What Is Coffee? Definition, History, Types, and Benefits

What Is Coffee

Ahhh, coffee. The magic drink that turns even the groggiest mornings into good ones, and is the unofficial sponsor of weekdays (especially when you have 8 am meetings). But have you ever questioned where your magical brew comes from? If you’re here, chances are you’re probably  wondering just that. 

So what is coffee? It’s a brewed beverage made from roasted coffee beans, specifically the seeds of the Coffea plant. This plant, native to tropical regions, is cultivated for its beans, which are processed and brewed into one of the world's most popular beverages. Coffee is known for its stimulating effect due to caffeine, a natural psychoactive substance. Hence, why it wakes you up. The process of making coffee involves a lot of very important steps: harvesting ripe coffee cherries, processing to extract the beans, roasting to develop flavor, grinding to the appropriate size, and finally, brewing to extract the flavors into a steamy, delightful cup. The resulting beverage is appreciated for its rich aroma and distinct taste profile. Mmmm… we’re thirsty just thinking about it.  The smell can vary greatly depending on the bean type, roasting level, and brewing method. Now, let’s dig into this global cultural phenomenon’s history and significant economic importance.

Coffee: origin and history

The history of coffee is as rich and complex as the beverage itself. It’s believed that coffee was discovered in the ancient coffee forests of Ethiopia, where a goat herder named Kaldi noticed that his goats became extra energetic after eating berries from a certain tree. A pretty funny sight. Intrigued, Kaldi tried the berries himself and experienced a similar burst of energy. The news of these berries spread quickly, and they eventually reached the Arabian Peninsula. By the 15th century, coffee was being cultivated in Yemen and had become part of Middle Eastern culture in a big way. Coffee houses, known as qahveh khaneh, began to pop up in cities across the Near East. These places become the ultimate centers for social gatherings, conversation, music, and intellectual exchanges. But coffee didn’t stop there—it continued on to Europe in the 17th century, where it quickly gained popularity (naturally) and became a staple in many households. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, coffee was a global commodity, with different regions developing their own unique coffee cultures.

Types of Coffee Beans

So what is coffee made of? Beans, yes—but there are tons of varieties of beans. Here are a few major places coffee beans are sourced, and what flavors you can expect from those beans.

Robusta coffee beans

Robusta coffee beans are famous for their strong, bold flavor and higher caffeine content compared to other varieties. They’re grown primarily in Africa and Southeast Asia and are used in espresso blends and instant coffee. Robusta beans have a more bitter and less acidic taste, with earthy and woody notes.

Arabica coffee beans

Arabica coffee beans are loved for their smooth, complex flavor and aromatic qualities. Grown at higher elevations in regions like Latin America, Africa, and Asia, Arabica beans offer a wide range of flavor profiles, from sweet and fruity to nutty and chocolatey. They are less bitter and contain less caffeine than Robusta beans.

Liberica coffee beans

Liberica coffee beans are unique thanks to their distinct, smoky flavor and irregular, larger shape. Predominantly grown in West Africa and Southeast Asia, they have a strong, bold taste with floral and fruity undertones. Liberica beans are less common in the global market but are appreciated for their distinctiveness.

Excelsa Coffee beans

Excelsa coffee beans, a variety of Liberica, are primarily grown in Southeast Asia. They contribute to a coffee blend's complexity with their tart, fruity, and slightly acidic flavor. Excelsa beans provide a unique depth to the overall taste profile, often used to add brightness and balance to darker roasts.

Coffee Roasts

Chances are, if you’re a fan of coffee, you probably have a favorite roast. Can you find your favorite? If you don’t have a favorite, well, you might just discover it here.

Light roast

Light roasts are known for their lighter body and higher acidity. They preserve most of the coffee bean's original flavors, often characterized by fruity and floral notes. The beans are roasted to an internal temperature of about 356-401°F (180-205°C).

Medium roast

Medium roasts strike a balance between flavor, aroma, and acidity. They have a more pronounced sweetness and a slightly darker color. The beans are roasted to an internal temperature of about 410-428°F (210-220°C).

