There’s nothing like visiting Kona coffee farms if you’re looking for a complete coffee experience when you visit Hawaii. Unless you’ve flown direct to Kona, you’ll probably have to take an interisland flight to the Big Island of Hawaii. The Kona International Airport is located outside the town at Keahole Point. If you’re in Hilo, you can drive to Kona, but it takes about two and half hours (one way) to get there on the old scenic roads. Continue reading Kona Coffee Farms in the State of Hawaii
RoastingKona Coffee heats the green beans to a desired taste and doneness. The length of time in the roaster varies from approximately 12 to 18 minutes. Time and temperature vary depending on the desired results. Coffee roasting is an art and a science that requires creativity, skill and quality equipment. A great roast master is able to combine scientific analysis, technical ability and art to create the perfect roast profile.
The first settlements in Hawaii appeared around 300-600 A.D. The first people to reach Hawaii were Polynesians who came to the island from the Marquesas Islands. These settlers built their homes near the ocean and started farming, providing food for themselves while on the island. These first settlers have lived on the island hundreds of years until the next group of settlers arrived, also Polynesians, but from Tahiti. The Tahitians did not want to co-exist along with the Polynesian farmers, so they exiled them to the mountains. Tahitians lived on the Hawaiian Islands until James Cook and his crew arrived in the late 1700s.
The First Settlements in Hawaii Were Farmers and Fishermen
Sunset in Hawaii
While on Hawaiian Islands, the Polynesians were providing for themselves through farming and fishing. They did not arrive at the island empty-handed; on the ships, they brought their native seeds and plants, like taro and sugar cane, along with animals, including pigs and chickens. Since the first settlements, the agricultural tradition continued with Hawaiians for a long time. During the King’s rule, the islands were divided into several regions, or ahupua’a, with chieftains in charge and their people, farmers and fishermen. The King divided the land in such way that each region had zones with mountaintops, shoreline, and the farming area in between. Fishermen took their places on the shores, in specific areas. Ahupua’a system also promoted trading between the lands to make sure all of them prosper.
What Was the Culture of the First Settlers?
Hawaiian Hula Dancers
Besides the plants and animals native to their homeland, the first settlers from Polynesia brought their traditions, crafts, and religious beliefs. Consequently, Polynesian ancestry influenced Hawaiian native customs and traditions. However, Hawaiians perfected and refined the cultural aspects of Polynesian traditions. One of the examples is the clothing that Hawaiian settlers were making. While they used the same material, kapa, for their clothing, Hawaiians were more creative with the material than their ancestors. They used pigments from vegetables to dye their clothes in different colors. Moreover, they used flowers to make the clothes fragrant. They also stamped their clothing with bamboo to create patterns. Among other cultural aspects are physical and recreational activities. Hawaiians had competitions with neighboring lands in athletics, swimming, and games.
The People of Hawaii in the Present Day
Hawaiians do their best to preserve their cultural heritage. Many natives participate in the arts and crafts dating back to their early ancestors. The people of Hawaii have a very close connection to nature, and it is perhaps the reason why they have a tight connection with the traditions of their ancestors. The Hawaiians are very kind and hospitable. Their culture is known for its welcoming and inviting spirit. Hawaiian unique greeting “Aloha” expresses their spirit of goodness and harmony. Ordinarily, sources sometimes refer to it as “the spirit of Aloha”. This harmonious spirit of Aloha is born from Hawaiian deep love and respect from nature, which they inherited from their ancestors.
Captain James Cook, the English explorer, became the first European to discover Hawaii islands on January 18, 1778. Cook was a captain in the Royal Navy, as well as navigator, explorer, and cartographer. Captain Cook’s created detailed maps of Canadian island Newfoundland. Moreover, he went on three trips to the Pacific Ocean, discovered the eastern coastline of Australia and Hawaii. Captain Cook also traveled around New Zealand.
How Did Cook Discover Hawaii?
