Is it possibly to identify a bean's species based on it's shape and size? I heard that forastero will often have a dimple and look very almond like.
Any tips for identifying a beans species if you had just a grab bag of different types?
Any help would be appreciated!
No.
I certainly haven't seen as many as Sebastian. There are a few clues that can be suggestive but I haven't found any good indicator. Even smell and taste aren't a sure criteria.
No.
Sebastian is right.
There is no way that I know of to know what the variety of cacao is just by looking at it. Size is not an indicator - either very large or very small.
Color doesn't say anything as there are "Trinitario-hybrid" varieties (I am thinking of the acriollados in Nicaragua) that can be 10-30% white or pale (lila).
Aroma and taste are no help either.
That said, if you have been working with the same beans from multiple origins for a long period of time you can learn to distinguish between those reliably. However that won't help you when it comes to other sources.
