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Posted on 11/09/201710/24/2020 by konacoffeeadmin

Health benefits of drinking coffee!

Coffee Health Benefits

Several years of research has allowed scientists to discover the amazing health benefits of drinking coffee. Even a few years ago, we read about the dangers of coffee, while now the researchers keep finding the evidence of coffee’s properties that were previously unknown.

Coffee Gives You Energy

For many, it is the main reason why they drink coffee – to restore energy in the morning after a long night of work. Consequently it works, all because of caffeine. However, caffeine also improves other aspects of our brain function, including mood, reaction, vigilance, and memory. So, not only can you feel energized after a cup of coffee, you’ll feel happier and remember things better.

Caffeine Improves Performance and Helps You Burn Fat

There is no need for expensive fat burners full of artificial ingredients when you can simply drink coffee. You can experience the benefits without harming your body. Coffee boosts metabolism and aids in fat burning, so it is a good idea to drink a cup before going to the gym. Moreover, because of breaking down body fat, caffeine turns it into fuel and improves your physical performance. Therefore your regular exercises at the gym can be more intense and beneficial.

Coffee Is Packed with Antioxidants and Nutrients

Though nutritional content of coffee is not the same as that of coffee beans. Brewed coffee retains many essential nutrients. These include Vitamins B2, B3, and B5, potassium and manganese. Coffee is also a great source of antioxidant flavanols and other antioxidants. For people living in the US, coffee may be the biggest source of antioxidants. Consequently due to lower consumption of fruits and vegetables.

Coffee May Offer Protection from Chronic Diseases

According to studies, drinking coffee every day can lower the risk of developing type II diabetes and Parkinson’s disease. Also coffee offers protection from dementia and Alzheimer’s. Prevention in these cases is crucial, since there is no cure for these chronic conditions. Offering protection for your body and mind is among other health benefits of drinking coffee.

Coffee Can Protect You from Cancer and Stroke

Liver and colorectal cancer are the third and the fourth leading causes of cancer deaths in the world. Researchers have found out that coffee can offer protection from both of them. Studies show reduced risk of liver cancer in regular coffee drinkers. Also a reduced risk of colorectal cancer in those drinking 4-5 cups of coffee every day. Caffeine can also offer protection from stroke, and not cause it, as was thought years ago. In fact, the studies have demonstrated lower risk of heart disease and stroke in people consuming coffee regularly.

Coffee Promotes Longevity

Based on the studies showing that coffee offers disease protection. It is no surprise that promoting longevity is one of the health benefits of drinking coffee. Large studies conducted over several years found lower risks of death in both men and women. Especially in those suffering from diabetes.

Packed with antioxidants, caffeine gives you energy and fuels your exercises. Also it protects you from serious diseases and overall helps you live a longer life. If you would like to start enjoying the health benefits of drinking coffee, you’ll find the best Kona Coffee shipped fresh from Kona, Hawaii in the Kona Coffee Store – https://store.konacoffee.com.

Posted on 11/19/201710/24/2020 by konacoffeeadmin

The First Settlements in Hawaii by the Polynesians

When did people first come to Hawaii?

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

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?

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.

Posted on 11/19/201710/24/2020 by konacoffeeadmin

Englishmen and the Discovery of Hawaii

Who Is Responsible for the Discovery of Hawaii?

Captain James Cook's statue in New Zealand Discovery of Hawaii — Captain James Cook’s statue in New Zealand

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

Hawaii, Discovery of Hawaii — 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.

Posted on 11/19/201710/24/2020 by konacoffeeadmin

What Is the Difference Between Types of Coffee?

How do you like your coffee in the morning? Espresso or decaf? With milk or black? These are just some of the decisions you take when you decide to grab a cup of coffee. But did you know there are more than a hundred different species of coffee growing in the world? Have you tried all of them? Most likely not. But, certainly, you have tried the two main types of coffee beans: Coffee Arabica and Coffee Robusta. Did you know that these two species are the most cultivated among the coffee beans? Many people do not question the type of bean that goes in their coffee, but it is good to know about them. What is the difference between types of coffee? Let’s find out.

Growing Coffee Arabica and Coffee Robusta

First difference between the two main types of beans is in their cultivation. Arabica plants usually grow about 4.5 meter tall, while Robusta plants can reach 6 meters. Arabica is more expensive than Robusta because it is more difficult to cultivate. The latter is easier to grow and more resistant to insects. However, the most popular of the two remains Arabica. About 75% of the coffee production goes to Arabica beans, leaving only 25% to Robusta. Arabica beans are oval in shape, while Robusta beans are rather round.

Caffeine, Sugar and Antioxidant Content

The two main types of beans differ in the amount of antioxidants, caffeine, sugar, and other compounds. For example, the caffeine content is different, with 2.7% caffeine in Robusta and 1.5% in Arabica. Moreover, Arabica beans have 60% more lipids and natural sugars compared to Robusta. In addition, the antioxidant Chlorogenic acid content is 10% in Robusta, with 8% in Arabica. Robusta beans is richer in caffeine, antioxidants, and other chemical compounds. However, Arabica is still the most popular. Why?

It Is All about the Taste?

It is no surprise that Coffee Arabica takes the leading place among the coffee species. The majority of people in the world believe that Robusta does not taste good. Robusta beans have more caffeine and less sugars, which gives them a bitter taste. Arabica beans have a unique fruity and sweet flavor compared to Robusta. This is why people from all over the world enjoy drinking it. Even among Arabica beans, there is a difference between types of coffee, the final product. Every coffee bean brings a unique flavor to the table.

There are so many different Arabica flavors based on the region of cultivation. Consequently, depending on where the coffee is grown, even the popular Arabica type of beans can gain a richer and deeper flavor. The flavors in the beans depend on several factors, including soil, weather, and temperature. A few examples of different varieties of Arabica beans are Columbian, Java, Sumatran, Kenyan, and Hawaiian Kona. Kona Coffee from Kona region on the Big Island of Hawaii trumps other Arabica beans because of the rich volcanic soil and climate near Kona Mountains. Experience the rich and exquisite flavor of 100% Kona Coffee with our FREE shipping options!

Posted on 11/19/201710/24/2020 by konacoffeeadmin

What Is the Best Coffee Roaster for Home?

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?

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.

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.

Posted on 11/19/201710/24/2020 by konacoffeeadmin

What Do I Need to Roast Coffee at Home?

How do I roast coffee at home?

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?

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.

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!

100% Pure Kona Extra Fancy “green” beans available here.

Posted on 11/19/201710/24/2020 by konacoffeeadmin

What Makes Kona Coffee Special?

“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?

Kona Coffee Plantation — 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.

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.

Posted on 11/13/201710/24/2020 by konacoffeeadmin

What is the meaning of the name Kona?

The Meaning of the Name Kona

The word Kona exists in many languages across the world. 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: southwesterly winter wind in Hawaii, often strong and bringing rain. 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. Ships visiting and — 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).

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 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 Snow - Kona Coffee blossoms as it pertains to the meaning of the name Kona — 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!