Captain James Cook was sailing past the island of Oahu with his crew. Then he came across the eastern coastline of Hawaiian Islands. After two days of sailing, Cook landed at the island of Kauai. Captain Cook also came up with the name for the island group he discovered. Cook called Hawaii the Sandwich Islands in honor of one of his patrons, the earl of Sandwich.
What Did Captain Cook Discover before He Came to Hawaii?
Before he discovered Hawaii, Captain James Cook was a lieutenant on a Royal Navy ship Endeavor. It was back in 1768. Together with his crew, Cook was mapping the course of planet Venus. Traveling for the following three years, Cook has explored New Zealand and Australia. Furthermore, he went with his crew around the globe.
Captain Cook’s Landing in Hawaii
Hawaiians welcomed Cook and his crew. They found the captain’s ships and Europeans’ use of iron intriguing. Englishmen began trading with Hawaiians. Captain Cook and his crew traded metal and iron nails. Consequently, they managed to maintain provisions on the ship. However, neither Cook nor his crew stayed in Kauai for long. After leaving the place, the explorers continued north. They wanted to find the end of the northwestern passage between North Atlantic and Pacific oceans. After one more year of sailing, Cook’s ships returned to Hawaii and docked in the safety of Kealakekua Bay.
Relationship Between Hawaiians and Englishmen
Hawaiian arts and crafts
Captain’s ships landed in Hawaii for the second time. Englishmen believed that the local population associates their arrival with some religious symbolism. Cook and his crew arrived at the time of the Makahiki festival. The Makahiki was dedicated to the Hawaiian god of fertility, Lono. Locals saw it as a sign and welcomed and treated them as gods. Englishmen shamelessly abused the hospitality of Hawaiians. However, when one of the crew members passed away, locals realized they were people just like them. This changed the relationships between the two. In the beginning of 1779, Cook wanted to return to England, but one of his ships were damaged during the storm and they had to return to Hawaii.
When Englishmen came back, the Makahiki had ended and nobody was happy to see them. Hawaiians threw rocks at them and stole an item from their ship. While Cook tried to negotiate with the Hawaiian King to return the item, the King was murdered. Locals gathered and attacked Cook and his crew. Many men were killed, including Captain Cook. Once Englishmen went back to the ship, they fired cannons at the locals, killing some of them. Eventually, the ships returned to England.
The discovery of Hawaii by Captain James Cook is an important event in history. However, the discovery was tainted because of how Englishmen tried to exploit Hawaiians.
Since the quality of coffee begins to decline after roasting, many coffee drinkers consider roasting their own coffee at home. Ordinarily, when you roast coffee yourself, you know when it is fresh. Moreover, you control the level of roasting and can achieve the perfect cup at the end. While coffee is green, its quality will not drop for up to one year counting from the arrival date. However, to roast coffee at home, you need a purpose built roasting machine. So, what is the best coffee roaster for home?
Darker Roast
Things to Consider When Choosing a Roaster
Generally, you cannot say that a particular machine is the best coffee roaster. There are many options that you should consider and make a decision based on your preferences. When you choose a roaster, think about your budget, your desired roast, and the amount of coffee you normally drink.
First, if you like dark roasts, choose Gene Cafe or air roaster because they work better with dark roasts. Second, depending on the machine, you will be working with 4-12 oz. batches. Usually, 4 oz. of green coffee will result in 26-42 oz. of brewed coffee (depending on how strong you make your coffee). A Gene Cafe or a HotTop will make twice more coffee, while a Behmor 1600 will make up to a full pound of light roast. So, if you drink a lot of coffee, you should consider a larger drum roaster instead of an air roaster. Lastly, drum roasters are much more expensive compared to air roasters so plan accordingly.
Air Roaster or Drum Roaster?
