Roasting small batches of coffee can be a rewarding and personalised way to enjoy freshly roasted beans. Here’s a basic guide to help you roast small batches at home using a simple method like a dedicated coffee roaster:
Equipment Needed:
- Coffee Beans: Choose high-quality, green coffee beans.
- Roaster: Consider using a home coffee roaster
- Colander or Cooling Tray: To cool the beans quickly after roasting.
- Measuring Scale: To weigh the green coffee beans accurately.
- Timer: To keep track of the roasting time.
- Ventilation: Ensure good ventilation to handle smoke produced during the roasting process.
Steps:
1. Measure Your Beans:
- Measure the green coffee beans based on the capacity of your roaster. Small batches are typically around 250 grams.
2. Preheat the Roaster:
- Preheat your roaster to the recommended temperature. This varies depending on the roaster you’re using, so refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
3. Add Beans:
- Add the measured green coffee beans to the preheated roaster. Make sure to use the recommended capacity to ensure even roasting.
4. Roasting:
- Monitor the colour and aroma of the beans. The roasting process involves several stages: drying, first crack, and optional second crack.
- Drying Phase: The beans will initially release moisture. This phase takes a few minutes.
- First Crack: This is when the beans start to crack and release oils. The longer you roast beyond the first crack, the darker and oilier the beans become.
- Optional Second Crack: If you prefer a darker roast, continue roasting until the second crack. However, be cautious not to burn the beans.
5. Cooling:
- Transfer the roasted beans to a colander or cooling tray immediately to stop the roasting process.
6. Resting:
- Allow the beans to rest for at least 12-24 hours after roasting. This allows them to degas and develop their full flavour.
7. Storage:
- Store your roasted coffee beans in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Use the beans within 1-2 weeks for the freshest flavour.
Tips:
- Experiment with different bean types and roast levels to find your preferred flavour profile.
- Keep in mind that roasting produces smoke, so ensure good ventilation or roast outdoors if possible.
- Take notes during the process to adjust the roast profile based on your preferences.
Remember that roasting coffee is both a science and an art, and it may take some practice to achieve the perfect roast for your taste.
The 2 main types of coffee beans are Arabica and Robusta.
The Gene Café small batch coffee roaster and green coffee beans along with with a good selection of teas, coffees and beverage equipment are available from Pennine Teas and Coffees.
More details can be found on the above link.
