5 Reasons Why I Fell in Love with Coffee Roasting—And You Can Too
Hi there, and welcome to the blog section on CoffeeIs.me. I’m so glad you’re here because this is where I get to share my coffee journey—the wins, the lessons, and yes, a few hilarious missteps. Roasting coffee isn’t just a job for me; it’s become a part of who I am. It all started back in 2001 with an Alpenrost home roaster. Picture this: me, standing over a machine that looked like it came straight out of a sci-fi movie, tossing in green coffee beans that smelled like freshly cut grass. What came next? Smoke—lots of it—and a smell that was… let’s say unique. I wasn’t sure if I was making coffee or preparing to call the fire department. But that’s where it all began—a chaotic, curious start that turned into a lifelong passion. And maybe, just maybe, you’ll find that spark too.
1. Superpowers
Anytime I look at raw green coffee beans, I’m reminded of pebbles. They don’t smell like much, and you definitely shouldn’t try tasting one unless you’re okay with cracking a tooth. But then comes the magic: add heat—the right way, or even the wrong way sometimes—and those pebbles transform into the world’s most beloved beverage. That’s magic to me. Roasting coffee makes you feel like a wizard, creating something extraordinary out of nothing. Every roast is a chance to unleash your inner superhero and craft something truly special.
2. Flavor Adventure
Here’s a fun fact: coffee likes to keep you on your toes. As a coffee trainer, I’ve taught countless theories about roasting, but the truth is, coffee doesn’t always play by the rules. It’s mischievous like that. I’ve had moments where the beans decided to surprise me—sometimes for the better, sometimes not so much. But that’s the beauty of it! Roasting coffee is like being an artist with a blank canvas, except your canvas is full of flavor possibilities. Whether you’re chasing the bright, floral notes of an Ethiopian coffee or diving into the chocolatey depths of a Central American roast, every batch is a new adventure. And honestly, who doesn’t love a little surprise now and then?
3. A Little Ego, a Lot of Heart
Roasting coffee isn’t just a hobby or a job; it’s a way to reconnect with yourself and create something you can share. Plus, let’s be honest—there’s nothing like the ego boost of serving someone a cup of coffee and saying, “I roasted this.” Watching their face light up as they take a sip? That’s the kind of moment that makes you feel like a rockstar, even if your “roastery” is just your kitchen counter.
But it’s more than just ego—it’s about connection. Sharing your roast isn’t just handing someone a cup; it’s sharing the story, the effort, and a piece of yourself. It’s the ultimate “look what I made” moment, but instead of macaroni art, you’re presenting something that wakes people up, fuels their day, and maybe even brings them a little joy. Who wouldn’t want to feel like a magician with beans?
4. Science even for non-scientists
You don’t need a degree in chemistry to fall in love with coffee roasting. I certainly didn’t have one when I started… and I don’t have one now. But the moment you see the Maillard reaction in action or taste the caramelization of sugars in a perfectly roasted bean, you’ll feel like Einstein (with better coffee). Coffee teaches you that science isn’t just in textbooks; it’s in the smells, sounds, and sights of the roast. And let’s be real, casually dropping terms like “first crack” and “endothermic reaction” at parties makes you sound pretty impressive.
If you’ve ever wanted to feel like a mad scientist, coffee roasting is your calling. It’s a mix of chemistry, physics, and a splash of artistry. You’re constantly tweaking variables, watching curves, and whispering to the beans, “Just a little longer…” It’s the perfect balance of precision and creativity. I like to think of it as playing with fire (literally) while painting a masterpiece. And when you nail it? Oh, it’s pure magic—like solving a puzzle that you didn’t even know had a solution.
5. Solitude and Reflection
Life gets noisy, doesn’t it? Roasting coffee has always been my way to hit pause. It’s like therapy, but with beans. For over 20 years, coffee roasting was my pressure valve. These days, cycling has taken its place, but the rhythm of roasting—weighing beans, listening for cracks, and focusing on every detail—was my escape. The beauty of roasting is that it pulls you into the moment. Whatever problem you’re wrestling with fades as you immerse yourself in the process. And the best part? The results make your friends and family happy too. Talk about a win-win for mental health.
Roasting coffee has become much more than a profession for me; it’s a passion that blends creativity, science, and mindfulness. Whether you’re exploring new flavor profiles, honing techniques, or just curious about the process, I hope this inspires you to give it a try. Have you ever thought about roasting your own coffee? I’d love to hear your story. Let’s keep the conversation brewing!