Air roasters use hot air for moving and roasting coffee. Examples of those are Nesco and Fresh Roast. Usually, air roast takes about 8-12 minutes. If the roast stays less, the flavor might not develop completely. If the roast stays too long, the flavor might dull. Drum roasters are larger in size and they move the beans using a rotating drum. Examples of those machines are Behmor 1600, Gene Cafe and HotTop. It takes longer to roast the coffee using those, about 14-20 minutes. While air roasters make coffee brighter, drum roasters tend to develop the flavor better.
Lighter Roast
How Long Does a Roaster Last?
The longevity of the roaster depends on the regularity of use and maintenance. Small roasters normally last around two years. They might last longer if you use them less often, clean them regularly and make lighter roasts. However, if you use the roaster a lot, do not clean it, and make dark roasts, the machine can have a shorter lifespan. If you choose a drum roast, you have an option to replace parts instead of replacing the whole unit. This saves you money in the long run.
Roasters for Beginners
Smaller machines like Nesco or Fresh Roast do a great job roasting coffee beans. Fresh Roast is good for beginners, affordable and small, which makes it perfect for those who do not drink a lot of coffee. Nesco is bigger and has a feature for smoke reduction, which is great if you do not have good ventilation. It is tricky if you buy a large machine without knowing how to use it, but it is also tricky to buy a machine that will not produce enough coffee.
If you do drink a lot of coffee or if you already know some things about roasting, going with a larger drum machine is a good choice. Such roasters as HotTop, Gene Cafe, and Behmor allow you to control time and temperature. A lot of these machines now include programming features which help you tailor the roast to the coffee beans. All things considered, choose a roaster depending on your needs. Think about your budget, the amount of coffee you drink, and the desired roast.
Understanding how to roast coffee at home makes you appreciate the drink even more than before. In addition, your beans remain as fresh as possible and you control the lightness or darkness of the roast. Roasting coffee at home is exciting and very rewarding. So, how do you roast coffee at home?
Green coffee beans ready to be roasted.
Methods of Roasting at Home
If you want to achieve the best results, then you would want to use a purpose built roasting machine. However, you probably do not own one, so that would be your most expensive option. High quality roasting machines can range around $500. A cheaper way to roast coffee at home is by using a pan, grill, or oven.
The Roasting Process
Roasting is a process that includes several steps, which are the same for every roasting method. Firstly, the roasting temperature is normally between 350°F and 500°F. However, the exact temperature depends on the roasting method you are using. Secondly, beans need agitation – constantly moving beans will ensure an even roast. Thirdly, when the beans reach the right temperature they will “crack” for the first time. At this stage they are considered lightly roasted. For a medium to dark roast, let them stay for a few more minutes until you hear the second crack. Finally, cool the beans by shaking them between two metal colanders until they have cooled.
Roasted Coffee Beans
Roasting in the Grill or Pan
Roasting coffee in the oven or a pan is very popular because many people have these at home. This method is convenient and cheap, but it is very smoky. Also the beans need constant agitation to insure they are roasted evenly. Furthermore, make sure to avoid coated pans to preserve flavor of the beans. Ensure good ventilation before starting to roast. Use a thick pan and place it on medium heat. Next, add the beans leaving room for stirring and expansion of the beans. Constantly stirring, wait to hear the first crack a light roast and second crack for a medium to dark roasts. Continue with cooling down and removing chaff, then leave exposed for 1-3 days to de-gas.
Roasting in the Oven
Roasting coffee in the oven is also cheap, but very smoky and slower than other methods. Preheat oven to 500°F (this temperature may vary depending on the oven). Ensure good ventilation. Place the beans on a perforated tray on middle shelf in the oven. Wait for the first crack for a light roast and second crack for a medium roast. Cool down and remove chaff, then leave exposed for 1-3 days to de-gas.
