Coffee concentrate: Is it really a coffee?
In a world where you can see anywhere at a click, it's easy to meet your needs. You can order something and have it arrive tomorrow. Some industries, especially at-home coffee, are pushing convenience with coffee concentrate. With so many coffee concentrates, choosing a good one for your morning routine can be hard. To avoid wasting money on bad coffee, read this guide. It reveals the coffee industry's secrets. It is the ultimate guide to coffee concentrate.
Read on and learn what to look out for in the coffee concentrate world!
A Little Coffee Background
Coffee concentrate seems like a new and fresh idea in America. Yet, historians can date coffee concentrate back to the 17th century. The Dutch would make cold-brew coffee. They took it on long voyages to get their caffeine fix. That concentrated coffee finally arrived in Japan.
The Japanese loved cold-steeped tea and believed they could brew coffee the same way. They developed a way to make cold brew coffee called the Kyoto method. This method takes over 24 hours to brew, resulting in a very strong cold brew. The typical Kyoto method, however, is not a coffee concentrate. It's strong coffee.
For many years in early America, only soldiers drank cold coffee. It was easier to keep than hot coffee. It was also simpler to store and brew at that time. Cold brew is easier to store once brewed. Our busy society is thankful for its convenience.
Cold Brew: Concentrate
We know how long coffee concentrate has been around. So, let's dive into a big question about it. What is the difference between regular cold brew coffee and coffee concentrate? The answer is simple and complicated all in one.
There are two main differences:
- Ratio
- Brew time
Cold Brew Ratio
A 1:4 ratio makes cold brew. The smaller ratio for cold brew uses more coffee and less water. So, it makes a more potent brew.
Coffee Concentrate Ratio
Concentrated coffee uses a 1:1 ratio, so you have the same amount of coffee grounds as you have water. After steeping the grounds in the water, the concentrate will be syrupy. Before drinking, the coffee concentrate must be diluted with more water. You can always add more concentrate to your cup to suit your tastes, but a little goes a long way.
Coffee Concentrate and Cold Brew Steep Time
The typical brew time for cold brew is 16 to 20 hours. Steeping for longer than that can result in a bitter-tasting brew.
But the coffee concentrate is 1:1, so the longer it steeps, the more potent the brew is and the better the concentrate is. Coffee concentrate can steep for up to 24 hours and does not lack flavor or caffeine strength.
Other Determining Factors
Cold brew and coffee concentrate differ in their coffee-to-water ratio and steep time. Other differences include the type of coffee and the quality of water used.
Let's break down the best coffee roasts for coffee concentrate. We'll look at where they come from and their flavor notes.
Coffee Terms to Know
The Origin of Beans and Their Flavor Notes
Coffee farming, growing, and harvesting is a source of great fascination! Many factors play a big role in the health and growth of the beans. The region where the coffee is grown can lead to unique flavors in your cup. Each area brings its own special touch to the coffee we enjoy!
We will discuss the major coffee-growing regions and see what flavors you can taste from each.
Central/South America
Central and South America are home to many great coffee countries. They include Colombia, Brazil, Guatemala, Peru, and Mexico. These countries have similar climates, elevations, and soils. This helps them produce delicious coffee with similar flavors. This region is known for its rich coffees. They often have delightful chocolate and nutty notes.
It’s interesting to note that this area is the highest coffee-producing region in the world. The tropical climate, with its sun and rain, makes coffee cheaper here. Many medium to dark roasts come from this region. They offer rich, flavorful coffees that are smooth and sweet. Enjoy exploring the unique tastes each country has to offer!
Africa and Asia
Let's look closely at Africa and Asia. They are two fascinating regions that fuel our love for coffee. Uganda, Ethiopia, Vietnam, Indonesia, and India are standout countries in coffee production. Coffee from these areas can be pricey. But, their unique climates make coffee-growing tough. These beans have fruity flavors, like berries, melons, and a hint of wine. Many coffee lovers enjoy these beans in lighter roasts, making for a refreshing cup.
Fair-Trade Coffee
Fair-trade coffee helps farmers earn a fair income. It supports their families and their farms. Next time you shop for coffee, look for the fair-trade label! This way, your morning cup does more than just wake you up. Coffee travels far and touches many lives before it reaches you. So, it's important to support the hardworking people who bring us this beloved drink!
Arabica vs. Robusta
Coffee comes from a plant, and just like any other plant, each kind of plant has variations. Let’s see what some of those are to ensure you know what is in your cup.
Arabica
Arabica coffee is a gift from the Coffea arabica plant. It has been cherished since about 1000 B.C. It makes up about 70% of the world's coffee. Many people love its sweet, chocolatey flavor. This is especially true for fans of Central and South American coffee. It takes about seven years for the Arabica plant to mature. Then, it produces delicious coffee beans.
Robusta
Robusta coffee is more bitter and acidic. It tastes low-quality. It is cheaper because it is not as widely accepted as good coffee. Compared to Arabica, Robusta is not as flavorful, despite being a hardier plant.
Choosing the Concentrate for You
Great job learning about the coffee regions, plant types, and their flavors! Now, let’s explore how to choose the perfect coffee concentrate for you. We’ll take a look at what to look for on labels so you can easily spot the high-quality options.
Check the Label
Before you pick a coffee concentrate to add to your daily routine, take a moment to read the label. It will tell you the concentrate's origin, any extra flavors, and if it uses Arabica or Robusta beans. If you know Arabica beans taste better than Robusta, you'll find a better coffee!
Learn About the Company
As we discussed, the coffee industry is experiencing rapid growth. But, many farmers who grow the beans struggle to make a living. Before you choose a coffee concentrate, learn about the companies. Look for one that values fair-trade practices.
Choosing fair-trade coffee may seem small. But, it can greatly help coffee farmers! Explore what the company believes in and how they source their products. This way, you can feel good about your choice and its impact.
Get Your Money’s Worth
Coffee concentrate is a wonderful way to get more bang for your buck. A little can go a long way.
Some big coffee companies exploit people's desire for convenience. Their high production hurts quality. When reading your label, understand where it comes from so you know what kind of coffee you are drinking.
Also, you will need to understand how much you are getting per ounce! The average price for a cup of coffee in the United States is $3.93. Coffee can be an expensive habit, and the little things like daily coffee shop stops add up quickly. Coffee concentrates can save you a lot of money. But, you need to know how much you're getting and how much it can save you each day!
Coffee Concentrates: Enjoy Your Brew with Ease
Coffee concentrates offer a simple way to enjoy your favorite drink. They are easy to use. They can save you money over time, especially if you choose a company with subscriptions.
It’s important to know what’s in your cup and how your coffee choices impact many lives. Each cup you enjoy has a story, passing through many hands. This makes it clear that while coffee is a daily treat for us, it also supports the livelihoods of others.
Choosing a coffee concentrate can be overwhelming due to the many options. This variety can be both exciting and confusing. Take some time to research your options and find a brand that resonates with you. Don't hesitate to do some calculations to see how much you can save each day. Savor your coffee, and think about sharing it with friends or family!
