Coffee 101: What is Honey Processed Coffee?

Coffee 101: What is Honey Processed Coffee?

If you’re anything like us, then you love coffee, and when a new trendy item appears on a coffee menu, then you’re anxious to try it and are interested in what all the hype is about. This may be the case currently with Honey Processed Coffee. If you’ve heard about this (or seen it on your local cafe menu recently), then Kai Coffee Hawaii is here to help lift the veil and uncover exactly what IS honey processed coffee?


The Basics: What is Honey Processed Coffee and what is Honey Processing?

“Processing” isn’t new…but it IS essential to understand in order to answer “what is honey processed coffee?” When coffee beans are plucked from their cherry homes, they need a little spa treatment before they become the elixir of life in your cup. This treatment is called coffee processing, and honey processing is one fascinating approach.


Why Honey Processing for Coffee?

Before we go any further, let's clear up a common misconception (one that many are surprised to learn). When we ask the question “what is honey processed coffee?” We're not talking about the sticky, golden honey you drizzle on your pancakes. The "honey" in honey processed coffee is more about that sugary, gooey mucilage that cuddles the coffee beans inside the cherry. It's sweet, but not in the way you'd want to put it on your pancakes.

So…What is Honey Processing?

Now, let's break down the process:

  • Harvesting: Coffee cherries are plucked when they're ripe and ready.
  • Pulping: The outer skin of the cherry gets the boot, leaving the beans with a sticky embrace from the mucilage. 
  • Drying: Unlike their fully washed counterparts, honey processed beans are left to dry with the mucilage still clinging to them. 

How does Honey Processed Coffee Taste?

Ah, the million-dollar question! What does all this mean for your taste buds? Well, you might pick up notes of honey (obviously), but there's also room for fruity, floral, and nutty undertones, especially after roasting. Depending on the mucilage content, roasters can bring out various notes, from zesty and bright to deep and caramelized.


Brewing Honey Processed Coffee

You’ve seen it on the coffee shop menu, but what about brewing your own? Now that you know the answer to “what is honey processed coffee?” you may be wanting to take a shot at brewing your own cup (or pot). Grab your bag of honey processed beans, it's time to brew some magic. Whether you're into pour-over, French press, or your trusty old drip coffee maker, these beans are up for the challenge. Just remember, grinding them fresh is the key to unlocking their full potential.

Honey Processed Coffee in a Nutshell

So, there you have it, the lowdown on honey processed coffee. The next time you're staring at a café menu and spot this sticky delight, don't hesitate. Give it a whirl! It's a sugary journey from cherry to cup that promises a unique flavor adventure with every sip. So, go ahead, savor the flavors, embrace the stickiness, and let honey processed coffee sweeten your coffee-loving soul. Plus, make sure to visit Kai Coffee Hawaii for a truly great cup of coffee!

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