Roasting in a Purpose Built Roasting Machine
A roasting machine is an expensive investment, but it is meant to last. It is also easy to use and to clean up afterwards. Firstly, always make sure you have good ventilation because roasting produces a lot of smoke. Secondly, follow manufacturer’s instructions for roasting. Some machines are fully automatic, but you still should look over the process. If your machine does not have a cooling process, use the colander method mentioned earlier. Leave the beans for 1-3 days to de-gas.
These are some of the methods of roasting coffee at home. All in all, it is up to you which one to use. Happy roasting!
“Kona Coffee has a richer flavor than any other, be it grown where it may and call it by what name you please,” said Mark Twain in 1866. Indeed, people recognize and value Kona Coffee around the world for its special aroma and unique flavor. Rare and unique, Kona coffee is precious to the people of Hawaii and to the people who have tasted it at least once. But what makes Kona coffee special?
Why Does Kona Coffee Taste so Good?
Coffee farm in Kona, Hawaii
What gives Kona Coffee its unique taste prized all over the world? The rich volcanic soil, high elevation, ideal temperatures, and cloud coverage from Hualalai and Mauna Loa Mountains make Kona region the best place to grow coffee beans. The Kona Mountains protect the land from harsh weather. Moreover, sunny mornings and light rains in the afternoon provide the perfect climate for growing coffee. Consequently, this unique environment gives Kona Coffee an advantage over other types of coffee grown in different parts of the world.
People of Hawaii Take Great Care of Kona Coffee
Kona Coffee trees usually bloom after the winter and are ready for harvesting by the end of the summer. Before the harvest begins, you can see the change in the coffee trees. Instead of the beautiful white flowers, “Kona Snow”, the trees have red beans resembling cherries. It is not cheap to grow coffee free of infestation. Ordinarily, this is what makes Kona coffee special and more expensive than many other types of coffee.
Ripe Kona Coffee “Cherries”
After the coffee is hand-picked, it might take two weeks for it to be ready for sale after pulping, drying, and hulling before grading. Only the best coffee beans make it into the final product. The 100% Kona coffee directly from the Kona region of the Big Island of Hawaii meets very high standards. People working on the coffee fields and farms, at the mills, and over the roasters take great care to make sure customers drink the best coffee. Furthermore, there are strict rules for labeling coffee in Hawaii, and only true Kona coffee can receive a label 100% Kona coffee. The Kona Coffee Council was formed to protect Kona coffee.
Kona Coffee Is a Rare Find
Real Kona coffee is very rare. Only coffee from the South and North districts of Kona region of the Big Island of Hawaii is truly Kona Coffee. If you purchase a Kona blend in a store, it might have as little as 10% of Kona coffee beans. Meanwhile, the other 90% is made up of less expensive types of coffee beans.
Drinking real Kona Coffee is a wonderful experience. The best way to find a truthful product is to order it directly from a locally owned and operated source. This is why we offer 100% Pure Kona Coffee directly from Kona, Hawaii with FREE shipping options on select products. It is no wonder people from all over the world love Kona coffee. Its unique blend of aromatic flavors and rich taste make it the best coffee around! Some say its the best in the world. Give it a try, and you may never want to drink any other coffee again.
The word Kona exists in many languages across the world, say experts from Woocasino. Additionally, the translations from different languages vary. Also translations from Hawaiian are different depending on the source. By combining several translations from Hawaiian, we can relate the meaning of the name Kona to Kona Coffee.
Kona Winds
Definition:southwesterlywinterwindinHawaii,oftenstrongandbringingrain. Trade winds are the typical winds in Hawaii. Trade winds are the prevailing pattern of easterly surface winds usually blowing in Hawaii. When the wind changes and becomes southwesterly, these are known as the “Kona Winds”.
Kona District
Kailua-Kona: Visiting ships, Kailua Bay and Kailua Pier.
Kona is the name of the sunny district on Hawaii Island, with its largest town Kailua-Kona. Kailua-Kona, Hawaii derives from the meaning of Kailua. Kailua means “two seas”. Kailua Bay is where two currents meet. Furthermore one of the translations of the word Kona has given the name to this district. It signifies “dry side of the island” or “leeward”. The district takes up an expansive area of the island. It stretches from Manuka Park (Kau) to the south of Anaehoomalu Bay (Waikoloa Beach Resort).
