The Importance Of Getting The Right Grind

Are you tired of mediocre coffee that lacks flavor and aroma? Getting excellent beans doesn't ensure that you will have a fantastic cup of coffee.  One of the secrets to a perfect cup of coffee lies in properly grinding your coffee beans. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of grinding coffee and provide you with expert tips to achieve the best results. So grab your favorite mug and let's dive in!

Why is grinding coffee important?

Grinding coffee is a crucial step in the brewing process as it directly affects the flavor and aroma of your cup. When coffee beans are ground, their surface area increases, allowing for better extraction of the desirable compounds. This leads to a more flavorful and aromatic brew that will awaken your senses.

What is the right grind size?

The grind size you choose depends on the brewing method you prefer. For a standard drip coffee maker, a medium grind is recommended. If you're a fan of espresso, a fine grind is necessary to achieve the perfect shot. French press enthusiasts should opt for a coarse grind to prevent over-extraction.

How to grind coffee beans?

Now that you understand the importance of grind size, let's discuss the different methods of grinding coffee beans:

1. Blade grinders:

Blade grinders are the most common and affordable option. They work by chopping the beans with spinning blades. However, they can result in an inconsistent grind size, which may negatively impact the flavor of your coffee.  We do not recommend these grinders as they make it difficult to achieve good results.

2. Burr grinders:

Burr grinders are the preferred choice of coffee connoisseurs. They crush the beans between two abrasive surfaces, resulting in a more uniform grind. Burr grinders offer greater control over the grind size, allowing you to achieve the perfect consistency for your brewing method.  You can find our selection of quality burr grinders here: https://www.pre-umber.ca/collections/coffee-grinders

Tips for the perfect grind:

Here are some expert tips to ensure you get the most out of your coffee beans:

1. Invest in a quality grinder:

A high-quality grinder, especially a burr grinder, is worth the investment. It will provide consistent results and allow you to adjust the grind size according to your preference.  You really get what you pay for when it comes to grinders.

2. Grind just before brewing:

To preserve the freshness and flavour of your coffee, grind the beans just before you're ready to brew. This will prevent the loss of volatile compounds that contribute to the aroma and taste.

3. Store your beans properly:

Store your freshly roasted coffee whole beans in an airtight container away from light, heat, and moisture.  Some amazing coffee storage container are made by Fellow and Timemore.

4. Experiment with grind size:

Don't be afraid to experiment with different grind sizes to find your perfect cup of coffee. If you are experiencing a sourness to your cup of coffee this likely comes from your coffee being under-extracted.  You can rectify this by grinding your coffee a little bit smaller or allowing it to stay in contact with the coffee beans for a longer period of time.  On the other hand if you are tasting bitterness in your coffee you may want to grind your coffee a little bit larger so that you don't over-extract your coffee or decrease the time that your water is in contact with the coffee.

By following these tips and understanding the importance of grinding coffee, you'll be well on your way to brewing the perfect cup every time. So go ahead, grind those beans, and savour the rich flavours and enticing aromas that await you!