Coffee is the third most consumed beverage in the world. Isn’t it amazing? Out of all the different Types of Coffee, Arabica coffee is widely popular. So, If you are a die-hard fan of coffee, you must be aware of this delicious beverage. So, let’s dive deep, know about arabica coffee, and understand why everyone is obsessed with it?
Mystery Revealed – Arabica Coffee
Arabica coffee mainly comes from a plant species, Coffee arabica. Did you know that around 60 % of the world’s coffee production is of Arabica species? Its origins can be traced to Ethiopia and were first cultivated in Yemen. Its cultivation dates back to the 12th century.
How & Where Is Arabica Coffee Grown?
This delicious coffee bean takes about 7 years to fully mature. The ideal temperature for the plantation ranges from 5°C and 24°C. It is widely grown in tropical and subtropical regions. It is now grown in India, Brazil, Colombia, and Guatemala.
Brazil is the world’s largest producer of Arabic coffee.
Why Is It So Good?
It is considered better than its other counterparts due to its regal flavor, delicious sweetness, and refined acidity. Also, arabica coffee beans are self-pollinating. It means the excellent quality is consistent throughout the plant generations.
Furthermore, Adding more to the delight, the coffee beans are primarily hand-picked!
Science Behind Arabica’s Great Taste
Arabica coffee beans contain about 60% more lipid and more natural sugar than robusta. Did you know that Lipids and sugar play a quintessential part in the flavor and aroma of coffee? This Ultimately gives Arabica coffee a superior taste and less bitterness.
Types Of Arabica Variants
Bourbon – These beans are notorious for their buttery chocolaty flavor with fruity overtones. It is best cultivated at 1,100 and 2,000 meters. This variant of Arabica is the most commercially viable.
Typica – The plants of this variant are very tall but, unfortunately, very susceptible to pests and diseases. Unfortunately, its susceptibility to diseases brings about 20 – 30 % less yield than its bourbon counterpart. It has a mix of lemon and floral taste with a deliciously sweet aftertaste.
Caturra – This variant was discovered in brazil. It is a genetically-altered version of the bourbon variety. Taste-wise it has a crisp, sweet taste with some cherry undertones. This excellent coffee plant is also grown in Colombia and South America.
Mundo Novo – This variant is a unique cross between bourbon and typica coffee plants. It was first introduced in the 1940s and is known for its better disease resistance and adaptability to the harsh environment. It presents the notes of caramel, cinnamon, and natural dark chocolate when tasted.
Catuai – It is a cross between Mundo Novo and Caturra. It comes in two different types – Red and yellow. It requires a high about of nutrition to grow. Unfortunately, it is susceptible to coffee berry and coffee rust disease. Flavor-wise it has a smooth flavor with chocolate and caramel undertones.
Nutrients Content Of Arabica Coffee
- Carbohydrates
- Sodium
- Vitamin E
- Potassium
- Magnesium
What’s The Difference Between Arabica And Robusta?
While these two coffee beans produce the same product, there are stark differences between them. Let’s learn more about the difference between Arabica and Robusta.
Caffeine Content: Robusta contains about 2.7% caffeine, while on the other hand, Arabica only has about 1.5%.
Sugar Content: Arabica contains almost twice the amount of natural sugar as robusta, which accounts for its sweeter, delectable taste.
Taste Profile: Robusta has a bit of a rubbery or earthy taste. Which unfortunately is not widely preferred. On the other hand, Arabica has an extensive flavor profile that ranges from mildly sweet to fruity.
Disease Resistance: Robusta is more disease resistant than its arabica counterpart. Therefore, it is much easier to cultivate and produces a higher yield.
Availability: While both Arabica and robusta are available in the market, you can easily buy coffee online at your convenience and at affordable prices.
Conclusion
Arabica coffee is one of the most sought-after coffee in the world. It is renowned for its delicious chocolaty taste. Furthermore, many other disease-resistant varieties include Bourbon, Catuai, Mundo Novo, Caturra, and Typica. So, if you’re a coffee-lover, you should try it!
