Roasting Your Own Coffee

    I recently learned a lot about roasting coffee.  I am sure there is much more I can learn.  However, I learned enough for now that I realized the taste, quality and nutrition in coffee beans is a no contest to anything bought at a store or corporation.  I could go on and on about the huge levels of antioxidants or the fact that it tastes so fresh and good that I don't need sugar or creamer, or I can just urge you to buy it, and/or try roasting it yourself.  Here is the first company I bought green coffee beans from:  Coffee Bean Corral. I started with 4 sample bags, which cost me between $20-$25 at about $4.50 (ish) a bag.  You have to remember with quality nutrition, you will pay a little more initially, but the disease and dr's it keeps you from in the long run is totally worth it.  The basic idea of roasting coffee is similar to roasting almonds.  Here are some basic instructions on what to do once you get your coffee beans, however, please visit this webpage for more in depth information, CBC:

• Set oven to 400 degrees and plan on roasting for about 15-20 minutes.  There are variations of this but I believe slow cooking is better quality and taste. 
• Start off with a cup or so of green coffee beans and put them in a metal pan big enough they can rest in one layer on the bottom of the pan.  Something like a cake pan will do.  For toxin-free, do not use non-stick or teflon pans.  Find stainless steel pans.
• Stir beans every 2 minutes for up to 20 minutes depending on desired color.
• Watch for desired color.  Lighter beans will have more antioxidants and caffeine, whereas darker roasts will have less caffeine and less antioxidants.
• Cool beans off right away but do not put in fridge or freezer.  I used two metal bowls, dumping them back and forth, blowing off the chaff. (Outside).

To keep your beans the healthiest, try to avoid utensils, pans, etc., that have plastic, aluminum, non-stick coatings, teflon or other man-made materials that can be toxic when heated.  Stainless steel, wood, and pyrex glass are some toxic free alternatives.

Obviously, there are better ways of roasting coffee that involve better roasters and methods, however if you just want better tasting, more nutritious coffee, this is a great way to start out.  Please share these ideas with others so we start building healthier communities with healthier minds.

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