Popcorn Popper Coffee Roasting

[kenstogie]

Walmart Presto PopLite Hot Air Popcorn Popper (http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=5969519&sourceid=1500000000000003260370&ci_src=14110944&ci_sku=5969519#ShortReviewTitleBar)

I am told that you can roast a mean cup of joe with a popcorn popper.

If anyone knows about such things what are the requirments for a popcorn popper to roast coffee in?

How about the one above?

Any other thought and suggestions are welcomed and appreciated.


Have a great day!!!!

[TheRealBonger]

That one has the hot air coming out of a mesh bottom. Look in the chamber and find one that vents on the sides of the chamber. The mesh could let chaff in and be a fire hazard. I have a popcorn pumper (i think). Sweet Marias list some models that they have found that work. Lots of good info :tu
http://sweetmarias.com/airpop/airpopmethod.php

[Resipsa]

That one has the hot air coming out of a mesh bottom. Look in the chamber and find one that vents on the sides of the chamber. The mesh could let chaff in and be a fire hazard. I have a popcorn pumper (i think). Sweet Marias list some models that they have found that work. Lots of good info :tu
http://sweetmarias.com/airpop/airpopmethod.php

Correct. The mesh ones will burn your house down.

You want this:http://sweetmarias.com/airpop/airpopchamber.jpg

[beamish]

here is the one you want works great...http://cgi.ebay.com/Vintage-West-Bend-Popcorn-Popper-The-Poppery_W0QQitemZ250496215271QQcmdZViewItemQQptZSm all_Kitchen_Appliances_US?hash=item3a52bce8e7&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14

[kenstogie]

Thanks for the info inmates!!! Glad I asked because I thought that they were all the same.

one of the ones sweet maria's recommend my gram had and I remember making popcorn together with it. She loved it and I can get one on ebay. I miss my gram but will be roasting beans in her honor.

[floydpink]

Passing through Target yeaterday, I noticed the Westbend machines that are basically a frying pan with a turning rod to stir up the beans and a very simple dome over it.

Are those ok?

Burning down the house was a major reason I went with a machine specifically designed for the job, but know plenty of roasters do fine without.

[kenstogie]

Passing through Target yeaterday, I noticed the Westbend machines that are basically a frying pan with a turning rod to stir up the beans and a very simple dome over it.

Are those ok?

Burning down the house was a major reason I went with a machine specifically designed for the job, but know plenty of roasters do fine without.

http://sweetmarias.com/airpop/airpopdesign.php

This will give the correct info on Popcorn poppers, I am not sure about the one from target do you have a link, maybe some else here knows?

[floydpink]

No link, but it's weird how they say to NOT use anything where the hot air enters through the bottom and that is precisely how it enters with the Freshroast.....:confused:

[Resipsa]

Passing through Target yeaterday, I noticed the Westbend machines that are basically a frying pan with a turning rod to stir up the beans and a very simple dome over it.

Are those ok?

Burning down the house was a major reason I went with a machine specifically designed for the job, but know plenty of roasters do fine without.

Nope the stircrazys don't get hot enough on their own, but....

They are half of the roasting sensation known as the SCTO, bottom is a stir crazy and the top u get a turbo oven. Very popular and easy to build, many here can tell you how.

[floydpink]

Found a link Vic, and it looks like a cool project if you're somewhat handy.

http://biobug.org/coffee/turbo-crazy/

Not for me, as it seems like once you add it all up, you could just buy a Behmor and I tend to break stuff, but probably an easy job for someone with a little patience.

[Tazziedevil]

I have a black and decker popcorn popper that I use to roast small batches every week or two. Have no idea what the model is but it does indeed have vents that vent to the side of the chamber and no mesh.
Posted via Mobile Device

[boom]

i'd like to try this, keep this going guys...

[kenstogie]

My popcorn popper is on the way. Ill post my results and maybe a howtoo and ppros/cons
I still need too buy some green beans though. Sweet marias here I come

[kenstogie]

I emailed sweetmaria's asking about sampler packs and recommendations for the first attempt. It seemed very pertinant and relevant to this thread so here is their response....


