Coffee Beverage

Prepared from the roasted beans (seeds) of the coffee plant, coffee is one of the world’s most popular beverages.

Coffee Brewing Methods – The Brewing Formula

Coffee is prepared by one of numerous brewing methods using hot water to extract the flavor components from the roasted ground coffee beans, which are the seeds of the coffee plant found at the center of the coffee cherry (fruit).

The ratio of water to ground coffee used to create the optimal coffee beverage strength from a particular type of coffee brewing equipment is known as the brewing formula.

The Effects of Coffee Roasting

Some of the chemical components of coffee beans are affected by the roasting process while others are not. Some compounds related to the coffee’s aroma are created during roasting.

When hot water is added to roasted, ground coffee beans, both nonvolatile taste components and volatile aroma components are extracted from the grounds.

Coffee’s Nonvolatile and Volatile Flavor Components

Among the nonvolatile taste components are trigonelline, chlorogenic acid, amino acids, phenolic acids, carbohydrates, minerals and the alkaloid caffeine, which is the principal cause of the physiological effects of coffee on the human body. Caffeine has a mild to strong stimulating effect depending on the amount consumed.

Among the volatile aroma components extracted are organic acids, ketones, esters, amines, and mercaptans.

Coffee’s Effect on the World Economy

The coffee industry generates nearly $80 billion worldwide each year, and coffee beans are the world’s second largest commodity behind petroleum.

Coffee and Espresso Brewing Tips

For tips on brewing the best cup of coffee you ever had see our detailed section on Coffee Brewing. You can also read detailed specialty coffee taste profiles in our Gourmet Coffees sections, then move on to read the easy-to-follow instructions on preparing fabulous Espresso Drink Recipes.

For step-by-step instructions on pulling amazing espresso shots please see Pulling A Perfect Espresso Shot and then hone your master barista skills by reading Barista Guide to Perfect Lattes and Cappuccinos.

For detailed definitions of coffee terminology see the Coffee and Espresso Glossary.  Also check out the World’s Best History of Coffee.