Coffee is one of the most popular beverages around the world. Whether it’s early in the morning or amidst a hectic day, a coffee fix keeps most people going throughout the day. Despite the fact that coffee is one of the most consumed beverages in the world, not many people know that the types of coffee go far beyond latte, cappuccino, espresso, and mocha.
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You may only know the different ‘makes’ of coffee, but did you know that the type of coffee beans that are used to make a cup of coffee – be it your regular latte or an espresso shot – can have a major impact on the taste, aroma and overall feel of the drink?
Not all types of coffee are made from the same coffee beans. You’ll be surprised to know there are numerous types of coffee beans used to make coffee.
With coffee beans, Arabica and Robusta are the two of the most common names. Coffee beans are obtained from coffee plants belonging to the family Rubiaceae, which comprise thousands of species, and Arabica and Robusta are two different species with different characteristics altogether.
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Arabica Coffee
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Despite it forming a major portion of total coffee production, Arabica is more expensive than Robusta. It’s because the cultivation requirements of Arabica coffee are more specific and delicate, from the weather to the altitude.
These larger, oval-shaped coffee beans have a characteristic center crease, which makes it easier to distinguish them from other types of coffee beans.
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Robusta Coffee
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It accounts for a major portion of total coffee production around the world, only second after Arabica. It’s less acidic in taste than Arabica and has a characteristic peanut-like aftertaste due to the earthy tones of the coffee blend.
Robusta coffee beans are smaller in size as compared to Arabica beans. They are round, having a light center crease. Robusta coffee beans have a yellowish tint, which is what helps in distinguishing them from other coffee types. Robusta coffee beans are relatively cheaper than Arabica coffee as their cultivation requirements aren’t as strict as Arabica.
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What Kind of Coffee Is Used at Home and Cafes?
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When we talk about instant coffee packed in sachets, often with a 3-in-1 formula that comprises coffee, sugar, and milk, it’s usually Robusta. Robusta coffee makes a good cup of brewed coffee as well, only not as strong as Arabica.
If you ask us which of the two types is better, well, there’s no one answer to this. Arabica and Robusta are two distinct and separate coffee varieties that differ drastically in taste, aroma, and chemical characteristics. If you like your coffee strong, Arabica coffee is a better option for you. However, if you like milder coffee, we suggest you opt for Robusta.
So, what’s your type?