In addition to amazing natural attractions, online casinos are also becoming popular in the Kona District. The allure of virtual gambling games has steadily grown, offering a thrilling escape for locals and tourists alike. With the rise of online platforms such as OnlineCasinosBE.com, enthusiasts can now enjoy their favorite casino games from the comfort of their homes or while soaking in the breathtaking scenery of Kona. The convenience of online casinos has transformed the traditional gambling experience. Players can access a wide array of games, from classic slots to immersive live dealer options, with just a few clicks. Moreover, the availability of mobile gaming has further expanded the reach of online casinos, allowing individuals to indulge in their passion while on the go. Beyond convenience, online casinos offer enticing bonuses and promotions to attract players. From welcome bonuses to loyalty rewards, these incentives enhance the excitement of playing and provide opportunities to win big. Additionally, the anonymity of online gambling appeals to those who prefer to keep their recreational activities private.
Kona’s district has rich history. You can join walking tours to observe its landmarks. One of the historical events you might know about Kona includes the final years spent by King Kamehameha in Kailua-Kona. In addition, many know about the arrival and eventually death of Captain James Cook in Kealakekua Bay. There are also two large national historic parks, Honaunau and Kaloko-Honokohau. There you can explore the beautiful nature and historic landmarks of the district.
Kona Coffee
Kona Coffee is the gem of Kona District and ordinarily it received its name. This type of coffee has a great advantage over other types of coffee you can find across the world. Its advantages come from the unique location and environment, especially rich volcanic soil of Mauna Loa and Hualalai Mountains.
To learn more about the past and the present of Kona Coffee, you can read about coffee farming in Kona District, Hawaii. Moreover, you can view the images of Kona Coffee trees, flowers (“Kona Snow”) and cherries.
Kona Coffee’s unique flavor is a beloved choice among coffee aficionados worldwide. Its distinctively smooth taste and rich aroma have captivated the palates of many, earning it a place of honor in the realm of gourmet beverages. However, its appeal doesn’t stop there. Interestingly, Kona Coffee’s allure extends beyond the confines of traditional cafes and kitchen counters, finding a surprising fan base among online casino players. In the fast-paced world of online gambling, where excitement and anticipation reign supreme, players often seek out experiences that tantalize their senses in every way possible. This quest for sensory pleasure doesn’t stop at the virtual slot machines or card tables; it extends to the beverages they choose to accompany their gaming sessions at gamblingorb-gr.com. Here’s where Kona Coffee steps in, offering a delightful sensory experience that complements the thrill of online gameplay. Picture this: a player, settled comfortably in front of their computer or mobile device, ready to embark on a thrilling journey through the virtual casino landscape. As they immerse themselves in the world of online gambling, they crave a beverage that not only satisfies their taste buds but also enhances their gaming experience. Enter Kona Coffee, with its velvety texture and nuanced flavor profile, providing the perfect accompaniment to the excitement unfolding on the screen.
Kona Fun – Baby Names
The name Kona is used as a baby name for both girls and boys in Hawaii. One of the translations of the word signifies “lady”. This makes it a beautiful name for a baby girl. Moreover, the name also means “origin, popularity, and the world rule”. This translation makes it an attractive name for baby boys, too. Ordinarily, Kona seems to be a popular name for Hawaiian children.
