about this drink that is loved and consumed all over the world. Get ready to discover several interesting facts about “black gold”, including its variations. It will make you want to read this article while sipping a nice cup of coffee!
Table of Contents
How are coffee beans made
Coffee beans go through a complex process before reaching the cup. Here is an overview of the process:
Harvest: The “black gold” beans are harvested when they are ripe. Depending on the area and cultivation method, it can be done manually or mechanically.
Processing: After harvesting, “black gold” beans are processed to remove the pulp and surrounding skin. There are two main processing methods: dry and wet. In wet processing, the grains are fermented and washed to remove the pulp before being dried in the sun or in mechanical dryers. In dry processing, the beans are dried in the sun, often wrapped in pulp, which gives them a juicier, more complex flavor.
Processing: After processing, the grains are processed to remove pulp and skin residues. This is usually done with processing machines that separate grains of different sizes and densities using sieves and air currents.
Roasting: This is an important step that turns green coffee beans into roasted beans, ready for grinding and brewing. During roasting, the beans are heated to high temperatures, causing chemical reactions that produce the characteristic aromas and flavors of coffee. Time and temperature of toast can vary, which affects the final flavor profile of the “black gold”.
Milling: Roasted beans must be ground before making coffee. The ground level can be adjusted according to the desired brewing method, such as espresso, French press, or filter. The correct grind is important to obtain the perfect flavors in your “black gold”.
Should i freeze coffee beans
Freezing beans can be a useful way to preserve their freshness and flavor for longer. Here is a basic guide on how to do this.
Choose an appropriate container: Choose airtight, moisture-proof containers, such as vacuum bags or plastic containers with airtight seals. Before adding the coffee, make sure the container is clean and dry.
Divide into small portions: Divide the “black gold” into smaller portions before freezing to make it easier to use later and reduce exposure to air. This prevents large quantities from being defrosted and frozen at the same time.
Cool the coffee: It is recommended to let the coffee cool completely after roasting before freezing it. Placing still-hot “black gold” in the freezer can cause condensation and reduce quality.
Airtight seal: Close the container tightly to prevent air from entering, which can affect the flavor of the “black gold” and cause it to deteriorate more quickly.
Freeze: Place the capsules in the freezer. Freezer temperature must be kept below 0°C to ensure proper storage.
Defrosting: When you’re ready to use your frozen coffee, simply remove the required amount from the freezer and let it thaw in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid multiple defrosting and refreezing of “black gold” as this may reduce the quality of the coffee.
Timely use: Although frozen it can last for several months, it is best to use it within a reasonable amount of time to ensure the best flavor possible.
How is instant coffee made
Instant coffee, is made using a multi-step freezing or spray-drying process. Here is an overview of a typical process for making it:
Selection and roasting: The process begins with selecting high-quality coffee beans. These beans are then roasted to produce the desired flavors, in the same way as traditional “black gold”.
Grinding roasted grains: The roasted beans are ground into fine particles to increase extraction efficiency in subsequent steps.
The Extraction: The beans are then extracted with hot water, similar to the traditional preparation method. However, the objective in this case is not to make a drink ready to drink but rather to obtain the maximum flavor and aroma from the beans.
Coffee extract concentration: The liquid produced during extraction is concentrated to reduce volume, which increases the efficiency of the drying process.
Freeze drying or spray drying: In this method, the concentrated “black gold” extract is frozen and then placed in a vacuum, allowing the water in the coffee to pass directly from the solid to the gas state without passing through. liquid state (the process is called sublimation). It preserves the aromas and flavors of the coffee in a way that other drying methods cannot.
Spray drying: In this method, concentrated coffee extract is sprayed into a hot chamber where the water quickly evaporates, leaving small granules of soluble “black gold”. This process is faster and more economical than freezing but may result in relatively little loss of aroma and flavor.
How coffee affect the brain
Coffee affects the brain mainly because of caffeine, which is the drink’s natural stimulant. Here are some ways that it can affect the brain:
Central Nervous System Stimulation: Caffeine acts as a stimulant and blocks the effects of the inhibitory neurotransmitter adenosine. This results in increased neural activity and a feeling of mental alertness, vigor, and energy.
Better cognitive performance: Studies have shown that caffeine can improve several cognitive functions, such as memory, attention span, reaction time, and logical reasoning. This occurs because caffeine increases the activity of neurotransmitters related to cognitive function, such as dopamine and norepinephrine.
Reduction of mental fatigue: Caffeine can help reduce feelings of mental fatigue, allowing people to remain alert and focused for longer periods of time.
Best mood: Moderate coffee consumption has been linked to a decreased risk of depression and increased mental well-being. This may be due to caffeine’s ability to increase the production of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin, which are associated with mood and feelings of pleasure.
Increased brain activity: Brain imaging studies have shown that coffee consumption is associated with increased activity in areas of the brain involved in motor control, thinking, attention, and sensory processing.
Tolerance and Dependence: Like other stimulants, regular coffee consumption can lead to tolerance, which means the brain adapts to the effects of caffeine and may require higher doses to achieve the same effect. Additionally, some people may become addicted to caffeine and experience withdrawal symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and irritability if they stop drinking regularly.
Conclusion: The thousand and one faces of coffee
Coffee is a multifaceted and versatile product, which many are true fans and lovers of. With special variations for all tastes and palates, it is still very important for our brain system, if taken in moderation.
Anyway, if there is a product that we could open a box of questions with successful participation, with various levels of curiosities, it is without a doubt our beloved coffee!
Coffee – FAQ:
Are coffee grounds good for plants
Coffee grounds are very beneficial for plants due to their nutritional value and ability to improve soil quality. They are rich in nitrogen, which is an essential element for plant growth, and also contain important minerals such as potassium and phosphorus. Mixing grounds into compost speeds up the decomposition process and makes the food more nutritious.
They also help improve soil structure by promoting better aeration and drainage. Grounds of “black gold” can be used as a natural product when applied directly to the garden, helping to retain moisture and reduce weeds. However, it is important to use them sparingly to prevent further acidification of the soil.
Are coffee filters compostable
Yes, filters are compostable because they are usually made from bleach-free paper that breaks down easily. When added to the compost pile, coffee grounds break down with other organic matter, helping to create a healthy food base. It is best to break or break the filter into small pieces before placing it in your compost pile to ensure the best decomposition. This speeds up the decomposition process. Additionally, combining filters with green materials, such as fruit and vegetable scraps, and brown materials, such as leaves and paper, creates a balance of balance.
What coffee does Starbucks use
Starbucks generally uses 100% Arabica coffee beans, which are known for their smooth, mellow taste and higher quality than Robusta beans. The beans come from coffee-growing regions around the world, including Latin America, Africa, and Asia-Pacific. Starbucks attaches importance to ethics by ensuring that its “black gold” is grown and purchased in a sustainable and fair trade manner.
The company has many blends and single “black gold”, each with a unique flavor profile, from light and floral to bold and rich. Starbucks’ commitment to quality and sustainability is an important part of its brand image.
Can coffee cause acne
Although coffee itself does not directly cause acne, it can cause skin problems in some people. The caffeine causes too much stress on hormones, which causes excess oil on the skin, which can clog pores and cause acne. Additionally, drinking that contains a lot of sugar and dairy may cause acne in some people because these ingredients can cause inflammation and oil production.
Diet is important; Limiting consumption and paying attention to the ingredients added to it can help control the effects on the skin. Drinking plenty of water and eating healthy also contribute to healthy skin.
