To the delight of coffee drinkers, researchers at Harvard recently published a study noting the health benefits of coffee drinking. Consumption has been shown to lower the likelihood of multiple conditions, such as Parkinson’s and type 2 diabetes. Black coffee is also an ideal way to consume caffeine, as a cup only contains a couple calories. The problem with coffee is all the extras that go along with it. If you don’t find black coffee enjoyable, there are a few options worth trying before adding cream and sugar.

Understanding acidity

Acidity in coffee can commonly be mistaken for bitterness. However, several factors impact this flavor. A shorter brew time with finer-ground coffee can result in the pleasant acidity found in espresso. However, these factors lend themselves to a shortened time span of consumption. Espresso should be consumed immediately, as it quickly turns bitter the longer it sits. Bitterness can also be found in old or incorrectly-brewed coffee. If you don’t enjoy acidity at all, there are a few ways to pursue a smoother cup. A coarser grind and, under the right conditions, longer brew can result in a smoother and less acidic finish. If you prefer a milder coffee, you can try drinks made with toddy (an overnight cold brew) or a nitro brew (cold brew built into a beer tap).

How brewing changes flavor

The size of the coffee ground, water temperature, and speed of brewing all contribute to how the brew tastes. Espresso packs a punch, partly because of the swiftness of the brew. A French press uses a coarser grind and a metal filter that allows more oils to release, creating more acidity. A toddy cold brew uses the same coarse grounds but filters overnight and effectively eliminates acidity.

Freshness

How you store your beans contributes significantly to the quality of your coffee. Store-bought coffee can cycle through warehouses and store shelves for up to a year after it is roasted. Your freshest bet is to find a local roaster who works in small batches to meet immediate demand. The next step is storing your beans. Ideally, you should buy fresh coffee every week or two and grind it at home. Ground coffee immediately starts to lose its flavor and digresses as it is exposed to air and moisture. A common myth is that you should store your coffee in the freezer to maintain freshness, but the problem with this is coffee will absorb the flavors around it. Thus, your next cup of coffee could contain hints of frozen fish and peas. Instead, you should store your coffee in an airtight glass container, out of direct sunlight and away from heat producers like the oven and dishwasher.

Origin impacts flavor

Another way to adjust the flavor profile of your coffee is to purchase beans from a specific region.

For the Traditional: North America

Kona: Smooth & Balanced

Coffee grown at a lower altitude tends to be less acidic and easier to consume first thing in the morning. Simpler roasts, such as Kona, are often used as the base for flavored coffees. Because they have few distinguishable characteristics, they are easy to transform into varied flavors. Mild coffees like Kona can also be roasted longer (a process described as a French Roast) and used to make espresso.

For the Adventurous: South America

Panamanian: Acidic & Floral

Beans that are grown in high-altitude mountain areas are full of flavor and acidity. While these stronger profiles can be hard on an empty stomach, their flavors resemble an expensive wine and are worth exploring.

For the Connoisseur: Indian Ocean

Sumatran: Smooth & Chocolatey

Coffees produced near India and Malaysia often have a strong earthy flavor. Sumatran is from Indonesia and has a complex cocoa-like taste. Beans grown in this area are full-bodied and have a mild acidic profile.

As coffee lovers, we hope this information helps you prepare the perfect cup of coffee so your guests will always ask for a second cup!

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