You might have observed a label of “100% Arabica” on the coffee packaging label, and if you wonder what that actually means, then you are in the right spot.
By the end of this article, you will know everything that you should know about arabica coffee.
So What is Arabica Coffee? Arabica coffee is basically a different type of coffee specially made from the beans of the Coffea arabica plant. Almost 60% of the coffee production in the world is made through this coffee.
Compared to other types of coffees, Arabica consists of extra lipids and sugar that make it more flavorful.
Table of Contents
History of Arabica Coffee
Arabica coffee originated in Southwestern Ethiopia. Oromo tribes first crush the beans, mix them with fat, and consumed them. Then these beans went to lower Arabia, where actually ‘coffee’ was born. Arab scholars from Yemen roasted the beans- brew them for the first time in history and consume that brewed beverage.
This beverage helps them a lot in staying working for a more extended period, as they stay active for extra time. From here, coffee founds its way around the world!
Growing and Harvesting
Arabica takes almost seven years to mature entirely, and it usually grows at hilly lands in higher altitudes. This plant can bear low temperatures but not frost. It performs best at moderate temperatures, usually between 15°C to 24°C; this makes it sensitive to hotter regions.
It can grow up to 9-12 meters in the wild area, while when grown for commercial use, it reaches up to 5 meters. Cultivators frequently trim 2 meters that help them in harvesting. Two to four years after the plantation, the small white flower will be produced.
These flowers have a powerful fragrance and open up on sunny days, resulting in increased berries. Each berry comes with two or one seed which is called a peaberry.
As this plant is grown in the mountains, so using machinery for harvesting isn’t possible. This is the reason all the harvesting of this plant is done manually.
Generally, harvesting is done by either strip pick or the selective pick method. When the berry is deep-red, at that time, it is harvested. All the berries of the Arabica plant do not ripen simultaneously, so handpicking becomes a must in this.
Coffee-Cultivating Countries
Arabica coffee is usually grown in tropical climates, while one of the largest producers in the world is Brazil. Some countries that produce premium quality coffee are Ethiopia, Mexico, Colombia, Brazil, Costa Rice, Rwanda, Guatemala, India, Ecuador, and Burundi.
Taste of Arabica Coffee
High-quality arabica coffee tastes much better than all other coffees available in the market. It has a soft and sweet taste with a taste of nuts, caramel, and chocolates.
You will notice a flavor of berries and fruits in it that makes it extra sweet. It also has a slightly acidic and little bitter taste which is the signature taste of coffee.
Different Arabica coffees may have different tastes. This is because the flavor of each coffee will vary depending on where it was roasted, how they were brewed, their storage methods, and the way they were brewed.
If you want a more sweet flavor, then you should do cold brewing of the coffee.
Different Kinds Of Arabica Coffee Beans
Arabica coffee comes from a large family that consists of many different varieties. Following are some of the major types:
Gourmet Coffee
It is one of the highest-quality varieties of Arabica coffee. This mild variety is one of the best-known coffee beans in the world.
Typica
One of the first coffee varieties that helps in growing all other varieties is the Typica. It has a tall plant that produces less yield, but the taste it offers you is unexceptional.
These beans brewed a clean and sweet cup of coffee that is readily available in the form of a blend in the market.
Bourbon
It was first grown on Bourbon Island, an Indian Ocean island. It is now planted in many countries, and it is well-known worldwide.
Like Typica, it is also a cone-shaped plant, but it differs in its more prominent cherries and broader leaves. Bourbon produces almost 30% more fruit than Typica. Its flavor includes fruit overtones and chocolate flavor.
Health Benefits of Arabica Coffee
Arabica coffee has many health benefits. A few of them are below:
Contains Nutrients
Arabica coffee contains a small number of vitamins and minerals. It contains minor quantities of riboflavin, niacin, magnesium, potassium, manganese, and sodium that are beneficial for your body.
Lower sodium and higher potassium help in balancing hydration levels in the body.
Contains Antioxidants
A lot of antioxidant compounds help in protecting human cells. These compounds also decrease the risk of different types of cancers in the liver, mouth, pharynx, and other diseases.
The phenolic acid present in the coffee protects the body from any harm.
Treats Diabetes
Extracts of Arabica help in lowering the content of glucose which acts as an ailment to treat diabetes. Individuals who intake Arabica have a lower risk of suffering from type 2 diabetes.
Fights With Bacteria
The Arabica coffee fights against the bacteria that is responsible for causing cavities in teeth. Thanks to chlorogenic acid and caffeine in the Arabica that makes it is potent enough to fight.
Zero Calories
The best thing about Arabica coffee is that it contains zero calories in its natural state. For people who want to lose weight, this coffee is an ideal choice.
Keeps You Active
The caffeine in Arabica coffee keeps you alert, happy, and energetic throughout the day. It drives your positive emotions and helps you in staying active for a more extended period.
Final Words
We have covered everything that you should know about this incredible plant. Well, Arabica coffee is not only a great beverage, but it also has many health benefits. It will keep your body active and disease-free.
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