Coffee: tips for keeping it fresh!
How can I tell if the coffee is fresh when I buy it?
Fresh-roasted, whole coffee beans retain their quality for a maximum of 4 weeks. Coffee beans get tough and rubbery as they get older. Fresh beans are easy to break with your finger nails. The fresh and vibrant aroma of the coffee beans is easily recognisable. Old coffee beans do not have this aroma. Ground coffee loses its flavour and aroma fairly soon and should be consumed within a week.
How should I store coffee?
It is best to store your week’s supply of coffee in its original packaging in an airtight jar in a cool place. Roll down the packaging until all the air has been displaced. Wash the storage jar regularly to get rid of stale odours. Do not allow the coffee to come into contact with other foodstuffs as it absorbs odours immediately.
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What if I want to store my coffee for longer or if I buy in bulk?
If you want to store your coffee for longer than a week, then it is best to place it in the freezer. Pack it in small quantities so that you only have to open what you need and the rest can stay put. Treat your coffee in the same way as other fresh food. Do not re-freeze it after it has been defrosted.
How can I keep the coffee fresh for a longer period?
Store your freshly ground coffee or your fresh coffee beans in an airtight jar in the fridge or a cool, dark place. But remember: a cool place will help the coffee stay fresh for a while but not forever. Coffee will stay fresh for longer if it is stored in the freezer. But for optimal freshness it’s always better to stock up regularly at the shop. Never mix old coffee with fresh coffee as this will have an adverse effect on the taste.
Is it a good idea to grind coffee at home?
It’s a great idea! When you grind coffee you break the natural protective layer around the beans and release those wonderful aromas. But, as coffee also loses its flavour and aroma pretty quickly, it’s advisable to grind the beans in the right quantity just before brewing.
What is the best way to store brewed coffee?
The best way to store freshly brewed filtered coffee is to pour it into a pre-heated, airtight thermos flask. Don’t leave it on a hotplate, where it will only become bitter!
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