________________________
Hi Ken,

Thanks for the note. We do sell sampler backs at the bottom of the Green Coffee Page here- http://www.sweetmarias.com/prod.greencoffee.mvc.php

Most of the blends we sell listed on the green coffee page under blends are suitable for espresso though you can create your own blends there is more information about that here-
http://www.sweetmarias.com/blending.php

Information about choosing coffee-
http://www.sweetmarias.com/choosingcoffeeFAQ.php

Edward's Popper Roasting Tips
http://www.edwardspiegel.org/easnuke/modules.php?name=Load_Page&loadpage=/easnuke/modules.php?name=Load_Page&loadpage=/coffee/roastingwithpoppers.htm

Hope that can get you started.
Best- Erica
_______________________________

[floydpink]

If you haven't already, you should visit Sweet Marias website.

Someone really took the time to put together a very easy to understand instructional on roasting.

I refer to it all the time now.

[kenstogie]

I received my Popper in the mail and here's the picks. I'll be purchasing the beans soon and I'll be off to coffee nirvana, eventually that
is.

NOTICE THE VENTS ON THE SIDE (NOT THE BOTTOM) and the BOTTOM IS SOLID. I am told this is mucho importanto!!!
This is pic is looking down the throat.
http://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=2&ik=7ac3e99e45&view=att&th=123ee624e1cb263f&attid=0.1&disp=inline&zw
http://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=2&ik=7ac3e99e45&view=att&th=123ee5f116789d6c&attid=0.1&disp=inline&zw

[floydpink]

I received my Popper in the mail and here's the picks. I'll be purchasing the beans soon and I'll be off to coffee nirvana, eventually that
is.

NOTICE THE VENTS ON THE SIDE (NOT THE BOTTOM) and the BOTTOM IS SOLID. I am told this is mucho importanto!!!
This is pic is looking down the throat.
http://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=2&ik=7ac3e99e45&view=att&th=123ee624e1cb263f&attid=0.1&disp=inline&zw
http://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=2&ik=7ac3e99e45&view=att&th=123ee5f116789d6c&attid=0.1&disp=inline&zw

I think it has a sore throat, All I can see is a red x.
How's it working out?
I keep seeing those Westbend Popperies on Ebay for cheap and am tossing around the idea of picking one up for a second roaster and am wondering if you need to do all the roasting outdoors due to the chaff flying?

[germantown rob]

I really don't understand the pop corn popper as a roaster in its stock form.
Roasting beans at a high heat with no temp control is a bit like throwing anything you are cooking in a 500f oven and calling it done when it browns. I really have never taster a thing out of a stock popper that didn't taste thin and with very little flavor development and to say that city to city + coffee tastes that way is just BS. Different beans need different approaches to roast them proper and that takes some control over the roasting process to get heat to the center of the bean not just the outside.

I say roasting over an adjustable gas burner in a pan and stirring with a spoon or whisk can give a novice much more control over a roast and a better understanding of how simple changes can bring out the most from a particular bean. Not to say that this method doesn't have it's drawbacks since it is very easy to burn the outside of the bean especially on the flat spots. Peaberry beans are the best way to learn this method since they have less flat spots because they are more round.

Just my :2.

[kenstogie]

THis might work better.......


http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=3982&stc=1&d=1253883025
http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=3983&stc=1&d=1253883065

As to Rob's comments. I have never roasted coffee in my life but am told that fresh roasted java is like an epiphany of epiphanies while in the most comfortable easy chair in Nirvana. It's a start for me and there may be better/easier methods. It seemed like I have heard a lot of good things about the popcorn popper method so I went with it.

I am interested in trying both methods. There both inexpensive.

[germantown rob]

There is no better feeling then drinking a fresh roast that you made but roasting beans does not guarantee good coffee. A popper may be the easiest to use, plug it in, throw some beans in, roast them. The process to get good to excellent roasts is a wee bit more complicated, with mods a popper will give excellent results.

A pan on the stove is also low budget and easy but there is no noise to cover up the 1st and 2nd crack, smell and color are also much easier to judge then a popper so I think it is easier to learn more about the roast process to develop the skill required to create a great cup of joe.

[kenstogie]

I will definatley try it also. I didn't know it was an option but will definately give it a shot. What kind of beans should I get for the first attempt?

[floydpink]

I'm a babe in the woods when it comes to roasting, but at this point, the Freshroast plus8 was 80 bucks well spent and I have now roasted a dozen times with great success and am drinking a latte from the CCM Costa Rica hardbean as I am reading this thread and am in, uh, nirvana.:banger

Granted, the Freshroast roasts in small batches, but that seems to be a plus for me as I enjoy watching the roast and do it every 2-3 days now.

