Roasting fire roasted coffee is a rewarding mix of art, skill, and patience. I want to share with you 5 easy steps to roast unbelievable fire roasted coffee over an open fire. It takes practice to develop the eye and ear for the process, but the result—a fresh, aromatic batch of fire roasted coffee—is well worth the effort. In this guide, we’ll teach you how to roast fire roasted coffee over an open fire, whether you’re at home or enjoying the warmth of a campfire.
This process doesn’t require expensive equipment or years of experience, just some basic materials and a willingness to experiment. Let’s dive in.
What You’ll Need to Get Started
Before you begin, gather the following supplies. Many of these can be found at home, while others may require a quick trip to the store or some resourceful scavenging in nature.
Materials Checklist
- Cast Iron Pan
- A heavy wok or cast iron skillet works great for retaining and evenly distributing heat. If you have an old pan sitting around, now’s the time to put it to use.
- Wooden Stirring Spoon or Stick
- If you’re outdoors, find a sturdy stick, debark it, and ensure it’s long enough to keep your hands safe from the heat. The constant stirring motion is essential for an even roast.
- Hot Pads or Oven Mitts
- Protect your hands from the hot pan or flying sparks around the fire.
- Cooling Bed
- A flat surface like a baking sheet or large plate where the roasted coffee can cool and de-gas.
- Kindling and Firewood
- Pro Tip: Use hardwoods like oak for a steady, hot coal bed. Avoid softwoods like pine or cedar, which burn quickly and may flavor the coffee with smoke.
- Green Coffee Beans
- These are your raw ingredients. Consider sourcing high-quality beans from a reliable supplier like Rock Top Coffee, known for their excellent green coffee selection and farm-to-roaster connections.
- Metal Tongs
- Perfect for adjusting firewood and creating a uniform coal bed under your pan.
Step-by-Step Guide to Roasting Coffee Over an Open Fire
Step 1: Prepare the Fire
Start by building a fire with kindling and gradually add larger logs. Once the flames die down, you’ll be left with glowing hot coals—the ideal heat source for roasting coffee. Avoid roasting over an open flame, as it can create uneven heat and impart unwanted smoky flavors.
Step 2: Preheat Your Pan
Place your cast iron pan directly on the coals and allow it to heat up for a few minutes. No need to add oil; the coffee beans will naturally season the pan over time. Preheating ensures the beans roast evenly when you add them.
Step 3: Add Green Coffee Beans
Start small—use just enough beans to make a cup or two of coffee. A small batch allows you to practice without the pressure of managing a large quantity. Remember, roasting requires constant stirring, so avoid overloading the pan, which can lead to uneven roasting.
Step 4: Keep the Beans Moving
Once the beans are in the pan, stir constantly to ensure they roast evenly. Maintaining a steady hand and a consistent rhythm is key. This part of the process can take 10–15 minutes, so be patient and focused.
What to Look (and Listen) For
Color Changes
- Green to Yellow: The beans will start off green, then turn yellow as they warm up. You may notice a sweet, grassy aroma at this stage.
- Yellow to Light Brown: The beans transition to a pale brown. At this stage, you might think the roasting is complete, but the best flavors come from pushing further.
The First Crack
As the beans heat up, you’ll hear a distinct cracking sound. This is the first crack, signaling that the coffee has reached the light roast stage (often referred to as a Full City Roast). While you can stop here, you might prefer a darker roast.
Pushing Beyond the First Crack
For a medium to dark roast, continue roasting after the first crack. The beans will expand further, shed more chaff, and develop deeper flavors. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
Tips for Success
- Start Small: Roasting even half a pound of beans can be overwhelming for a beginner. Stick to small batches while you perfect your technique.
- Monitor Heat Levels: Too much heat can scorch the beans, while too little heat can lead to under-roasting. Adjust the coal bed as needed.
- Use Fresh Firewood: If possible, add a few hardwood logs toward the end of the fire to create the hottest, most stable coals.
- Experiment with Roast Levels: Everyone has their preference. Take notes on your roast times and color changes to replicate the results you like best.
Cooling and Storing Your Coffee
Once your beans reach the desired roast level, remove them from the pan and place them in a cooling bed. Spread them out evenly to cool quickly. Cooling is essential to stop the roasting process and lock in the flavors.
After cooling, store your beans in an airtight container. Let them rest for 12–24 hours to de-gas before grinding and brewing. Freshly roasted coffee has unmatched flavor, and the effort you put into roasting will be evident in every sip.
Why Roast Coffee Over an Open Fire?
Roasting over an open fire is not just about the coffee—it’s about the experience. Whether you’re on a camping trip or experimenting at home, the process connects you to the centuries-old tradition of coffee preparation. Plus, it’s a fun way to develop a deeper appreciation for the coffee you drink daily.
Final Thoughts
Roasting fire roasted coffee over an open fire is both challenging and rewarding. With the right tools, patience, and a bit of practice, you can produce a roast that rivals any commercial fire roasted coffee. Start small, embrace the learning process, and enjoy the journey from green beans to a steaming cup of fire roasted coffee perfection.
Have you ever roasted fire roasted coffee over a fire? Share your experience in the comments below!