Types of ground coffee: find out which coffee maker is ideal for each person
Have you ever wondered why your coffee doesn't taste the way you expected it to? The secret is in the type of grind. Choosing the right one, among the different types of ground coffee for your coffee maker, is key to getting that delicious flavor we all seek.
It is essential to know that each of the coffee extraction methods requires a specific texture so that the water can extract the flavors optimally. Therefore, knowing the types of grind and how they adapt to your coffee machine is essential to enjoy a perfect cup.
Below, we show you the different types of grinds and which coffee makers work best with each one.
Types of ground coffee : fine, medium and coarse
There are three main types of grinding, let's break them down:
Fine grind: ideal for quick extraction
Fine grind is the kind that looks like sand or even powdered sugar, depending on how fine you grind it. This type of grind is used in fast extraction methods. There, the coffee needs to be in contact with water for a short time, but under a lot of pressure.
Medium grind: the most versatile of the ground coffee types
It has a texture similar to table salt. It is commonly used in drip coffee makers (filters) and aeropresses (depending on the brewing time). This grind allows the water to flow through just enough to extract the flavors without rushing. Its intermediate particle size makes it the most versatile of all ground coffee types .
Coarse grind: suitable for slow brewing methods
Coarse grind is much coarser, almost like small bread crumbs or coarse salt. This type of grind is used in brewing methods that require the coffee to be in contact with water for a longer period of time.
Coffee makers according to the types of ground coffee
Depending on the type of grind, it is recommended to use certain types of coffee makers to improve extraction.
Types of finely ground coffee
For fine grinding, it is recommended to use this type of coffee maker:
Espresso machine
If you love a good espresso , a fine grind is your best friend. The espresso machine uses pressure to extract the coffee, and a fine grind allows the water to pass through the beans quickly, capturing the intense flavors. This type of grind ensures that the water extracts enough in just 25-30 seconds.
Moka pot (Italian)
In moka pots, hot water is forced through ground coffee. A fine grind, but not as fine as espresso , works best here, as it ensures a good flow and a balanced flavour.
Tip: Be careful, because if the grind is too fine for your machine, the water may have trouble passing through and ruin the process, giving you a bitter extraction.
Types of medium ground coffee
For medium grind use these versatile coffee makers:
Drip coffee maker
The filter or drip coffee maker (which usually has a paper filter) is the most common at home, and the medium grind is the most suitable. The water filters slowly through the coffee, so this size allows for a balanced extraction, without bitterness or lack of flavor.
Aeropress
This machine is super versatile as you can adjust it for different types of coffee. If you like a smooth, clean coffee, use a medium grind and adjust the brewing time to your liking.
Tip: A medium grind is a safe choice if you're not sure what to use. It works well in a variety of methods without compromising too much on flavor.
Types of coarsely ground coffee
For coarse grinding, these coffee makers are recommended:
French Press
A coarse grind is ideal for the French press, as this method uses a long steep (around 4 minutes) to extract flavor. A finer grind would filter through the plunger, resulting in cloudy or residue-laden coffee.
Cold brew
If cold brew is your thing , a coarse grind is perfect, as the cold brewing process can take anywhere from 12 to 24 hours. A coarser grind prevents over-extraction and results in a smooth, less acidic coffee.
Tip: Don't use coarse ground coffee types in a drip or espresso machine . The coffee won't have enough contact with the water and you'll end up with a tasteless, weak cup.
Practical recommendations
Here are some practical tips to help you get the best cup of coffee possible.
- Adjust to your preference. If you prefer a milder coffee, even if you use a drip coffee maker, you can try a slightly coarser grind. If you prefer it stronger, adjust the grind to a finer level.
- Try grinding it yourself. Don't be afraid to experiment. Buying coffee beans and grinding them at home is a great way to find your perfect grind.
- Keep it fresh. Once you grind your coffee, try to use it as soon as possible. Ground coffee loses its aromas and essential oils quickly, which can affect the final taste of your cup.
- Coffee ice. An extra tip on how to make iced coffee is to freeze some coffee in ice cubes . This way, when you prepare your drink, you can cool it down with these cubes.
Now you know the key to making your next cup unforgettable!
Choosing the right grind for your coffee maker may seem like a small detail, but it's crucial to enjoying a great cup of coffee. Each brewing method requires a specific grind size to extract the perfect flavor from the water. So, next time you're brewing a cup, remember that knowing how to choose between coffee grounds can make the difference between a decent coffee and a memorable one.
It's time to prepare a cup of coffee according to your taste and your coffee maker, so enjoy!