How to Roast coffee on an Open Fire

Roasting coffee over an open fire is a traditional method that requires patience and a bit of skill. It’s a rustic and enjoyable way to experience coffee roasting, often yielding unique flavors. Here’s how you can do it:

What You Need:

• Green coffee beans: Purchase from a trusted supplier.
• A fire-safe roasting pan or skillet: Cast iron works best.
• A long wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring.
• A mesh colander or sieve: For cooling the beans.
• An open fire setup: Campfire, fire pit, or similar.
• Protective gloves: To handle hot equipment.
• Good ventilation: Open fire roasting can produce significant smoke.

Steps to Roast Coffee on an Open Fire:

1. Build and Prepare the Fire

• Build a steady fire and let it burn until you have a bed of glowing coals. This ensures consistent heat without high flames.
• Set up a stable surface (grate or rocks) to hold your roasting pan above the coals.

2. Prepare the Coffee Beans

• Measure out a small batch of green coffee beans (around ½ to 1 cup).
• Place them in your pan or skillet in a single layer to allow even roasting.

3. Start Roasting

• Place the pan over the coals, keeping it at a height where the heat is strong but not scorching.
• Continuously stir the beans with a long wooden spoon or spatula to prevent uneven roasting or burning.

4. Monitor the Roast

• Pay attention to the following signs:
  • Color Change: Beans will transition from green to yellow, then light brown, and eventually dark brown.
  • Cracking Sounds:
    • First Crack (~5-7 minutes): A popping sound signals a light roast.
    • Second Crack (~9-12 minutes): A softer crackling sound indicates a darker roast.
  • Aroma Development: The smell will intensify as the beans roast.
• Adjust the pan’s position to control the heat if the beans are roasting too quickly or unevenly.

5. Cool the Beans

• Once the beans reach your desired roast level, immediately remove the pan from the heat.
• Transfer the beans to a colander or sieve and shake them to cool quickly.
• Toss or stir to remove the chaff (the thin, flaky outer layer).

6. Rest the Beans

• Let the roasted beans rest in an open container for 12-24 hours to degas (release carbon dioxide).
• Store them in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.

Tips for Success:

1. Constant Stirring: Open fire heat is uneven, so consistent stirring is crucial.
2. Use the Right Tools: A pan with a long handle and gloves will help keep you safe.
3. Stay Safe: Keep a safe distance from the fire and be cautious of hot equipment.
4. Experiment: Adjust heat and stirring speed to find your perfect roast.

Roast Levels Guide:

• Light Roast: Remove beans shortly after the first crack.
• Medium Roast: Wait until midway between the first and second crack.
• Dark Roast: Remove beans near or after the second crack.

Enjoy the unique, smoky flavors of open-fire roasted coffee! ☕?