[trogdor]

I started with the popcorn popper method, but quickly moved on. I use the heat gun/dog bowl method now. Easy, more control over the roast, very little extra equipment needed. Needs to be done outside or on the porch or something, though. I have a nice large metal dog bowl, put the beans in, put it on my gas grill with the gas on low, and then fire up the heat gun. I roast on low for ~3 and 1/2 minutes, then switch to high until done. Stir constantly with a metal spoon (wrap the handle and your hand in a towel to avoid burns). The roast can be slowed down by moving the heat gun a little farther out, and sped back up by bringing it in closer.
One tip: if you roast with the heat gun completely vertical, it will get very hot and eventually poop out. The heat gun needs to be angled so the whole body isn't directly over the bowl. If the handle of the heat gun starts heating up a lot, readjust the position. Also, get the extended warranty on the heat gun if you can. Roasting is hard on them. In my experience they tend to last a bit over a year if you roast several batches a week.

[germantown rob]

I will definatley try it also. I didn't know it was an option but will definately give it a shot. What kind of beans should I get for the first attempt?

It is worth a try since almost everybody has the equipment to pan roast anyway.

As for selecting beans... I think sweet maria's descriptions can help to find a flavor you like to help choose.

http://www.sweetmarias.com/prod.greencoffee.mvc.php

I would suggest for new roasters to look for beans that can handle a variety of roast levels as well. By choosing a bean that can take city+ to full city+ will let you discover the sounds and smell and colors and still have a drinkable cup. To roast a coffee that is limited to a smaller window of roasts before you even know what the level of roasts look, smell, and sound like is more likely to give a bad cup.

As for peaberry beans SM's has 4 of them right now. Peaberry is just a bean that is easier to roast in a pan but is also a tad more expensive so it may be worth picking as I suggest above for a while.

Btw I am not saying pop corn poppers can't do the trick and with simple mods like a couple of 100 foot extension cords you can play with the voltage to the heating element or to add a dimmer switch would improve what it is capable of. Every popper even the same ones will vary so some that love this method and moding will buy 6 poppers to pick the one that best fits their needs.

Roasting your own opens up the entire world of beans you can get and allows full control of the roast level. There exist roasters that will roast this way for you but it costs a pretty penny. Hell I still buy roasted beans once in a while to keep me honest about my own roasting so I don't mind paying $38 plus shipping for 2lbs.

[kenstogie]

When I went shopping at Sweet marias I noticed they rate the roasting range in "city" ranges which may be confusing to some.

city=lighter roast
city+=slightly darker
Full city=dark roast

If I am missing something let me know, like where does french roast and espresso roast fit in to the scheme of things?

[germantown rob]

When I went shopping at Sweet marias I noticed they rate the roasting range in "city" ranges which may be confusing to some.

city=lighter roast
city+=slightly darker
Full city=dark roast

If I am missing something let me know, like where does french roast and espresso roast fit in to the scheme of things?

Roast levels and pics (http://www.sweetmarias.com/roasting-VisualGuideV2.php)

What do you like to drink now? Even if you like Charbucks french roast I won't think any less of you, but as you can see when looking to choose some beans there are many to choose from.

[OLS]

I agree with Rob on this one, if roasting your own coffee succesfully is all down to
hearing certain audible clues, you don't need an air popper fan covering up the clues.
I have never roasted my own coffee, but I DO KNOW that air poppers are not even good
at popping corn. A whole lot of popcorn that salt won't stick to. It might be fun for a few
raosts, but I would think if you have a goal, and a goal by the way that is not necessary
to enjoy the final product, coffee, I would save my money for that goal and wait it out to
get something purpose-built.

[kenstogie]

I must admit. Sometimes I like Charbucks but sometimes I also think it tastes burnt. So far the best coffee i have had has been through a press.

That was a great link Rob!

[germantown rob]

I must admit. Sometimes I like Charbucks but sometimes I also think it tastes burnt. So far the best coffee i have had has been through a press.

That was a great link Rob!

Take a look at some Kenya's, not my favorite but they work well in a french press and are a hard bean that can take a lot of heat, most Kenya beans don't like to get to 2nd crack.

Costa rica is another good choice for FP and usually can handle more levels of roast

Sumatra is a bean that can usually go from city to vienna so may be a good starting point.

[germantown rob]

I'm a babe in the woods when it comes to roasting, but at this point, the Freshroast plus8 was 80 bucks well spent and I have now roasted a dozen times with great success and am drinking a latte from the CCM Costa Rica hardbean as I am reading this thread and am in, uh, nirvana.:banger

Granted, the Freshroast roasts in small batches, but that seems to be a plus for me as I enjoy watching the roast and do it every 2-3 days now.