Dark roast

Dark roasts have a bold, full-bodied flavor with lower acidity. The beans are roasted to an internal temperature of about 437-446°F (225-230°C), resulting in a darker color and oilier surface.

Extra dark roast

Extra dark roasts, also known as French or Italian roasts, have a robust, smoky flavor with hints of bitterness. The beans are roasted to an internal temperature above 446°F (230°C), producing a very dark and shiny appearance.

Coffee Processing Methods

Washed (wet) process

The washed process involves removing the coffee cherry's fruit before drying the beans. This method typically produces a clean, bright flavor profile with pronounced acidity. The washed process lets the inherent characteristics of the bean, such as origin and varietal, to shine through more clearly. It’s a labor-intensive method (AKA a labor of love) but the result is high-quality coffee with a consistent taste.

Natural (dry) process

In the natural process, the whole coffee cherry is dried before the beans are extracted. This method often gives it a fruity and complex flavor, as the beans absorb some of the fruit's sugars during drying. Natural processed coffees tend to have a heavier body and a more pronounced sweetness compared to washed coffees. This method is commonly used in regions with dry climates, where the conditions are perfect for sun-drying the cherries.

Honey process

The honey process is a hybrid method where some of the fruit mucilage layer remains on the beans during drying. This process gives the coffee a sweet, syrupy flavor with a balanced acidity and body. Honey-processed coffees often have a unique and complex taste profile, combining the best attributes of both washed and natural processes. The level of mucilage left on the beans can vary, resulting in different degrees of honey processing, such as yellow, red, and black honey, each offering distinct flavor nuances. Sounds like a pretty sweet way to make coffee, if you ask us.

Coffee Growing Regions

The great thing about coffee is that it’s able to be grown across the world—which means more variety for you.

Africa

African coffee beans are iconic for their bright acidity and complex flavor profiles. Ethiopia and Kenya have some of the most popular beans that have fruity and floral notes. Ethiopian coffees, in particular, are known for their wine-like qualities and rich, berry-like flavors. Pretty fancy, huh?  Kenyan beans have a full-bodied taste and bright, citrusy acidity. The different climates and altitudes across Africa contribute to the unique flavors found in their coffee beans.

Central America

Next up, Central American coffee beans! They’re known for their balanced flavor, medium body, and clean taste. Countries like Guatemala, Costa Rica, and Honduras are famous for their high-quality beans. Guatemalan coffees often have a rich, chocolatey flavor with a hint of spice, while Costa Rican beans are known for their bright acidity and smooth, clean finish. (If your mouth is watering, you’re not the only one.) The volcanic soil and great growing conditions in this region help produce beans with distinct characteristics that everyone wants.

South America

South American coffee beans, particularly from Brazil and Colombia, are some of the most popular coffee beans worldwide. Brazilian beans are known for their mild, nutty flavor and low acidity, making them a staple in many coffee blends. Colombian coffee is often said to have a balanced flavor with medium acidity and a smooth, well-rounded body. Thanks to lots of climate variety in South America, they also have various flavors available to suit everyone’s preferences.

Asia

Last, but certainly not least, Asia! Asian coffee beans, especially from countries like Indonesia, Vietnam, and India, tend to have a rich, earthy flavor with a full body and low acidity. Indonesian coffees, such as those from Sumatra and Java, are known for their deep, complex flavors with notes of spice and chocolate. Vietnamese coffee often has a strong, bold taste, commonly used in traditional Vietnamese iced coffee. Indian coffees can vary a bit but are generally noted for their smooth, full-bodied character with hints of spice and cocoa.

Coffee Varieties and Flavors

Regular coffee

Regular coffee has a wide range of brewing methods, including drip, pour-over, and French press. It’s usually made by brewing ground coffee beans with hot water and can be enjoyed black (if you’re so bold) or with added milk, sugar, or cream. The flavor of regular coffee can vary a lot based on the type of beans used, the roast level, and the brewing method. Common flavor notes include chocolate, nuts, fruit, and spices, making each cup a totally unique experience.

