Table of Contents
- Importance of Storing Coffee at its Best State
- The Concept of Freezing Coffee Beans
- The Best Practices of Freezing Coffee
- Advantages of Frozen Coffee Beans
Importance of Storing Coffee at its Best State
Roasted coffee beans keep evolving over time. They release gas and absorb moisture in the air, even though they are stored in the air-blocked bags. When the beans are degassed enough, they reach the best state where the best flavours are presented. The period of time to get to that state depends on the roast level and it continues for few days. However, the flavour of the coffee beans go flatter after the point and will lose flavours over time. Therefore, storing coffee beans at their best state has always been huge challenge among baristas.
The Concept of Freezing Coffee Beans
Freezing coffee is one of the storing methods and it involves exposing the beans to low temperatures to preserve their flavour. By slowing down oxidation and preserving volatile compounds responsible for the coffee’s aroma and taste, freezing can extend the shelf life of the beans. While freezing won’t improve the beans beyond their original state, it can be an effective way to maintain their quality for an extended period.
The Best Practices of Freezing Coffee
When freezing coffee, several important factors should be taken into consideration to ensure that the beans retain their quality.
Do Not Grind but Freeze Whole Beans
Whole beans have a smaller surface area, protecting against oxygen and moisture exposure. This preserves the aromatic compounds and essential oils responsible for flavour. Grinding beans just before brewing maintains grind consistency and optimal flavour extraction.
Divide the Beans into Portions
Split your coffee beans into smaller portions before freezing. This way, you can thaw only the amount you need for a specific time, minimising exposure to temperature fluctuations and potential moisture absorption. Whenever possible, avoid thawing and refreezing coffee beans.
Use Airtight Containers
You can store the coffee beans in airtight containers or resealable freezer bags designed for freezing. Ziplock bags are proven good by many home baristas and double packaging is recommended. Make sure the containers or bags are properly sealed to prevent the coffee from absorbing unwanted odours and moisture inside the freezer.
Advantages of Frozen Coffee Beans
Frozen coffee generally has more advantages over the beans with room temperature. They are more brittle so they generate less fines when grinding and give you more consistency in particle size. Also, because of the fact that colder coffee grounds create less resistance within filter baskets, finer grinding point is required and hence more flavour compounds are ready to get extracted. In addition, it’s noted that coffee beans lose their aromatic flavour due to the heat produced during grinding. Because the low temperature of the frozen coffee offsets this heat, the flavours are protected and retained.
Conclusion
Freezing coffee is the way to extend the life of our coffee without compromising quality. With this comprehensive guide, we can confidently embrace the art of freezing coffee, enrich our coffee experience, and refine our craft as dedicated baristas. Here’s to raising our mugs to exceptional brews, each one a testament to our passion for the world’s most beloved beverage!
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