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The importance of timing when grinding coffee beans

As more and more people enjoy coffee at home, did you know that paying attention to the timing of grinding the beans can make a big difference in the aroma and taste?
In this article, we'll explain why timing your grinding is important and introduce tips for brewing delicious coffee in a way that suits your lifestyle.
Why is freshly ground coffee so delicious?
The aroma and flavor of coffee are created by various compounds contained in the beans. These aromatic compounds are very delicate and are easily lost when exposed to air .
When beans are ground, they immediately come into contact with oxygen, causing the aroma to evaporate and oxidize. Therefore, if they are left in powder form for a long time, the rich aroma will weaken.
Freshly ground beans have a soft aroma and a rich, deep flavor. The power of "freshly ground" is what makes coffee brewed in a shop feel so special.
Why storing whole beans helps them last longer
Coffee beans begin to deteriorate gradually after roasting, but the rate of deterioration is slow if they remain whole . Because the surface area is small, there is little contact with air, so the aroma and flavor are preserved for a relatively long time.
Therefore, to enjoy delicious coffee, it is best to grind only the amount you need right before drinking. This way, you can retain the aroma and fully enjoy the original flavor of the beans.
Recommended grinding times based on lifestyle
However, many people find it difficult to grind beans every time they are busy. Below we will introduce the recommended "time to grind" depending on your lifestyle.
Lifestyle |
Grinding timing |
point |
People who make coffee every day |
Just before drinking |
This is the best way to enjoy the aroma. An electric mill is convenient. |
People who only drink slowly on weekends |
Grind just one or two batches before the weekend |
By grinding in small amounts, you can achieve both freshness and convenience. |
People who don't have time on weekdays |
Grind and store for 2-3 days |
If you store it in an airtight container, it will retain some of its aroma. |
Be creative with your powder storage methods
If you absolutely must store ground flour in bulk, be careful about how you store it to preserve the flavor as much as possible.
- Place in a sealable container
- Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight
- Avoid storing in the refrigerator (as it is prone to absorbing moisture and the smell of other foods)
- If possible, use it within two weeks
Just by being aware of these things, you can maintain the flavor even in powder form.
The taste changes depending on how you grind it (grain size)
The taste of coffee also changes depending on how finely it is ground (particle size). It is important to choose the grinding method according to the extraction time and method.
-
Coarse grind : Suitable for methods with long extraction times, such as French press
-
Medium grind : Ideal for paper drip coffee. Standard grind.
-
Medium-fine grind : Recommended for siphon and cloth drip coffee makers.
-
Fine grind/extra fine grind : For quick extraction such as espresso
The finer the powder, the more bitter and rich the flavor will be, while the coarser the powder, the lighter the flavor will be. Please adjust the powder to suit your home equipment.
What kind of grinder is best for grinding at home?
To enjoy freshly ground coffee at home, it's convenient to have a coffee mill (grinder). We'll introduce two common types.
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Propeller type (blade type)
Although it is easy to use, the size of the powder can easily vary, which can result in an inconsistent taste.
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Mill type (conical/flat type)
The grain size is uniform and the flavor is consistent. Recommended for those who are particular about quality. Available in electric and manual types.
Choose one based on price, convenience, and your preferences.
Summary: The quality of coffee changes depending on when you grind it.
The timing of grinding coffee beans has a significant impact on the aroma and flavor.
The best tasting coffee is one that's ground just before you drink it. The aroma and flavor of freshly ground coffee creates a special moment that soothes the soul. However, depending on your lifestyle, you may need to grind coffee in bulk. If you know how to store and grind coffee, you can enjoy a delicious cup of coffee even in your busy daily life.
Make your daily coffee more delicious and richer. Be sure to pay attention to the timing of grinding.