How to process coffee, from the tree to the table.

by jill peterson
(hilo hawaii)

QUESTION:

I have a coffee tree in my backyard here on the big island of Hawaii. My question is, what is the process in drying the bean and then roasting? Do I soak the bean first to remove the outer skin? Please help. I'm so wanting to try making my own Joe.

Aloha and mahalo


ANSWER:

Good question. And I have to say that I'm no expert when it comes to processing coffee beans, although I envy you your coffee tree!

Your best bet is to find a coffee farmer who can give you precise instructions.

But roughly, here's the process.

Wait for the cherries to ripen. Then you have to get the skin and flesh off. Soak them in water and then work the flesh away until you just have the beans remaining.

Then dry the beans in the sun. You still have to remove a final layer of paper-like material from the beans. This is best done dry.

Now you'll have your clean, green beans. The next step is to roast them. There are plenty of roasters you can buy for coffee, although you can get started just with a popcorn maker.

Then grind, brew and enjoy.

But as I said, you're better off speaking with a local expert. And there are plenty of them in Hawaii.

It would be a shame to waste or spoil your beans!