So I have some free time... and since I'm celibate, a lot energy to devote to things that interest me. Anyway, I've always been interested in coffee. I decided to try this method:
http://homeroaster.com/heatgun.html
The pros described there outweighed the cons I saw. I'm now thinking of getting a Behmor 1600 roaster but that can wait a little while, I'm still having fun with this method.
My thoughts
-Make sure your bowl/pot/pan/whatever is big enough, I initially bought too small of a dog bowl and lost a lot of beans to stirring.
-When using the wooden spoon I stir with the end of the handle down. I find it works better for me. A whisk, in my opinion just doesn't properly move things around for an even roast.
-Make sure you don't zone out, I did and started a small fire which led to a LOT of smoke and a lot of chaff flying everywhere.
-Read the reviews at Sweet Maria's for the beans, but other places are cheaper. I also use Burman Coffee.
-I need a different grinder. This old Cuisinart whirly blade ain't cutting it. Perhaps I'll save up for a Macap but I'm thinking a Capresso Infinity 560 will meet my needs.
-Most people will have no clue what you're talking about. I've gotten, "So wait... you just grind it yourself?" or, "So the beans are black and you're just adding flavor right?" or, "You need to get laid." (Obviously, but that's another discussion.)
-A lot of people don't have the palate for coffee tasting. Since most of my friends are also cigar connoisseurs they can pick out flavors rather well. I enjoy talking about the various flavors with my friends.
-This is can quickly become expensive.
-You MUST have a way to make coffee other than drip, unless you have a Technivorm. Drip machines have about the worst extraction possible. I like my vacuum siphon pot best. French presses are about the cheapest and easiest way to make GOOD coffee.