I was under the impression you went with the i-roast. Keep putting some money aside for a big boy roaster since I get the feeling you will get into this end of the hobby and wear the freshroast out in less then a year.

I will stick to my guns and say there is no better purchased home roaster then the Hottop B. There is the Quest M3 roaster that is stirring up interest so it is also something to keep an eye on. Looking at the price of these roasters scares most people away but after wearing out a Behmor in 6 months of heavy roasting I knew I needed something that could stand the test of time, 2 years into the HT B and a few mods the thing is bullet proof and anything that can go wrong is easily replaced at home.

[floydpink]

Nah, switched to the Freshroast last minute.

Figured it would take longer, but I am already looking at Hottops...

Not scared.

[germantown rob]

Nah, switched to the Freshroast last minute.

Figured it would take longer, but I am already looking at Hottops...

Not scared.



I do believe I warned you about this :D, I guess the up side is you didn't spend the $200 to have upgradtitus so soon after purchase. I am hoping to upgrade my thermo coupler soon to one I can usb to graph out roast profiles, hopefully I will be able to have this done before you upgrade.

[raisin]

I will stick to my guns and say there is no better purchased home roaster then the Hottop B. Looking at the price of these roasters scares most people away but after wearing out a Behmor in 6 months of heavy roasting I knew I needed something that could stand the test of time, 2 years into the HT B and a few mods the thing is bullet proof and anything that can go wrong is easily replaced at home.

Even though my Behmor has almost lasted two years of Hard roasting, I have to agree.
That is where the cheap air-poppers have true value - such a small investment is easily tossed aside when you want/need/evolve to upgrade.

[Resipsa]

I agree with Rob on this one, if roasting your own coffee succesfully is all down to
hearing certain audible clues, you don't need an air popper fan covering up the clues.
I have never roasted my own coffee, but I DO KNOW that air poppers are not even good
at popping corn. A whole lot of popcorn that salt won't stick to. It might be fun for a few
raosts, but I would think if you have a goal, and a goal by the way that is not necessary
to enjoy the final product, coffee, I would save my money for that goal and wait it out to
get something purpose-built.

popcorn poppers do an outstanding job at roasting coffee, so good that some never move on to something else.;)

[kenstogie]

Whether they do or they don't, I have one now so I'm gonna use it and find out! ;)

[germantown rob]

popcorn poppers do an outstanding job at roasting coffee, so good that some never move on to something else.;)

Vic, are you saying an unmodded popcorn popper can roast with an experienced user as well as a Hottop or any machine that gives full control over profile. :r;s

[Resipsa]

Vic, are you saying an unmodded popcorn popper can roast with an experienced user as well as a Hottop or any machine that gives full control over profile. :r;sWhat I'm saying Rob is there is no "better" , simply what the roaster is looking for.

Does my Iroast, or a popcorn popper for that matter, do a better job if I'm looking to bring out certain attributes of a bean, say the brightness of a kenyan, than my Hottop does?

Maybe it does.

My point is you cannot compare air roasting to drum roasting and conclude one is the better than the other, because they are designed to produce different results. It's like saying grilled chicken is "better" than roasted chicken. All depends on the taste you're looking for, and personal preference.

[germantown rob]

What I'm saying Rob is there is no "better" , simply what the roaster is looking for.

Does my Iroast, or a popcorn popper for that matter, do a better job if I'm looking to bring out certain attributes of a bean, say the brightness of a kenyan, than my Hottop does?

Maybe it does.

My point is you cannot compare air roasting to drum roasting and conclude one is the better than the other, because they are designed to produce different results. It's like saying grilled chicken is "better" than roasted chicken. All depends on the taste you're looking for, and personal preference.

Roasted chicken is far better then grilled chicken and smoked chicken kicks both their butts :D.

I will not argue the air vs drum but I will argue profile vs no profile. Drum or air when the ability to break a roast up into 3 segments of profile, drying, pre first crack, and first crack on, control over the outcome of flavor can be changed. I think a modded hot air roaster is in the same game as any roaster you can buy.

I feel like popcorn roasters are a bit like the Silvia, a huge fan base with lots of internet info but far from the ultimate answer. I do think for anyone that wants to get into roasting or to try it on a low budget there are better ways to learn without all the noise and lack of control and even the high fan speed with fast roast times keep a newb from getting the basics down and many give up before they give it a real chance and sell on ebay. I want newbs to have a fighting chance at this hobby not get discouraged by limitations of equipment, I am sure we can agree that this is a wonderful skill to possess and I don't think I will slow down the sale of popcorn poppers by having this opinion. ;)

[Resipsa]

Roasted chicken is far better then grilled chicken and smoked chicken kicks both their butts :D.