Espresso drinks

Espresso drinks are made by forcing hot water through finely-ground coffee under high pressure, resulting in a concentrated shot of coffee with a rich flavor and creamy texture. Popular espresso-based drinks include lattes, cappuccinos, and macchiatos. Lattes are made with a shot of espresso and steamed milk, topped with a small amount of foam. Cappuccinos are similar but have a higher proportion of foam to milk. Macchiatos are espresso shots "stained" with a small amount of milk or foam. Each drink offers a different balance of coffee and milk—giving you a whole lot of options.

Specialty coffee shop drinks

There’s nothing more fun than trying special drinks at local coffee shops. Specialty coffee shop drinks include a wide range of beverages, from flavored lattes and frappes to cold brews and nitro coffee. These drinks often feature unique flavor combinations and artisanal preparation methods.

How Much Caffeine is in Coffee?

The amount of caffeine in coffee can vary greatly depending on several factors, including the type of coffee bean, the brewing method, and the serving size. Here’s a breakdown of caffeine content in different types of coffee:

Coffee Beans

• Arabica: Contains about 1.2% caffeine by weight.
• Robusta: Contains about 2.2% caffeine by weight, almost double that of Arabica.
• Liberica: Typically contains about 1.2-1.5% caffeine by weight, similar to Arabica but can sometimes be higher.
• Excelsa: A variety of Liberica, contains around 1.0-1.5% caffeine by weight.

Brewing Methods

• Drip Coffee: A standard 8 oz cup contains about 95 mg of caffeine.
• Espresso: A single shot (1 oz) contains approximately 63 mg of caffeine. Since espresso shots are typically smaller in volume, they are more concentrated.
• French Press: An 8 oz cup contains roughly 80-100 mg of caffeine.
• Cold Brew: Depending on the concentration, an 8 oz serving can contain anywhere from 100 to 200 mg of caffeine due to the extended steeping time.

Serving Size

• Standard Cup: Typically 8 oz, containing about 95 mg of caffeine.
• Large Coffee (e.g., 16 oz): Can contain between 150-300 mg of caffeine depending on the type and brewing method.

Specialty Drinks

• Latte (8 oz): Contains the caffeine of one shot of espresso, approximately 63 mg.
• Cappuccino (8 oz): Similar to a latte, with around 63 mg of caffeine.
• Macchiato: Also based on a shot of espresso, containing about 63 mg of caffeine.

Decaffeinated Coffee

• Decaf Coffee: Not completely caffeine-free, with an 8 oz cup containing about 2-5 mg of caffeine.

Factors Influencing Caffeine Content

• Bean Type: Robusta beans have almost double the caffeine content of Arabica beans. Liberica and Excelsa beans have caffeine content similar to or slightly higher than Arabica.
• Roast Level: Lighter roasts retain slightly more caffeine than darker roasts, though the difference is minor.
• Brewing Time and Temperature: Longer brewing times and higher temperatures can increase caffeine extraction.

Daily Caffeine Intake Recommendations

• Moderate Intake: Most health experts suggest that moderate coffee consumption, defined as 3-4 cups per day (up to 400 mg of caffeine), is safe for most adults.
• Individual Sensitivity: Caffeine sensitivity varies widely among individuals, so it’s important to listen to your body and adjust your intake accordingly.

Brewing Methods

Pour-over

Pour-over brewing involves manually pouring hot water over coffee grounds in a filter. This method gives you precise control over the brewing process, resulting in a clean and nuanced cup of coffee. The technique results in even saturation and consistent water flow, which extracts a balanced flavor profile from the coffee grounds. Your ultra coffee enthusiasts appreciate pour-over for its ability to highlight the distinct characteristics of different coffee beans and origins. For those who enjoy their pour-over coffee on the go, the Owala SmoothSip Coffee Tumbler, available in 20 oz and 10 oz sizes, keeps your brew at the perfect temperature and is designed for easy sipping. Plus, it’s pretty.

Drip coffee

Drip coffee machines automate the process of dripping hot water over coffee grounds for a consistent and easy-to-brew coffee. Water is heated and then poured over the grounds in a filter, allowing gravity to draw the brewed coffee into a pot. This method is popular for its convenience, making it perfect for home and office settings (because who doesn’t love an easy method to make anything?). Drip coffee usually has a balanced and smooth flavor that makes it easy to drink every day—and maybe even down multiple times.

