Coffee bean grinding: finer or coarser?

Coffee bean grinding: finer or coarser?

The degree of grinding of coffee beans has an important impact on the taste of brewed coffee. Different brewing methods require different degrees of grinding of coffee beans, and fine or coarse coffee beans will also bring completely different tastes and flavors. So, should we choose finer or coarser grinding of coffee beans? The following will discuss from several aspects.

1. Brewing method

First, you need to consider what brewing method you will use to make coffee. Common methods include drip, French press, espresso, etc. Each method corresponds to the best effect within a certain size range of particles, so you need to choose the appropriate degree according to the specific situation.

Drip: This is the most common and easiest brewing method. It usually requires a medium to slightly fine particle size range (like sand). This ensures that the water can fully penetrate and contact a larger surface area of ​​the coffee powder, thereby extracting more flavor.

French Press: French presses require a coarser particle size (like sea salt). This is because when using a French press, the water is in contact with the coffee powder for a relatively long time through the filter. If the grind is too fine, it will result in a long brewing time and a harsh coffee taste.

Espresso: Making espresso requires a very fine particle size (like flour). Only in this way can water fully contact the coffee under high temperature and pressure and extract rich and strong flavor from it.

2. Taste preference

In addition to brewing methods, people also have different preferences for taste and flavor. Generally speaking, finely ground coffee beans can produce a fuller, stronger flavor. In contrast, coarse particles will bring a lighter and softer taste.

If you like a strong and full taste, you can choose fine grinding. This can increase the contact area between coffee and water, extract more coffee oil and dissolved substances. If you prefer a light and soft taste, then coarse grinding may be more suitable for you.

3. Coffee bean varieties

Different coffee bean varieties also affect the degree of grinding. Generally speaking, coffee beans from Asia or the Pacific with higher acidity and lighter taste are suitable for slightly finer grinding, while coffee beans from South America or Africa with lower acidity and stronger flavor are suitable for slightly coarser grinding.

Of course, your choice also comes down to personal preference and the specific situation. Sometimes you may find that a certain brewing method requires a grind that is opposite to the normal recommended grind size in order to achieve the best results.

4. Grinding equipment

The final factor is the type of grinding equipment used. Different types of equipment have different upper and lower limits on the particle size range that can be adjusted.

Manual grinder: Manual grinders are usually suitable for medium to coarse particle range. Due to the limitations of operation mode and mechanical principle, it is difficult to achieve very fine crushing.

Electric coffee bean grinder: Electric coffee bean grinders allow for a wider range of adjustments, from fine to coarse grinds. This makes it the most flexible and convenient option.

In short, when choosing the degree of coffee bean grinding, you need to consider multiple factors such as brewing method, taste preference, coffee bean variety, and equipment used. Only by making reasonable adjustments according to the specific situation can you brew delicious coffee that best suits your taste and preferences.