The Fundamentals Of Coffee Brewing
The Key Elements to Brewing Great-Tasting Coffee
We've all started somewhere—maybe with an automatic coffee maker and pre-ground coffee. But as the specialty coffee movement grew, so did our understanding of how to make great coffee. With the right techniques, you can elevate your daily coffee ritual to a whole new level. Here are the essential factors for brewing perfect coffee every time:
Grind Size Grind size is critical for brewing a great cup of coffee. A grind that's too coarse results in weak coffee, while one that's too fine can make it bitter. The right grind for automatic drip coffee is somewhere between espresso and French press grind sizes.
Coffee-to-Water Ratio Finding the right balance between coffee and water is key. Too much coffee makes the brew overpowering, while too little results in a weak cup. For an 8-cup Bonavita brewer, start with 70 grams of coffee for optimal taste, then adjust as needed.
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Water Quality Filtered water can make a significant difference in the taste of your coffee. If your tap water isn't the best, consider using a water filter or pitcher to improve the flavor.
Brew Temperature The ideal temperature for brewing coffee is between 195°F – 205°F. While many automatic drip coffee makers don't allow you to control this, you can look for machines certified by the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) that meet these temperature standards.
Clean Equipment Regular cleaning ensures your coffee maker brews the best coffee possible. Neglecting maintenance can lead to poor-tasting coffee and equipment malfunctions when you least expect it.
Final Thoughts Once you've tasted the best coffee, you won't want to go back to the mediocre stuff. With the right grind, ratio, water quality, temperature, and equipment maintenance, you can brew coffee that’s both flavorful and satisfying.
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