I will not argue the air vs drum but I will argue profile vs no profile. Drum or air when the ability to break a roast up into 3 segments of profile, drying, pre first crack, and first crack on, control over the outcome of flavor can be changed. I think a modded hot air roaster is in the same game as any roaster you can buy.

I feel like popcorn roasters are a bit like the Silvia, a huge fan base with lots of internet info but far from the ultimate answer. I do think for anyone that wants to get into roasting or to try it on a low budget there are better ways to learn without all the noise and lack of control and even the high fan speed with fast roast times keep a newb from getting the basics down and many give up before they give it a real chance and sell on ebay. I want newbs to have a fighting chance at this hobby not get discouraged by limitations of equipment, I am sure we can agree that this is a wonderful skill to possess and I don't think I will slow down the sale of popcorn poppers by having this opinion. ;)
I think we basically agree Rob. I just think those who are new need to learn basics prior to worrying about profiles. Hell, I've been doing this for several years, and I get intimidated and confused at times, especially when things don't bring the results I planned for. :r

[floydpink]

Well, whatever happens, it's comforting to know that blowing the best part of a grand on a Hottop roaster isn't necessarily inevitable, however likely it seems.

Looking forward to comparing my progress with Kenstogie's.

I'm tryin to take baby steps over here....

[Swampper]

I use this:

http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww223/swampper/coffee_roaster.jpg

Cost: $ 0.00, friend didn't want it...
Added a smoker thermometer - $ 20.00

Use on stove top. Add about 8 oz of beans at around 400 degrees,
Usually get first crack around 5 minutes, turn off heat, get second crack, and
dump in to screen colander at about 6 or 7 minutes.

[kenstogie]

http://www.amazon.com/Wabash-Valley-Farms-25008-Whirley-Pop/dp/B00004SU35
23.56 quite reasonable.
THere seems to be many options. If you can keep the beans moving and constant steady temp you are in good shape I am guessing.

[germantown rob]

Cost: $ 0.00, friend didn't want it...
Added a smoker thermometer - $ 20.00

Use on stove top. Add about 8 oz of beans at around 400 degrees,
Usually get first crack around 5 minutes, turn off heat, get second crack, and
dump in to screen colander at about 6 or 7 minutes.

http://www.amazon.com/Wabash-Valley-Farms-25008-Whirley-Pop/dp/B00004SU35
23.56 quite reasonable.
THere seems to be many options. If you can keep the beans moving and constant steady temp you are in good shape I am guessing.

These are great and swamper gives a profile as well :tu. Sweet Maria's has these with clear lids for $35 and talks about the SS versions they no longer sell.

Stove top popper (http://www.sweetmarias.com/prod.stovetop-popper.php)

Swamper, I suggest also using a timer and after finding where first crack starts try cutting the heat before it starts. Trying to get 3-5 minutes from start of 1st c to the end of roast (whether this is city of vienna) will give some desirable results.

There are many ways with your setup to profile the roast, if you like I would gladly share my opinions on how to.

[floydpink]

Please do Rob. Anything you can share will benefit us new roasters.

BTW, where the heck has Moo disappeared to? These threads have been very helpful to read, but are missing some sort of comedy that only Moo can provide.

[raisin]

http://www.amazon.com/Wabash-Valley-Farms-25008-Whirley-Pop/dp/B00004SU35
23.56 quite reasonable.
THere seems to be many options. If you can keep the beans moving and constant steady temp you are in good shape I am guessing.

Hmmm, reading all those reviews makes me want to buy it for the popcorn... lol

[Savor the Stick]

I use this:

http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww223/swampper/coffee_roaster.jpg

Cost: $ 0.00, friend didn't want it...
Added a smoker thermometer - $ 20.00

Use on stove top. Add about 8 oz of beans at around 400 degrees,
Usually get first crack around 5 minutes, turn off heat, get second crack, and
dump in to screen colander at about 6 or 7 minutes.