French press

The French press uses a plunger to press hot water through coffee grounds. Coffee is steeped in hot water for several minutes before the plunger separates the grounds from the liquid. This method produces a full-bodied and robust cup of coffee, since the metal filter allows more oils and fine particles to remain in the brew. The result is a rich, heavy mouthfeel with a pronounced coffee flavor, making it a favorite for those who enjoy something a little bit stronger. If you need to kickstart your morning in a big way, this is the one you want.

Espresso

Espresso is made by forcing hot water through finely-ground coffee at high pressure. This method produces a concentrated shot of coffee with a rich flavor and creamy texture. Espresso serves as the base for many popular coffee drinks like lattes, cappuccinos, and macchiatos. The intense brewing process extracts a dense, flavorful coffee, characterized by its bold taste and the layer of crema on top. The 10oz Owala SmoothSip coffee tumbler should be your go-to for enjoying espresso drinks, keeping them at the perfect temperature and helping you avoid any spills. Sipping from it is also a dream—just try it and see.

Cold brew

Cold brew involves steeping coffee grounds in cold water for an extended period, typically 12-24 hours. This method produces a smooth, less acidic coffee that is served cold. The long steeping time extracts flavors slowly, resulting in a mellow and slightly sweet profile. Cold brew is often enjoyed over ice and can be mixed with milk or flavored syrups for a refreshing beverage, particularly popular in warm weather. If you haven’t caught on by now… if you need a tumbler to keep your coffee chilly, the Owala SmoothSip coffee tumbler will keep it the perfect temperature for hours (really).

Tasting Coffee

Flavors

Coffee flavors can range from fruity and floral to nutty and chocolatey, depending on the bean origin and roast level. Light roasts often highlight bright, citrusy notes, while medium roasts balance sweetness with richness. Then dark roasts emphasize deeper, roasted flavors. The completely diverse flavor profiles in coffee result from the beans' inherent characteristics and the roasting process, offering a wide array of tasting experiences.

Acidity

Acidity in coffee is the bright, tangy sensation on the palate, contributing to a lively and refreshing quality. It varies based on the coffee bean and brewing method. Higher acidity is often found in beans from Africa and Central America that give you a crisp, vibrant taste. Light roasts typically have more pronounced acidity that adds to the overall complexity of the coffee.

Body

The body of coffee describes its mouthfeel, ranging from light and thin to full and creamy. Light-bodied coffees feel more like tea, with a clean finish, while medium-bodied coffees offer a balanced, satisfying texture. Full-bodied coffees, often found in dark roasts and French press brews, provide a rich, heavy mouthfeel. The body adds to the coffee's overall richness and experience.

Aroma

Coffee's aroma involves the various scents released by the beans, influenced by factors like bean variety and roast level. Freshly ground coffee beans release a complex bouquet of fragrances, from floral and fruity to nutty and earthy. The aroma plays a crucial role in the overall sensory experience of coffee, enhancing the perception of its flavors and adding depth to the tasting process.

Health Benefits of Coffee

Coffee has several health benefits, so if you’re a coffee fan already… go you! Benefits include improved mental alertness, reduced risk of certain diseases, and a rich source of antioxidants. Regular coffee drinking has been linked to a lower risk of type 2 diabetes, Parkinson's disease, and certain types of cancer. The antioxidants in coffee help combat inflammation and protect against oxidative stress, contributing to overall health and longevity. 

Studies have also shown that moderate coffee intake can enhance cognitive function, improve mood, and increase physical performance. However, it’s essential to consume coffee in moderation so you can avoid some of the not-so-fun effects like insomnia, increased heart rate, and digestive issues. Balancing coffee drinking with a healthy lifestyle can maximize its benefits while minimizing the potentially bad effects, making it a valuable addition to a well-rounded diet. So if you haven’t started drinking coffee yet, consider this your green light to get started. If you’re already a coffee aficionado, congrats on being ahead of the health curve. If you don’t have a reusable coffee cup (or need something better), the Owala SmoothSip coffee tumbler makes it easy to enjoy your coffee in moderation, whether you're at home, at work, or on the go, helping you stay alert—and refreshed—while also staying healthy. High five!