When it comes to professional roasting that you get from large coffee companies or smaller micro-roasters, you don’t typically see the DIY methods being used, such as a popcorn popper, a skillet, or an oven. While the DIY methods are functional and can turn out some tasty coffee, they aren’t consistent between batches. That’s why there’s machines, big and small, that are built specifically for roasting coffee – and they get it right every time, bringing you the consistently great taste you get from your favorite coffee roaster.
Take a look at these three kinds you’ll typically find in the back of any coffee roastery:
Air Roasters
Air roasters use hot air to roast coffee beans. The hot air that’s pumped out both roasts the beans and helps keep them steadily moving during the roasting process – ensuring an even roast and preventing burning of the beans. These roasters are cheaper than a big drum roast (which we’ll show below), so while they are often used professionally they can also be bought and used at home.
Smaller, lighter production Air Roaster
Larger scale production Air Roaster
Drum Roasters
Drum roasters are the most popular way for commercial roasters to roast their batches. As the drum spins, hot gasses are passed through or onto the drum and heat the coffee beans. The drum continuously spins so the beans get an even roast. These roasters can be purchase in a small version, starting around $300, but their larger commercial counterparts can go for anywhere between 2 and 4 thousand dollars.
Smaller Drum Roaster
Large, professional grade Drum Roaster
If you can’t afford an air or drum roaster at the time, or are just beginning to dabble in roasting, don’t pass up a trusty DIY method, though. Roasting your own beans right in your kitchen, or backyard as the smell can be quite strong, can lead to some pretty great coffee. We suggest watching a tutorial first for the best results.
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