Identification

• Green coffee beans appear light brown or green in color, and do not have the characteristic coffee taste that develops after roasting.

Types

• Green coffee beans mainly come from high grade Arabica beans grown in various countries around the world. The growing location influences the flavor, so high-altitude coffee beans, like Jamaican Blue Mountain, cost more.

Storage

• Store green coffee beans away from moisture in a breathable paper or fabric bag for up to six months. Buy beans from a reputable source to avoid buying old or stale coffee beans.

Using

• Green coffee is less expensive than ground or roast coffee, but requires roasting at home. Use a small batch home roaster, or roast beans in a pan or hot air popper for an inexpensive alternative. Roasted beans stay fresh for one to three days in an airtight container.

Fun Fact

• Coffee is not a bean, but the dried seed from the center of coffee cherries.