Coffee grinding: the secret to a balanced taste in your cup
For many of us, a good cup of coffee is more than just a drink: it's a ritual, a sensory experience, and sometimes the perfect start to our day. But to get that ideal coffee, there's one crucial detail that can go unnoticed: the coffee grind .
Why is coffee grinding so important?
Each coffee bean has a unique combination of oils, flavors and aromas inside. During the coffee grinding process , the seed (which is the “seed” or fruit of the coffee plant ) is broken. This allows its interior to be exposed and makes it possible for the essential components of the coffee to be extracted when it comes into contact with water.
The reason why this step is crucial is because improper grinding can ruin the flavor and aroma profile of the coffee, even if the quality of the bean is excellent. If the grind is improper, several problems can occur that affect the final taste.
Grinding too coarsely can result in under-extraction: without enough surface area exposed, the water cannot dissolve the right amount of aromatic and flavour compounds. This results in a “flat”, watery or characterless coffee. It is usually associated with flavours such as salty or sour (Gothong, 2021).
On the other hand, grinding too finely tends to over-extract the bean, as the surface area is too large and the extraction is done too quickly. In this case, certain compounds are released that generate a cup with a bitter and intense taste. It is also associated with a dry or empty sensation of the coffee (Bordiniuc, 2024).
From seed to mill: the coffee process
To fully understand the importance of coffee grinding , you first need to know the previous steps. It all starts at the coffee plantation . In this first stage, the coffee trees grow. To do this, it is necessary that the environment offers high humidity and the climate has a moderate temperature (Santos, 2024). Each coffee region obtains its own “signature” of flavor. Factors such as soil, altitude and climate influence the result.
Once the coffee cherries are ripe, the coffee harvest must be done . At this point, the best beans are chosen. After this, the green bean ( coffee seed ) goes through the roasting process. Coffee roasting is a stage that transforms the raw bean into that brown color that we all know. This produces the aromas and flavor nuances that we later want to extract in each cup.
Finally, we come to grinding coffee . This is the last step before brewing, and although it may seem simple, it is one of the most delicate. The goal is to achieve a uniform texture for the beans.
Types of coffee grind
Not all grinds are created equal. There is no one grind that is better than another. In fact, each coffee brewing method requires a specific coarseness to ensure the best tasting coffee possible.
Below we explain the most common types of grinding and the methods for which they work best:
- Coarse grind: This coffee grind produces large particles and is perfect for slow extraction methods. For example, the French press. In this preparation, the coffee and water remain in contact for several minutes, allowing a gradual extraction of flavors without over-extracting the oils from the bean, which prevents bitterness.
- Medium grind: Similar to the texture of table salt, the medium coffee grind is versatile and works well for drip coffee makers. This allows for a balanced extraction, ideal for those looking for a full-bodied coffee with a smooth, pleasant taste. It's perfect for drinking in the mornings.
- Fine grind: Similar in texture to granulated sugar, this grind is ideal for drip coffee makers and home espresso machines. Due to its size, it allows the water to pass through the coffee more quickly.
- Extra fine grind: This coffee grind is as fine as flour and is preferred for Turkish coffee, where the coffee is boiled directly in water without filtering. Its fine texture allows it to be mixed more homogeneously.
Why is it good to experiment with coffee grinding ?
Finding the perfect grind can be a journey full of discovery. The best way to start is by trying different grind sizes with the brewing method you use most often.
Of course, if you buy pre-ground coffee, it already comes with a standard grind. However, if you have a blade grinder or a burr grinder, you can experiment with different speed and strength levels. This way, you will achieve the kind of flavor you want. Here are some tips to keep in mind when grinding coffee :
- Adjust based on brewing time. If the coffee is too bitter, try a coarser grind. If, on the other hand, the coffee is too weak, try a finer grind.
- It varies with the amount of water. Another important detail is that finer grinds require less contact time with water. On the other hand, coarser grinds can withstand longer periods. If you use a French press, for example, a coarse grind is ideal because it is left in contact with water for more than 4 minutes.
- Try different beans. Not all coffee beans react the same way to grinding. Coffees from different regions can reveal different details. That's why it's best to try several types to find out which bean and grind best suits your taste.
Next time you brew a cup of coffee, remember that grinding isn’t just another step. It’s the secret behind every aroma and every nuance of flavor. By adjusting the grind size to your brewing method, you’re giving the bean a chance to shine and show its best side. So experiment, play with different textures, and discover the version that brings out your favorite flavor.