Now he’s thinkin’ 'bout me every night, oh Is it that sweet? I guess so.
Say you can’t sleep, baby, I know That’s me espresso.
You might have heard these famous lyrics once in a lifetime, and honestly, they make you crave the perfect brew. But getting that ideal cup requires more than just a right machine and quality beans. While they play vital roles, one often overlooked element is the right coffee grinder. So, if you’re on the lookout for the perfect one, we’re here to help.
Here’s a quick guide on how to choose the right coffee grind machine for your café.
Why Buy a Coffee Grinder?
That bag of pre-ground coffee lost its freshness long before you picked it up. Once coffee is ground, it starts to release its aromas right away, and you’ll definitely notice the difference in your cup. A drink made with coffee ground just fifteen minutes ago won’t have the same flavours and aromas as good, freshly ground beans. If you’re investing in speciality coffee, you want it to shine at its best.
Grind Size and Granularity: What’s the Difference?
When you’re ready to brew some delicious coffee, the first step is to grind your beans. This coffee powder, known as “grind,” can range from fine to coarse. Granularity is all about measuring that grind size, which is crucial for making the perfect cup.
But why does this matter for your café, you may ask? Well, the grind size directly affects the flavor and extraction of the coffee. A finer grind works well for espresso, while a coarser grind is better for methods like French press.
Why Adjust the Grind Size According to Your Brewing Method?
Every brewing method has its quirks. For instance, if you’re using a bean-to-cup machine, the flavor profile will differ from what you’d get with a Chemex. If your grind is too coarse, you might end up with a weak cup, and nobody wants that! If it’s too fine, you could get bitterness. So, play around with it! Adjusting the grind based on your brewing method can impact the flavor.
What Grind Size for a Bean-to-Cup Coffee Machine?
Did you know that your bean-to-cup machine lets you adjust the grind size? The adjustment dial is usually found in the bean hopper. For espresso brewing, you’ll want a grind that’s relatively fine, similar to flour.
If your espresso is too intense or bitter, it’s time to adjust the granularity. A coarser grind exposes less surface area to water, leading to smoother extraction. On the other hand, if it tastes too light or acidic, try a finer grind to boost the flavor intensity.
Think about your taste preferences, the roast color of your beans, and the types of drinks you’re making. If you’re aiming for an aromatic, syrupy cup, go for a finer grind. For a lighter, clearer, and more acidic result, try coarsening your grind.
Remember, a ristretto calls for a fine grind, while a medium grind is perfect for an Americano. A medium to fine grind works wonders for espresso.
Lastly, keep in mind that the size of the coffee bean can vary based on its origin. Generally, the darker the roast, the coarser you’ll want your grind to be. There aren’t any universal rules, so don’t hesitate to experiment until you find the grind size that suits your taste! After making adjustments, see the results after a few espressos.
Which Grinder to Choose for Grinding Your Coffee?
When you’re choosing a coffee grinder, it’s all about finding one that’s precise and flexible. A good grinder will let you adjust the grind size to fit your brewing method. And remember, maintenance is important too! Look for a grinder that can handle everything from fine to coarse grinds, so you can make anything from espresso to pour-over.
Also, think about how easy it is to clean and how durable it is. A grinder that’s easy to take apart will encourage you to clean it regularly, which keeps old coffee grounds from messing with your flavor. Choose one made from quality materials, so it lasts through all those busy café days.
What Will It Cost You?
Lastly, let’s discuss what will it cost you. When it comes to commercial equipment, coffee grind machines can be a bit on the pricey side. They require food and utility safety certifications, which adds to the overall cost. Plus, most of these units are made in Europe, primarily in Italy. In the UAE, you can expect to pay anywhere from AED 1,800 to AED 14,700! For a standard commercial coffee machine, you’re typically looking at around AED 3,700 to AED 5,500.
