How fine should you grind coffee?

When it comes to brewing the perfect cup of coffee, many factors play a crucial role – one often overlooked, but essential, aspect is the grind size of your coffee beans so, how fine should you grind your coffee?

Let’s dive into the world of coffee grinds and discover the ideal grind size for your favourite brew.

The Importance of Grind Size

Coffee grinds are not just about aesthetics, they profoundly affect the flavour and aroma of your coffee. The grind size determines how quickly water extracts flavors from the coffee grounds during brewing. It also influences the brewing time, extraction rate, and even the texture of your final cup. To achieve the best results, you need to choose the right grind size for your preferred brewing method.

How fine should you grind coffee? Different Brewing Methods = Different Grind Sizes

Coarse Grind (French Press)

When brewing with a French press, a coarse grind is the way to go. The grounds should be similar in size to breadcrumbs. A coarse grind allows for a slower extraction, resulting in a robust and full-bodied coffee. It also helps to prevent over-extraction, which can lead to a bitter taste in your brew.

Medium Coarse Grind (Drip Coffee Maker)

For drip coffee makers, a medium grind works best. Think of the consistency of sand. This grind size balances the extraction time, producing a smooth and well-rounded cup of coffee. It’s the go-to choice for many everyday coffee drinkers. If you are not buying whole beans and grinding at home, we recommend Mhor Coffee’s Coarse Grind option for drip coffee makers.

Fine Grind (Espresso)

If you’re an espresso lover, a fine grind is your best friend. Espresso machines require finely ground coffee to ensure proper extraction in just 25-30 seconds. The result is a concentrated shot of coffee with a rich crema and bold flavor.

Extra Fine Grind (Turkish Coffee)

For those who enjoy the traditional Turkish coffee, an extra fine grind is essential. It should resemble powdered sugar. This grind size allows for a quick extraction and creates a thick, sludgy coffee with a unique flavor profile. If you are not buying whole beans and grinding at home, we recommend Mhor Coffee’s Fine Grind option for Turkish coffee makers.

Variable Grind (Aeropress)

The Aeropress is a versatile brewing method that can accommodate a wide range of grind sizes, from medium-fine to fine. Experimenting with different grind sizes can help you find the flavour profile that suits your preferences best. If you are not buying whole beans and grinding at home, we recommend Mhor Coffee’s Fine Grind option for Aeropress coffee makers.

The Role of Freshness

Another factor to consider is the freshness of your coffee beans. Coffee begins to lose its flavor and aroma shortly after being ground, so it’s best to grind your beans just before brewing. Investing in a good quality grinder, whether manual or electric, is a wise choice for any coffee enthusiast.

How fine should you grind coffee? Experimentation is Key

Ultimately, the ideal grind size for your coffee comes down to your personal taste preferences. Coffee is a deeply subjective experience, and what tastes great to one person might not appeal to another. The best way to find your perfect grind size is through experimentation. Try different grind sizes with your favourite beans and brewing methods to discover the flavours and aromas that suit your palate.

Which Grind is right for me?

If you’re still not sure which grind will be right for you – here’s our really easy guide to selecting the right grind for your coffee maker.

If, like us, you have a variety of coffee makers, you might need more than one grind. If your maker is not got a specific grind for it, go to the next nearest down the scale (e.g for Aeropress in Mhor Coffee, we go for the Fine Grind).