Use Freshly Ground Coffee Beans
Coffee beans begin to lose flavor and aroma soon after they’re roasted. For the best-tasting coffee, grind your beans right before brewing. Invest in a simple grinder or use the grinder available at many grocery stores. The difference in flavor will amaze you!
Store Coffee Beans Properly
Once coffee beans are ground, the surface area exposed to oxygen dramatically increases, causing the flavorful oils to go stale much quicker. Store whole beans in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to preserve freshness and flavor.
Experiment with Water Temperature
The Specialty Coffee Association recommends brewing coffee with water between 195°F and 205°F. Boiling water often leads to bitter, unpleasant flavors. Try adjusting your water heater or using water 30 seconds off the boil for better flavor.
Use Filtered Water
Hard tap water can lend unsavory mineral flavors. Filtered water or bottled spring water makes coffee taste cleaner and fresher.
FAQ
What type of grinder should I use for coffee?
A burr grinder that uniformly crushes beans is best, avoiding uneven particles from blade grinders. Choose a grinder suited for home use with grind size adjustability.
How fine or coarse should I grind coffee beans?
Use medium-fine grounds for drip coffee makers. Too fine, and water has difficulty flowing through. Too coarse, and water passes through too quickly, underextracting flavor.
Should I store coffee beans in the refrigerator?
No, the moisture and odors of the fridge can ruin beans. Store whole beans at cool room temperature in an airtight container.
What temperature should I brew coffee?
The SCA recommends water between 195°F and 205°F for optimal extraction. Boiling water often overextracts bitterness.
How often should I change my water filter?
Replace water filters every 2-3 months on average. Check manufacturer suggestions, as filter life depends on water usage and contaminants removed.
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