31/08/2026
Roasting coffee is a process that involves transforming green coffee beans into the aromatic and flavorful brown beans we all know and love. The process of roasting coffee takes place in a roaster, which uses high heat to dry and develop the beans.
There are several different stages of roasting, each with its distinct characteristics. The first stage is called the drying phase, where moisture content is reduced. This removal of moisture allows the beans to progress onto the next stage of roasting.
As the beans continue to absorb heat, they transition through to yellow and then cinnamon which is visually seen; these stages are known as the Maillard reactions - a chemical process between amino acids and sugars.
The roast then moves towards first crack, a point where any moisture still inside of the bean reaches high enough pressure to escape and cause the beans to crack audibly. This is the beginning of the development phase where the desired roast level and flavour profile can be achieved.
Roasting coffee is both an art and a science. Factors such as temperature, humidity, and airflow all play a crucial role in the roasting process and must be carefully controlled to achieve the best possible results.