Meanings Combined in Kona Coffee
Kona Coffee blossoms aka “Kona Snow”
Kona Coffee Flowers – “Kona Snow”You may ask, “How can I relate these meanings to kona coffee?” Let’s start with the beginning. Kona coffee received its name after the district where farmers are growing it, located on the “dry side” of the Big Island of Hawaii. But, how is Kona coffee “a lady”? Take a look at the beautiful coffee flowers called “Kona Snow”. They look very gentle and fragile, so Kona Coffee blooms very lady-like. In addition, Kona Coffee’s popularity is growing and it might very well be called the best coffee in the world because of its environmental and processing advantages over many other types of coffee. All things considered, Kona Coffee means a lot of good things, and you shouldn’t wait to order your 100% pure Kona Coffee, especially with FREE shipping options!
The Kona Coffee Festival recognizes the achievements of Kona’s coffee pioneers, farmers and artisans. This award-winning coffee fest is recognized as the oldest and most successful food festival in Hawaii. The festival starts Friday, November 3 and runs through Sunday, November 12, 2017. The festival includes 10 days of events honoring Kona coffees cultural heritage.
Festival Events include:
A Lantern Parade. Historic Kailua Village. Nov 3, 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm. Watch as the lantern parade winds its way through Historic Kailua Village with its glowing procession of light, music and color. And finally culminating with an evening bon dance at Hale Halawai.
The Holualoa Village Coffee & Art Stroll. In historic Holualoa Village. Nov 4 – 9:00 am – 3:00 pm. Stroll through the art district of quaint Holualoa Village. While strolling visit galleries exhibiting an extensive collection of local artists. Also over 30 Kona coffee farms join the festivities offering tastings and products for purchase.
The Miss Kona Coffee Scholarship Pageant.Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa – Kaleiopapa Convention Center. Nov 4 – 5:30 pm. The Miss Kona Coffee Scholarship Pageant is hosted by the Kona Coffee Fest each November. A big mahalo to the scholarship sponsor – Ueshima Coffee Company, Ltd.
The newly crowned winner will also travel to Japan to promote Kona, it’s special coffee and the industry.
The Kona Coffee Recipe Contest & Big Island Showcase.Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa – Kaleiopapa Convention Center. Nov 5 – 10:00 am – 3:00 pm. Big Island Showcase opens at 10 a.m. Featuring Hawaii Island products, gifts, and opportunities to buy farmer-direct Kona coffee. Also amateurs, culinary students and professional chefs present their favorite sweet and savory recipes . All featuring 100% Kona Coffee. Keiki (children) showcase sweet or savory snacks. Recipe contest doors open at 11 a.m.
Kona Coffee Cultural Fest Ho’olaule’a. Makaeo County Pavilion. Nov 11 – 9:00 am – 3:00 pm. A celebration of all things Kona coffee.
Ho’olaule’a vents include:
Hands-on cultural demonstrations.
An ethnic food market.
The Festival of Arts & Crafts.
Additionally, all-day live entertainment.
Enjoy the beautiful lei contest. Participate in traditional Hawaiian poi making, ikebana and traditional Japanese calligraphy. Also visit the heritage display. Indeed, all day fun for the entire ohana (family).
Kona Coffee Council Farm & Mill Tour. Leaves from Keauhou Shopping Center.Nov 7 and 10th – 9:00 am – 2:00 pm. You will visit three working coffee farms in Kona. The fee of $75 includes your transportation and a box lunch. Pick up and drop off located in front of Regal Keauhou Stadium 7 Theatres in the Keauhou Shopping Center. Reservations required; book online at www.kona-coffee-council.com.
Kona Coffee Living History Farm Tour – November 3-10, 2017. Daily at 2:00 pm. $10 with festival button (available for purchase on site). Stroll through this historic farm on a self-guided tour that reveals the story of Kona’s coffee pioneers during the early 20th century. Walk among the coffee trees and meet a “Kona Nightingale”. Also discover how farmers used the kuriba and hoshidana to mill and dry Kona’s world-famous coffee.
Kona Coffee is the gem of Kona District and ordinarily it received its name. This type of coffee has a great advantage over other types of coffee you can find across the world. Its advantages come from the unique location and environment, especially rich volcanic soil of Mauna Loa and Hualalai Mountains.
The