Always wanted to know the difference between Arabica and Robusta coffee beans?
As you may know, coffee is not just coffee. Most people notice a difference between cups of Joe. That’s not surprising because there is a big difference between different coffees. This taste is mainly created by two different coffee beans: Robusta and Arabica. It’s likely that you have come across these names before, but what is the difference between these beans? KoffiePiraat has the answer for you!
The taste
We don’t think this will come as a surprise, but the two types of coffee beans have a different taste. The coffee from Arabica beans is described as sweet, soft with overtones of sugar, fruit and berries. Robusta coffee has a hard, earthy taste with (often) a peanut-like aftertaste. In addition, Arabica coffee beans have a higher acidity, which ensures that the coffee gives a good kick and awakens your taste buds.
Caffeine
Robusta and Arabica beans are also different in terms of caffeine. Robusta coffee beans contain twice as much caffeine as their Arabica counterparts. This is perfect for the early morning, but perhaps not the best option at the end of the day. Pay attention to which coffee beans you take or else you will be up all night!
Price and quality
In general, people see Arabica as higher quality beans but the quality is not that easy to judge. You should look at different elements that influence the quality of the coffee beans. For example, you should look at the freshness and country of origin. Those are more influential to quality than type of plant.
There are many Robusta beans that are more flavourful than Arabica beans, but in general Arabica beans are a crowd favourite. This makes Arabica beans more expensive than Robusta beans. But that is not only because of quality. Robusta plants are easier to grow, less fragile and can handle insects better. They also produce more coffee beans then Arabica plants.
Your everyday life
Even though the Robusta plants produce more coffee beans, Arabica is still the most popular between the two coffee beans. You have probably seen coffee café’s with an 100% Arabica sign. Pure Arabica coffee is seen as the holy grail among many coffee lovers. That’s why Robusta beans are used in other places and products. All instant coffee is made with Robusta beans and in every supermarket, you will find Robusta coffee. But don’t be hesitant to buy Robusta coffee. It may be more rough on the taste but it can be exactly what you need. Italian coffee makers are using a melange of Robusta and Arabica to increase their own espresso’s. This will create a more intense flavour, high caffeine content and good crema layer.