Well if there is going to be a little hijacking of the OP I'll throw in.....I use this one--twice so far. First roast I scorched but drank just for the experience....not too bad. The second I installed a temp probe and started on lower heat at 300 degrees (8 oz of beans). 1st crack was about 5-6 mins...2nd crack about 2 mins later. Roast temp did not get over 350 degrees....very nice roast good color distribution...very tasty brew.
I need to invest in a dedicated timer just for my coffee roasting. I enjoyed the learning experience.:tu

Happy Roasting:)

[Mister Moo]

... where the heck has Moo disappeared to?
D'uh? Have a crowd of bicycle riders over for the weekend. Was drinking the last of the CR Taz while out back roasting 2-lbs of Aricha27 in the BBQ grill and, simultaneously, another pound of Santos in the SCCO. The rare home double-roast!

I love the theater popper roaster; all it lacks is a variable thermostat, chaff extractor, auto-cool cycle, fuses, viewing window and a couple of motors. :) Nice going, Swampps.

[coolfrenz28]

What is this? I have seen this first time.

[Mister Moo]

What is this? I have seen this first time.Here's the next step, seen at www.sweetmarias.com

http://www.sweetmarias.com/homemade-homeroasters/LoneRoaster_04a.JPG

[kenstogie]

My stock of coffee is getting low so I finally ordered up my first batch of green beans from Sweet Maria's. I got the 4 lb sampler pack of mixed stuff. I dunno if it was the best choice but it's done now and I can't wait. My intent is to post my results here.

http://www.sweetmarias.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=2052&Category_Code=
http://www.sweetmarias.com/Merchant2/graphics/00000001/sampler.8pack.jpg

[germantown rob]

My stock of coffee is getting low so I finally ordered up my first batch of green beans from Sweet Maria's. I got the 4 lb sampler pack of mixed stuff. I dunno if it was the best choice but it's done now and I can't wait. My intent is to post my results here.

http://www.sweetmarias.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=2052&Category_Code=
http://www.sweetmarias.com/Merchant2/graphics/00000001/sampler.8pack.jpg

Looking forward to hearing more :tu.

[kenstogie]

Delivered. YEA!!!
Now the question is do I
A-brew my chocolate porter
B-Roast some coffee

Decisions, decisions.

[MarkinAZ]

Now the question is do I
A-brew my chocolate porter
B-Roast some coffee

Decisions, decisions.


:D First B, then A....

[replicant_argent]

Here's the next step, seen at www.sweetmarias.com

http://www.sweetmarias.com/homemade-homeroasters/LoneRoaster_04a.JPG

I like the Rube Goldberg-ness of that.

[kenstogie]

Well it's done. I have roasted my first batch. I opted for the Sumatra Litong Dolok Sangull, (could you make the name of a coffee a little longer?) as it seemed like it had the biggest roast range, city to vienna.

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_sctUupuw_Zk/SueciHc_r_I/AAAAAAAADcE/gWmUnREos6o/s400/IMG_9132.jpg


Anyway I loaded up the little tray, (1/2 cup) turned on the popper, let it warm up 30 secs and dumped them in.

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_sctUupuw_Zk/Sueci0hD_yI/AAAAAAAADdM/3AnFWmvhNgI/s400/IMG_9131.jpg

I was using a guide that I found on coffee geeks (link) (http://coffeegeek.com/guides/popperroasting) or that some gracious BOTL pointed me to.

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_sctUupuw_Zk/SuecaSOmbTI/AAAAAAAADcA/989MX5ScNKg/s400/IMG_9137.jpg

During the process I noticed some popping but nothing distinctive that clearly represented a "stage" nor was there alot of popping at one time. I would describe it as more occasional. There did seem to be some crackling toward the end. Could have been the noise of the machine or I suppose, my lack of hearing, my inexperience or most likely a combination of all of the above.


To get to the below levels the total time of roasting was 20 mins or maybe slightly more which was way more time than the article on coffee geeks said it would be. The Macro shot is the actual finished product and the one below it is the sweet maria's guide (http://www.sweetmarias.com/roasting-VisualGuideV2.php) my guess it that I roasted a Full City to Full City+ but again it's my first time and that's only a guess.
http://lh4.ggpht.com/_sctUupuw_Zk/SueciV6bPtI/AAAAAAAADdI/_eYlET2kJiM/s800/IMG_9143.jpg
http://www.sweetmarias.com/roastprocess-singlebean/roasting-allin1-pre.jpg

Of course I had to grind up some and try it. It was quite good I might add too. I tried it both "plain" and with a little cream and sugar. To my surprise the "plain" was just about as good as the C/S one and I could pick up more flavors with the plain. I understand that I should actually wait for 4-24 hours but wanted to try it.

