How to grind coffee beans to make them more fragrant

Importance of Grinding Coffee Beans

Grinding coffee beans is one of the key steps to determine the richness of coffee aroma. Only when the coffee beans are crushed into particles of appropriate size can the aroma and taste be fully released. Therefore, mastering the correct grinding method is essential to making a strong and fragrant coffee.

Choose the right grinding tool

Before we start, we need to choose a suitable coffee bean grinder. There are two common types: manual and electric. The manual type is more flexible and portable, and the powder size can be adjusted according to personal preference; while the electric type is more convenient and quick, suitable for daily use.

Determine the desired particle size

Different types and brands of coffee machines have different requirements for the required particle size. Generally speaking, a finer and more uniform, sand-like size (medium grind) is the grinding degree required by most home drip or French press devices to achieve the best concentration and aroma.

Keeping coffee beans fresh

Before grinding, it is important to ensure the freshness of the coffee beans. Fresh coffee beans contain more volatile compounds, which are key to producing a rich aroma and flavor. Therefore, it is recommended to buy whole coffee beans and store them in a vacuum-sealed container as much as possible before use.

Adjust grinding time

For manual or electric coffee machines, different brands and models may require different grinding times. Generally speaking, a finer and more uniform grind similar to fine sand (medium grind) takes about 20-30 seconds. If you like coarser particles, please shorten the time; on the contrary, if you like a finer and more uniform grind, please extend the time.

Controlling temperature and humidity

When grinding coffee beans, pay attention to the impact of ambient temperature and humidity on the results. High temperature or high humidity will cause the coffee beans to become damp and soft, and the size of the ground particles will be uneven. Therefore, before grinding, make sure the working area is at a suitable temperature and try to avoid an environment with excessive humidity.

Use the right techniques

It is also very important to master the correct technique when using coffee bean grinding equipment. For manual coffee machines, evenly and steadily turning the handle or pressing the button can ensure consistent particle size; for electric coffee machines, you need to be careful not to vibrate or shake excessively during processing.

Use freshly ground coffee immediately

Finally, coffee beans should be used as soon as possible after grinding. Freshly ground coffee beans lose their aroma and flavor easily, so it is recommended to use them for brewing within 15 minutes. If they cannot be used immediately, store them in a vacuum-sealed container to reduce oxidation and volatilization.

Conclusion

By choosing the right utensils, determining the particle size, keeping the coffee beans fresh, adjusting the grinding time, controlling the temperature and humidity, and using the right techniques, we can grind the coffee beans better and make their aroma more intense. The correct execution of these steps will bring us a cup of delicious coffee with a rich taste and overflowing aroma.