You’ve corrected your roasting errors, but now your coffee tastes like a cup from a diner—burnt and lacking complexity. Even though you’ve tried different beans, Nicaragua and India, they all taste the same, with varying aromas being the only difference. Let’s dive into this conundrum and explore potential solutions together.
You may wonder if your first crack occurring at 410/420 degrees is causing the issue, since other roasters mention their first crack happening closer to 450. However, it’s essential to remember that roasting profiles can vary significantly based on factors such as bean variety, machine, and personal preference.
Let’s examine your roast profile in more detail: – Starting at fan 7 power 1 with a gradual increase of heat – Achieving golden yellow beans by the 2:30 mark – Consistent 1C reading starting at 5:15, reaching 420 degrees
One possible reason for your coffee’s diner-like taste could be an insufficient development time after first crack. First crack signifies the beginning of the roast, but the real flavor development happens during second crack and post-crack phases. If you’re rushing through these stages or not giving them enough attention, it might result in a burnt, one-dimensional taste.
For example, Nicaraguan beans are known for their chocolatey and nutty notes, while Indian beans offer spicy and floral undertones.
Another factor to consider is your bean selection. Different varieties have unique flavors that may not be apparent until later stages of roasting. For example, Nicaraguan beans are known for their chocolatey and nutty notes, while Indian beans offer spicy and floral undertones. If you’re not allowing enough time for these flavors to develop, they might get lost in the roast.
To improve your coffee’s taste profile: 1. Extend your development time after first crack—this is crucial for unlocking the beans’ full flavor potential. 2. Experiment with different roasting profiles tailored to each bean variety you work with. 3. Pay attention to aromas during roasting and use them as a guide, as they can provide valuable insights into your coffee’s development.
Have you experienced similar issues while roasting on an SR800? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below! Let’s continue the conversation and help each other perfect our craft.
Questions & Answers
Why does coffee taste like diner coffee?
Diner coffee may have a distinctive flavor due to prolonged brewing time, use of lower quality beans, or added ingredients.
How can I make my coffee taste less like diner coffee?
Use freshly ground, high-quality beans and adjust brewing time to prevent over-extraction for a smoother, less bitter cup of coffee.
Information sourced from industry reports and news outlets.
