Dark Roast: The secret of dark roasting

Intense, with a bitter-sweet note, and extremely digestible – dark roast coffee is the favorite among Italians. Coffee lovers elsewhere also praise the aroma and digestibility of beans roasted this way. But what exactly is the secret of dark roast? Mamis Caffè explains.

Dark Roast requires sensitivity from the coffee roaster

Outstanding coffee is characterized by one thing above all: its incomparable aroma. But that's no coincidence. In addition to the quality of the coffee bean, the roasting method is crucial. This is a science in itself and the hallmark of every passionate coffee roaster. To achieve a unique flavor and aroma, roasting is all about the perfect interplay of temperature and time.

A few seconds can determine the aroma and character of the beans in the roaster. For the dark roast, known as dark roast, the coffee beans are heated for a particularly long time at a relatively high temperature. This requires particular sensitivity, as the beans should develop a slightly smoky aroma, but of course, they must not burn.

What happens when coffee beans are roasted?

● The water contained in the coffee bean is also heated.

● It changes its state from liquid to gaseous.

● This causes the bean to enlarge.

● At some point the walls of the coffee bean burst with a crack – similar to popcorn.

• This is the moment of the "first crack." Only then is the coffee ready to drink. If the coffee roaster stops at this point, it is called a light roast.

● For a medium or dark roast, the coffee roaster continues the roasting process.

● Dark roasts usually remain in the coffee roaster until the “second crack”.

 

This is how dark roast coffee develops its typical character

During roasting, acids are broken down, meaning the longer the bean is heated, the less acid it contains at the end. Dark roasts are therefore particularly recommended for coffee lovers with sensitive stomachs. In dark roasting, bitter substances replace the acids, which are responsible for the slightly bitter taste of dark roasts.

In addition, the sugar in the coffee bean begins to caramelize during the roasting process. This gives dark roast coffee a sweet note that—depending on the bean—is reminiscent of dark chocolate, hazelnut, or caramel.

Aside from the taste: Have you ever noticed that dark roast beans are not only particularly dark, but also very shiny? This is because the coffee bean releases oils through long, intensive roasting. Dark roasts also contain less caffeine than medium or light roasts and can produce a positive effect on health have.

Coffee roasting: From cinnamon roast to Italian roast

Dark roasts are particularly popular in Southern Europe. Very dark roasts are therefore also called "Italian roasts." The classification of roast levels is common in the coffee industry, but it is handled differently. In German-speaking countries, the following gradations are commonly used:

● Light roast (cinnamon roast): high acidity, fruity, mild coffee taste

● Medium roast (American roast): Balanced taste

● Strong roast (Vienna roast): strong roasted aroma

● Dark roast (French roast): intense coffee flavor

• Very dark roast (Italian roast): strong body, slightly sweet, slightly bitter, low in acid.

Typical dark roast is an espresso of Italian roast. © Mamis Caffè

Grind size for dark roast and more: Connoisseur tips for dark roast

To enjoy your Dark Roast coffee to the fullest, make sure you pay attention to the correct grind for the dark roast. Rule of thumb: The darker the bean, the coarser you can set the grind. If you grind the dark roast coffee beans too finely, too many bitter substances will dissolve. The result: a slightly burnt taste. Of course, the method you use to prepare your coffee is also crucial. Whether it's a portafilter, Mocha or French Press can make a big difference here.

Once you've found the perfect grind, you can create a variety of coffee specialties from dark roasts. A typical example is, of course, an Italian-roasted espresso. Enjoy it on its own or as the basis for a delicious Flat White , Cappuccino or latte macchiato . Dark roasts are also perfect for a strong filter coffee. Just experiment and see which version you like best!

Dark roast specialties at Mamis Caffè

Dark roast is typically Italian – and therefore also the specialty of the coffee roasters at Mamis Caffè. Fancy a taste? Then browse our Shop and find your favorite variety!