Coffee Reinvented: 5 Reasons Why Fermented Beans Might Be Your New Obsession

I don’t know about you, but I totally look forward to my morning coffee. Now don’t get me wrong — I still down some water first thing after getting up. Can’t beat H2O for hydration, after all!

But soon as that’s taken care of, there’s nothing stopping me from brewing up a hot cup of joe. I’d wager that if you’re also a coffee lover, you can relate to those cravings for a cup or two at dawn. There’s just nothing quite like it!

Now, there’s a type of coffee with a new twist — it’s fermented coffee. Have you tried it?

Why fermented? Most people sip this beverage because they believe it’s a healthier alternative. Fermented coffee is a unique type of coffee that is fermented prior to the bean drying and roasting process. ☕️🌅

Fermentation Works Its Magic

As the freshly picked coffee cherries ferment, natural enzymes go to work breaking down proteins and sugars in the fruit pulp.

This transformation alters the chemical composition and flavor profile, coaxing out subtle flavors and aromas distinctive to those beans.

It’s a dance of delicacy, the fruit and its inherent enzymes collaborating to craft something unique.

The resulting cup of fermented coffee is complex, less acidic, and often sweeter than traditionally processed coffee.

Fermentation reduces the amount of citric and malic acids which contribute to coffee’s bright, tart flavor profile. This results in a mellower, less biting or sour acidity in the final cup of fermented coffee.

People describe its unique flavor as funky, fruity, and tea-like with raspberry flavor tones.

Here’s the strange part. Scientists don’t know exactly what gives this brew its distinct taste, but they have identified three that contribute to its unique flavor: 2-methylpropanal, 3-methylbutanal, and ethyl 3-methylbutanoate. 🍫🍒🍵

Is Fermented Coffee Healthier?

Fermented coffee can be gentler on your stomach. Unlike regular coffee, which can really aggravate conditions like acid reflux or IBS, fermented coffee often doesn’t provoke such digestive distress.

The fermentation process seems to mellow out the acids and compounds that can irritate the gut.

So, if ordinary coffee gives you the jitters afterwards or makes your stomach feel unsettled, fermented coffee may let you enjoy your morning cup without the usual tummy turbulence. It’s a perk for those looking for a coffee that agrees with them.

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It reduces the work your digestive tract has to do too. Fermentation breaks down complex compounds into simpler molecules, making it easier to digest.

Easier digestibility is good news for those with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and acid reflux, who may find fermented coffee’s smoother taste and lower acidity friendlier to their tummies.

Safety concerns take a backseat too. Fermentation removes harmful bacteria, making the final brew potentially safer to consume. And beyond safety, a symphony of new flavors awaits.

Expect fruitier, sweeter notes and a richer depth compared to your regular Joe. 🦠🔬🧫

Fermented Coffee Is Better for Your Smile Too

Fermented coffee might be kinder on your teeth too, thanks to lower levels of tannins, the culprits behind that unsightly coffee stain.

And for those sensitive to caffeine’s jitters, some fermented brews offer a gentler buzz due to slight reductions in caffeine content.

A note of caution. The health claims surrounding fermented coffee remain largely unproven, so we need more research to solidify its health halo. And like any good thing, moderation is key. 😇✨

The Choice Is Yours: Why Not Experiment?

Should you switch your current brew for fermented coffee? As with most things, there’s no black-and-white answer. Trying fermented coffee comes down to your personal curiosity and preferences.

If you’re intrigued to sample a novel type of coffee that could offer some digestive gentleness and unique flavor notes, and if you’re game for something off the mainstream coffee beaten path, then why not give it a shot?

But consult your doctor if you have any underlying health concerns, and don’t ditch your healthy habits in favor of an unchecked coffee spree.

The Taste Test: Tasty or Not?

So, I put fermented coffee to the taste test. First, a deep whiff! As I breathed in its fragrance, a fruity, funky aroma met my nostrils — far different from my regular morning coffee. I picked up aromas of blueberry, lemon, and cocoa with intriguing musky undertones. 🫐🍋🍫

Now for the taste experience. Taking the first sip, pleasantly tart yet faintly effervescent flavors hit my palate, reminiscent of a cherry beer. As I held it in my mouth, balsamic tastes came through and the flavor or black tea and stone fruits.

The mouth feel is thicker and rounder than typical coffee, coating the tongue. This exotic brew awakens and captivates my senses — the interplay of fruit acidity and sweet funk with each sip lures me in for more.

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While not an everyday coffee, I’m intrigued by the flavor journey it offered. It’s an almost juice-like coffee that fascinates and delights the tastebuds.

I’m sure wine lovers will appreciate it the most due its fruity notes. I’m not a huge wine lover myself. 🍷🥂🍇

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I don’t think I’ll replace my blonde roast coffee in the morning with fermented coffee (I’m a creature of habit), but I might drink it on occasion.

As for the health perks? Fermented coffee might not be a magic bullet, but it’s an intriguing addition to the coffee universe.

If you get a chance, take a sip, and savor the potential of this fascinatingly funky brew. Who knows, it might just become your new cup of fermented joy!

Have you tried fermented coffee? Your thoughts? ☕️🔄

References:

American Chemical Society. “Fermented Coffee’s Fruity Aromas Demystified — American Chemical Society,” 2023. https://www.acs.org/pressroom/newsreleases/2023/march/fermented-coffees-fruity-aromas-demystified.html.

Published previously on Medium.com