Which method uses no water and allows the fruit to dry directly on the bean?

The method that uses no water and allows the fruit to dry directly on the bean is known as the natural process. In this method, coffee cherries are harvested and then spread out in the sun to dry without removing the outer fruit layer. This drying process allows the sugars from the fruit to penetrate the beans, which can lead to a sweeter and more fruit-forward flavor profile in the final coffee. This method is particularly used in regions where water is scarce, making it an efficient choice for processing coffee.

In contrast, the washed method involves removing the fruit from the bean before fermentation and drying, which famously requires significant amounts of water. The semi-washed method also involves a degree of water use, while the wet process entails fully washing the beans to remove the fruit before drying. Thus, the natural method stands out as the one that avoids water use completely while allowing the fruit to influence the bean's flavor during the drying phase.