Origin and meaning of Giling Basah
Giling Basah, which means "wet grinding" in Indonesian, was developed in the 1970s. Since then, this technique has become the preferred method for processing coffee in Sumatra. The Giling Basah method differs significantly from conventional processing methods such as the dry and wet processes used in other coffee-growing regions of the world.
The process in detail
Harvesting and pulping
The coffee cherries are harvested by hand at optimal ripeness. After harvesting, the pulp of the cherries is mechanically removed, leaving the coffee beans surrounded by a mucilaginous layer known as mucilage.
fermentation
Unlike wet processing, where the mucilage is removed through fermentation, Indonesian farmers only ferment the beans briefly. This step is shorter and less intensive.
Partial drying
The beans are only partially dried until they reach a moisture content of approximately 30-40%. This differs significantly from other methods where the beans are dried to a moisture content of approximately 10-12%.
Wet-hulling
In this unique step, the still-moist beans are passed through a special machine called a huller to remove the parchment, the final layer surrounding the beans. This is done while the beans still have a high moisture content, which gives the method its name.
Final drying
After wet hulling, the beans are dried further, this time until they reach a moisture content of approximately 12-13%. This phase is crucial for stabilizing the beans and preparing them for export.
Taste and quality
The Giling Basah process gives Indonesian coffee its characteristic flavor. The beans develop a distinctive, earthy, and spicy note, often accompanied by a full body and low acidity. These flavor profiles are highly valued by coffee connoisseurs worldwide and make Indonesian coffee unique.
Importance for the local economy
The Giling Basah method is not just a technical process, but also an integral part of the Indonesian coffee industry. It enables farmers to effectively process coffee under Indonesia's unique climatic conditions. This contributes to the economic stability of many rural communities and supports the sustainable development of coffee cultivation in the region.
Conclusion
The Giling Basah method is a fascinating example of the diversity of coffee processing techniques worldwide. Through its unique approach and the resulting flavor profiles, it has secured a firm place in the global coffee world. For coffee lovers, Giling Basah offers a glimpse into the rich culture and heritage of Indonesian coffee cultivation, which is expressed in every cup.