[kenstogie]

Cooling off on a cookie sheet
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_sctUupuw_Zk/Suec90e3w0I/AAAAAAAADeU/9dlEkjZRja0/s800/IMG_9138.jpg




Heres a before an after.....
http://lh4.ggpht.com/_sctUupuw_Zk/Suec85klj1I/AAAAAAAADeQ/gzc601Siu20/s800/IMG_9156.jpg




and another actual after done photo
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_sctUupuw_Zk/SuecrHyL8yI/AAAAAAAADdY/8PWJp0Xg-Qc/s800/IMG_9140.jpg

[kenstogie]

Tonight was round two and I am adjusting some of the stuff I'd done before.

A-I put a little more in as there was hardly enough for a pot and one of the tutorials I read said the MORE beans makes your roast hotter. (yes I know that sounds counter-intuitive as the writer of the tutorial pointed out) Instead of the 1/2 cup from before I put in probably 2/3 cup or completely filled the popcorn holder on top.

B-I roasted a different blend which was a city+ to full city recommendation on the label
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_sctUupuw_Zk/Sujn78vTsYI/AAAAAAAADgE/dcIBHErzflY/s400/IMG_9185.jpg

This roast clearly had a first crack that sounded like popcorn. I also noticed (barely) a second crack. At that time I stopped the roasting and dumped it on the aluminum tray as per the instructions from the aforementioned tutorial.
Total time was 10-11 mins.


I also noticed some color variations in the beans.
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_sctUupuw_Zk/SujoT2hlHrI/AAAAAAAADgk/wbsKqaw7aTo/s800/IMG_9157.jpg

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_sctUupuw_Zk/SujruLs6jLI/AAAAAAAADhk/HdL08kV7SvU/s800/IMG_9157.jpg

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_sctUupuw_Zk/SujoV-kIM2I/AAAAAAAADhA/0wfB_3ouCjM/s800/IMG_9158.jpg

I don't know if this is normal but if it tastes good who cares. I am also going to wait until tomorrow to brew (press) the coffee.

[Mister Moo]

Nice!

[MarkinAZ]

Tonight was round two and I am adjusting some of the stuff I'd done before.

I don't know if this is normal but if it tastes good who cares. I am also going to wait until tomorrow to brew (press) the coffee.

KS, thanks for the photo's and documentation from what appears to be the beginning of your coffee roasting journey:dance:

[kenstogie]

KS, thanks for the photo's and documentation from what appears to be the beginning of your coffee roasting journey:dance:




NOt a problem it's kinda fun actually and if help someone else all the better.:tu

[floydpink]

great review, thx for taking the time to post.

[kenstogie]

During the "de-gassing" period right after roasting how do you store your beans? Also are my grade determinations (city, city+ etc) at least in the ball park?
Any other tips?
THANKS!!!

[floydpink]

I bought a 5 dollar storage tin from Sweet Marias that has a valve on the bottom.

I am not an expert, nor being critical, but it seems from the picture, some of your beans are Vienna and I even see some charring.

[kenstogie]

I bought a 5 dollar storage tin from Sweet Marias that has a valve on the bottom.

I am not an expert, nor being critical, but it seems from the picture, some of your beans are Vienna and I even see some charring.

Gotcha. I notice that they look differently under different light and 10 mins after you take them out of the "roaster"
I remember reading that they continue to roast some after you take them out.

Is it normal or not an abnormal occurance to have the different tones of roasting from the same roast?

I did notice some of the charring on some of the beans, if you mean that black circlular on the photo below the "and another actual after done photo" pic above.

Thanks for your input Floyd Council. :)

[germantown rob]

Gotcha. I notice that they look differently under different light and 10 mins after you take them out of the "roaster"
I remember reading that they continue to roast some after you take them out.

cooling the beans as quick as possible is a good thing to stop the roasting.

Is it normal or not an abnormal occurance to have the different tones of roasting from the same roast?
Simple answer- Yes
City and City+ will always have variations on the same bean. Different roasters do different things, some will give more uniform coloring. Learning and practicing can lend itself to getting more uniform coloring.

[germantown rob]

During the "de-gassing" period right after roasting how do you store your beans? Also are my grade determinations (city, city+ etc) at least in the ball park?
Any other tips?
THANKS!!!

This has become a major obsession of mine. :tf

Oxygen, moisture, and light are some major enemies to roasted coffee. Since home roasters are consuming their roasts before long how much of a problem is there really going to be in less then 14 days? Most of what has been scientifically researched is for extending the freshness for shelf life on a commercial level and I am trying to piece together how to use this info best as a home roaster. For oxygen not to be a problem it must be reduced to at least 4%.

