Hey Lykkers! Whether we're grabbing a quick takeaway or brewing a fresh pot at home, coffee is a part of many of our daily routines. But have you ever thought about where that bold, comforting flavor really comes from?
It all starts with the beans—and not all beans are the same. So today, let's dig into the world of coffee bean types and figure out which ones suit our taste best!
Arabica: The Smooth and Popular Pick
First up, we've got Arabica, the most common and loved coffee bean in the world. If we enjoy smooth, slightly sweet coffee with gentle flavors like fruit or flowers, Arabica is our go-to. It usually grows at higher altitudes in places like Brazil, Ethiopia, and Colombia. Because it's a bit delicate, Arabica beans need more care to grow and harvest—which makes them a little pricier.
Arabica beans also have less caffeine than other types, so they're perfect for those of us who want the flavor without the strong jolt. If you've ever had a light roast or a specialty pour-over, chances are you've tasted Arabica.
Robusta: The Bold and Strong One
Next, let's talk about Robusta. This bean is all about power—it's stronger, has more caffeine, and gives off a more bitter, earthy flavor. We usually find Robusta in instant coffee and espresso blends because it adds that thick, creamy layer on top (that's called crema!).
Robusta grows at lower altitudes and in harsher climates—places like Vietnam and parts of Africa. It's easier to grow than Arabica and more resistant to pests, which also makes it cheaper. If we enjoy a deep, bold cup that really wakes us up in the morning, Robusta might be our favorite.
Liberica: The Unique and Rare Bean
Ever heard of Liberica? It's not as famous, but it definitely has a loyal fan base. This bean has a big, bold shape and a flavor that's totally different—think smoky, or even a little fruity. It's mostly grown in the Philippines and Malaysia, and it's usually found in specialty coffee shops.
Because Liberica has such a unique taste, it's often blended with other beans or served on its own for those of us who love trying something new. It's not everyone's cup of joe, but for adventurous coffee lovers, it's worth a sip.
Excelsa: The Flavor Booster
Here's another hidden gem: Excelsa. Some folks group it with Liberica, but it really stands out on its own. Excelsa makes up only a tiny part of the world's coffee, and it's known for adding depth and complexity to coffee blends. It has a tart, fruity profile that mixes light and dark notes—kind of like drinking two types of coffee at once.
We often won't see Excelsa sold alone, but if we ever try a complex-tasting blend with both brightness and richness, there's a good chance it includes a bit of Excelsa.
Which One Should We Choose?
Now that we know the main types, the big question is—which one is right for us? Here's a quick guide:
• For soft, sweet flavor: Go for 100% Arabica
• For strong and bold coffee: Try blends with Robusta
• For unique, adventurous tastes: Look for Liberica or Excelsa
• For budget-friendly options: Robusta is often more affordable
Also, keep in mind that roasting level changes the flavor too. A dark roast can make Arabica taste more like Robusta, and a light roast can bring out fruity notes in almost any bean.
Let's Brew Smarter, Lykkers!
Lykkers, coffee isn't just about staying awake—it's a little daily joy that we all enjoy in our own way. Whether we sip it slow or gulp it on the go, the beans we pick totally change the taste. Now that we've broken down the four major types—Arabica, Robusta, Liberica, and Excelsa—we can choose with confidence. Next time we're shopping for beans or ordering a cup, let's take a moment to check the label and see what we're really drinking.
What kind of coffee bean do you usually go for? Or maybe you're curious to try something new after reading this? Let us know your favorite coffee moment or your bean of choice—we'd love to hear it!
Here's to better brews, Lykkers—one cup at a time!
How to Choose Coffee Beans: A Beginners Guide
Video by Dero_De_Barista
