Selecting the right beans is only part of the equation for the perfect cup of coffee. Managing the grind size is equally important.
In case you didn’t know, each brewing method requires a different coffee grind size to produce optimal flavor.
Several types of coffee grind sizes are available, ranging from extra coarse to finest grinds. Each has its role in determining the final result of the ground coffee served.
By understanding the differences between each grind size, you can find the perfect combination to create the flavorful coffee you want.
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Types of Coffee Grind Size
Here are some types of coffee grind sizes with unique functions: from extra coarse to the finest.
1. Extra Coarse
First is the extra coarse grind size. The particles are the largest, resembling coarse salt. This grind size is ideal for cold brew or cowboy-style coffee brewing.
Each of them has a slower extraction process. This is perfect for a smooth, less acidic coffee flavor.
2. Coarse
Next up is the regular coarse grind type, perfect for the French Press brewing method. Its particles are smaller than the previous type, and its texture resembles sea salt.
Using coffee of this size allows the extraction process to take place perfectly-even in just 4-5 minutes of brewing.
3. Medium
Next is the medium grind size that resembles granulated sugar. This size of coffee grind comes as the ideal choice for several brewing methods: V60, Chemex, and AeroPress.
The types of coffee grind sizes provide a balanced extraction that is rich in flavor and neutral in acidity.
4. Fine
Next up is a coffee grind size that resembles table salt in texture. This size is perfect for supporting espresso or mocha pot brewing methods.
With a finer grind, the coffee extraction process happens quickly because of the larger surface area, resulting in a rich and intense flavor profile.
5. Extra Fine
Last but not least is the extra fine coffee grind size. The texture resembles flour or fine powder, perfect for Turkish Coffee or Ibrik brewing methods.
This method only allows for a short combination of water and coffee, but the flavor should be extracted to the maximum!
Also read: Whole Bean Coffee vs Ground Coffee: Which is Better?
How Does The Types of Grind Size Affect the Coffee Taste?
Besides impacting brewing time, the size of the coffee grind also influences the intensity of the flavor in each sip. These flavor changes are driven by two main factors.
1. Coffee Ground Surface Area
The smaller the grind size, the more surface area successfully extracted with hot water. This makes the flavor more intense due to the more significant amount of water-soluble coffee compounds.
For example, coffee with a fine grind size tastes much more intense than coffee with a coarse grind!
2. Coffee Ground Resistance
The grind size also influences the resistance of water flowing through coffee grounds. Fine-grained coffee tends to have a high resistance and is suitable for processing into espresso.
Meanwhile, coarsely ground coffee increases the speed at which water flows, greatly supporting coffee serving methods such as French Press.
Also read: Exploring The Uniqueness of Coffee Production in Indonesia
Blade vs. Burr Coffee Grinders
You should also know that there are two main types of coffee grinders. These are called blade and burr grinders.
1. Blade Grinder
This type of grinder comes with a sharp blade, effective for cutting coffee beans into smaller pieces.
Although more affordable and easy to use, the grind size can be inconsistent because you can’t control the fineness or coarseness of the grind.
2. Burr Grinder
The second type is the burr grinder, a coffee grinder with two rotating plates that grind coffee evenly.
This tool can adjust the grind size to suit your coffee brewing needs, ensuring the coffee powder is consistent for optimal extraction.
Tips on How to Adjust Coffee Grind Size
To get the best coffee brewing results, follow these tips on adjusting coffee grind size!
- Recognize the Brewing Method: Each coffee brewing method is only compatible with a specific coffee grind size. For example, French Press coffee is better suited to coarse-ground coffee than fine coffee.
- Start with Standard Size: If you’re a beginner coffee lover, it’s best to start brewing ground coffee in a medium-grained size. This serves as a starting point before being able to customize it to your taste.
- Experiment: Experiment to see which grind size is best for your brewing time and desired result.
How to Grind Coffee at Home
Did you know? Grinding your beans at home gives you complete control over the quality of your brewed coffee. Follow these few simple steps!
1. Choose Quality Coffee Beans
Make sure to use only fresh, quality coffee beans. That way, you can produce the best ground coffee.
2. Use the Right Grinder
Choose to use the correct type of grinder-whether a blade grinder for an economical option or a burr grinder for more consistent ground coffee results!
3. Set the Grind Size
Set the required coffee grind size according to your coffee brewing method. For more precision, always check the instructions on how to use the tool.
4. Grind as Required
Grind the amount of coffee beans you need. This is very important so that you can consistently produce fresh ground coffee every time you consume it!
Also read: 8 Types of Coffee Beans in Indonesia, Unique & You Must Try!
Make the Perfect Cup of Coffee with the Right Grind Size!
Understanding the various coffee grind sizes reveals their crucial role in achieving the perfect cup of coffee.
From extra coarse grind for cold brew to extra fine grind for Turkish Coffee, choose the right size to enhance your coffee-drinking experience.
Make your daily routine feel special with quality coffee from Indonesia. Visit FnB Coffee to get the best varieties of Indonesian coffee, from Arabica, Robusta, and specialty coffee.
If you are still confused about which coffee beans to choose, visit some of our best-seller products or ask our staff for help. What are you waiting for? Visit our website and enjoy a cup of premium quality coffee today!