To be really anal one might...
Allow roast to cool.
Transfer roast to vacuum bag.
Flush with nitrogen (co2 might be fine and can be acquired in small spay bottles at wine stores)
Vaccum the bag (the bag will expand with co2 as the degassing from the beans is strong the first 12hrs or so)
If resting more then 2 days cut bag and repeat.

Is this necessary? :r:r I am trying to find out if I notice a difference in the time it takes me to consume my roasts. I have already done some home experiments with part of a roast resting in an open cup, a sweet maria's tin, and vacuumed sealed. The open cup lost it's aromas the quickest compared to the tin and on day 10 the open cup tasted on it's way to stale, the tin's aroma was ok until shaken then it was good and the vacuum bag when opened was delightful but tasted the same as the tin which tasted like a 10 day old roast. My tastes have changed and grown since I did this last test and espresso seems to have a much tighter window of flavors from the cup then my moka pot or Brikka so I am going to see if my above storing does make a better shot.

Edit: Just get yourself some mason jars or valve bags or valve tins and put your roast in them once cooled. I like the tins because they keep the light out and look good on the counter but a mason jars seals better, bags just end up costing to much money for self storage but make nice gifts.

[kenstogie]

So I did another batch and since I am new to this I am learning a few things that help...

--A strong light or even a flashlight so you can see the beans as they are roasting is pretty dang helpful
--take the beans out a little bit before they are done as they continue to roast after they are removed, even if you put them on a cookie sheet.
--your nose tells you alot about what's going on with them.
--first crack second crack. It doesn't really happen all the time. Sometimes it cracks sometimes it doesn't.
--you can mask the actual flavor of your coffee with cream and sugar, try leaving it out, especially the sugar.

These are just my observations/opinions. YMMV.
:salute: :salute: :salute: :salute:

[floydpink]

I'm able to shut down the roast fairly quickly with a metal collander over an upturned desk fan shaken rapidly after the beans are dumped in.

[germantown rob]

So I did another batch and since I am new to this I am learning a few things that help...

--A strong light or even a flashlight so you can see the beans as they are roasting is pretty dang helpful
:tu, the brighter the better.

--take the beans out a little bit before they are done as they continue to roast after they are removed, even if you put them on a cookie sheet.
Do what Pete said to speed up cooling and think ahead 10-20 seconds.


--your nose tells you alot about what's going on with them.
:tu, eyes can be deceiving with color but pay attention to the smoke changes and smell a lot.
--first crack second crack. It doesn't really happen all the time. Sometimes it cracks sometimes it doesn't.
The cracks are always there, just one of the drawbacks of a popper, the noise.

--you can mask the actual flavor of your coffee with cream and sugar, try leaving it out, especially the sugar.
Trying your beans black before adding anything is the best judge of your roast but drink it any way you like.

[kenstogie]

Totally unrelated but very cool.....
How big is a Coffee bean??
http://learn.genetics.utah.edu/content/begin/cells/scale/ (http://learn.genetics.utah.edu/content/begin/cells/scale/)

[OHRD]

Fellas, what an AWESOME thread! I'm looking at getting into roasting w/ some of my Christmas money this year. Thanks for the insight!

[kenstogie]

Thought I’d report back with some of my experiences with the Popcorn Popper Coffee Roasting method after roasting 15 batches or there abouts

1-For me one fill of the "measuring top dumper thing" is just not enough so I did two. This is a limitation that I find make this method slightly irritating and will eventually make me trade up.

2- Letting your popper run for 30 seconds does help heat up the unit but be prepared to get those beans moving RIGHT AWAY when you dump them in or they will scorch.

3-Sounds counter intuitive but yes more beans in the popper makes (or probably RETAINS) more heat and thus the beans roast quicker but as noted below keep those beans moving.

4-You really have to get those beans moving because if you don’t they’ll scorch and not "tasta so good". What I did was
A-Remove the "dumper measuring thing" out,
B-cover it with a cloth to prevent the scaffe from getting everywhere,
C-take a wood spoon stick it down the throat of the whole thing and stir A LOT.
This gets those beans moving and prevents scorching and creates a more even roast.

5- After the beans have lost some of their weight and expanded they will move more freely. That doesn’t mean to get complacent as you still need to stir.

These have been my experiences with my particular popcorn popper. I have read that they all heat different depending on the…. Element, cord length, power supplied by outlet, variety of beans roasting etc etc. I have found that you can get a great roast from them but does require a bit of skill/practice.