Key Takeaway
- Master brewing medium roasted coffee beans at home with the right grind size, coffee-to-water ratio, and brew method to achieve a balanced, flavorful cup every time.
What’s your kind of coffee? If you prefer a balanced cup of joe with plenty of flavor, but not too bitter or acidic, medium roast coffee beans may be just what you’re looking for.
Medium roasted coffee beans are one of the more popular types on the market today. They offer an enjoyable balance between light and dark roasts. But what exactly is medium roast coffee, and how can you best enjoy this type of roast? Read on for a guide to understanding and enjoying medium roasted coffee beans.
What Is Medium Roast Coffee?
Roasters roast coffee beans until they reach a level of sweetness between light and dark roasts. This way, the flavors will be brighter than a darker roast yet more intense than lighter roasts. The beans also will be less acidic or bitter.
You’ll know when medium roasts are ready when the beans reach an internal temperature of 420-430 degrees Fahrenheit. This level of heat caramelizes the natural sugars in the beans and develops a richer flavor.
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What Does Medium Roast Taste Like?
A medium roast has a pronounced flavor, but it won’t be too bitter. It has a toasted flavor and is typically well-balanced and smooth.
The taste of medium roast coffee can vary depending on the beans you choose. Some medium roasts will have more acidic notes, while others may offer a sweeter or richer taste.
What’s the Difference Between Light Roast, Medium Roast, and Dark Roast Coffee?
Here’s a quick guide to the three roasts:
| Roast Level | Roasting Process | Color | Flavor Profile | Acidity | Body | Caffeine Content |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Light Roast | Lower temperature, shorter | Light brown | Bright, acidic, original bean notes | High | Light, subtle | High |
| Medium Roast | Medium temperature/ time | Medium brown | Balanced, smooth, toasted | Medium | Medium | Medium |
| Dark Roast | Higher temperature, longer | Dark brown to oily | Deep, robust, smoky | Low | Oily, heavy | Lower |
Roasting Process
Light roast beans are roasted at a lower temperature and for less time, while dark roast beans require a longer roast time at a higher temperature. Medium roasts fall somewhere in the middle.
Color
Light roast beans are light brown, while darker roasts will be closer to dark brown. Medium roasts usually have a medium brown color.
Flavor Profile
Light roasts will have more of the coffee bean’s original flavor and will be brighter and more acidic. Dark roasts have a darker color and a deep, robust flavor that is almost smoky. Medium roasts offer a balance between the two, with bright and smooth flavors.
Acidity
Light roast coffees are the most acidic, while dark roasts are less so. Medium roasts normally have an even level of acidity.
Body
Light roasts will have a light body with subtle flavors, while dark roasts can have an oily body that can mask some flavors. Medium roasts will usually have a medium body with a balanced flavor profile.
Caffeine Content
Light roasts tend to have more caffeine, while dark roasts will have less. Medium roasts will usually be somewhere in the middle.
Why Drink Medium Roast Coffee?
Getting the best of both worlds is easy with medium roast coffee. The flavor of the beans is still pronounced enough to be enjoyable, but it won’t be too acidic or bitter. Plus, the caffeine content is usually just right – not too weak or overpowering.
How to Brew Medium Roast Coffee Beans
1. Pour-Over
- Measure 20 g of medium roasted coffee beans.
- Grind to a medium-coarse consistency.
- Heat water to 195–205 °F.
- Bloom with 40 ml of water for 30 s, then pour in stages to reach 320 ml total.
- Brew time: 3–4 minutes.
2. French Press
- Use 30 g of beans; grind coarse.
- Add 450 ml water at 200 °F.
- Stir gently, steep 4 minutes, then plunge.
3. Drip Machine
- Filter and machine warmed.
- Add 1:17 ratio of coffee to water.
- Let auto-drip finish (~5 minutes).
Other Things You Need To Know About Medium Roast Coffee
When it comes to brewing medium roast coffee beans, the following tips can help you get the most out of your cup:
Choose fresh
Make sure you’re using fresh beans for optimal flavor. Buy small batches and consume within a month for the best taste.
Grind beans to the right setting.
You’ll want to use a coarser grind setting. This will help bring out the flavor of the beans and prevent any unwanted bitterness.
Water to coffee ratio
When brewing, don’t forget to use the correct ratio of coffee and water. Too much or too little can alter the flavor of your cup.
Temperature
Make sure the brewing temperature is between 195-205 degrees Fahrenheit. This will ensure the best flavor extraction.
Contact time
The contact time should be between 4-7 minutes. You’ll need to experiment with different timings until you find the perfect one for your preference.
Mind how you store your coffee
It’s also important to store your coffee correctly in an airtight container. Remember to keep your beans away from heat or light sources to keep the beans fresh and full of flavor.
Expert Insight: “Developing the perfect medium roast requires careful attention to roast curve and bean origin. Aim for a roast profile that highlights sweetness and body without masking origin character.”
— SCA-certified Q-grader
Enjoying Medium Roast Coffee
Medium roast coffee is a great choice if you want to experience freshly roasted beans’ subtle flavors and aromas. It’s an ideal roast for those who don’t like the bitterness of dark roasts or the astringent taste of light roasts.
Medium Roast Coffee Beans Recommendations
Coffee may be a nice treat, but selecting the right beans can be overwhelming. Here are three great medium roast coffee bean recommendations:
Volcanica Coffee Kenya AA
Many coffeenatics know Kenya as one of the finest coffee origins in the world. The Volcanica Coffee Kenya AA is a perfect example of Kenyan beans at their best. Boasting an opulent profile of rich raspberry and cranberry fruit flavors, a vibrant hint of hibiscus, and a lovely wine-like acidity common to many Kenyan coffees grown in high altitudes – this full bodied brew is sure to please.
Purity Coffee Flow
For those who are health-conscious, Purity Coffee Flow is a great choice. It’s crafted with organic, ethically sourced beans and slow-roasted to ensure flavorful and full-bodied coffee. It has a smooth and sweet taste with notes of hazelnut, cocoa, and molasses.
Kicking Horse Coffee Three Sisters
This budget-friendly, organic blend from Kicking Horse Coffee is a great option for any coffee lover. It has a medium body with bright acidity and notes of toasted hazelnuts and sweet chocolate. Plus, it’s Kosher and Rainforest Alliance Certified, so you know you’re doing good with every sip.
Final Thoughts
Medium roast coffee is a great way to experience the flavor of freshly-roasted beans without the bitter or astringent taste. It’s an ideal roast for coffee drinkers who want a balanced cup that’s still bursting with flavor. With the right beans, water temperature, and grind size, you can get the most out of your medium roast coffee. So, why not give it a try? You just might find your new favorite brew.
