Coffeeclues

Coffee grinding is the most vital step in determining final brew characteristics. Grinding of beans upto the optimal size is very important. This article gives information about the different grinders, grind characteristics and simple tips to be followed during grinding.

Grind Characteristics
Coarse: Here the coffee particles are distinct and almost like kosher salt.
Medium: Particles appear like coarse sand.
Fine: It is smooth to touch and finer than table salt.
Extra fine: Particles are finer than sugar.
Turkish: It is powdered and almost like flour.

Different Types of Grinders
Burr Grinding: In this procedure conical grinding elements or wheels are used to crush beans using frictional heat. Process of crushing ensures the release of oils from beans, which are extracted through hot water. Burr grinders are of two types conical burr grinders and disk type grinders.

Conical burr grinders: In these grinders, steel burrs are used to grind effectively. They rotate at a very low speed and help to preserve maximum aroma. These grinders clog less.

Disk Type Grinders: They rotate faster and are cheap. It is best suitable for home use and small amounts of coffee is grounded in it.

Roller Grinding: In this process beans are grounded between corrugated rollers. Use of rollers ensures even grind size and heat produced in this method is less.

Chopping: It is done by use of blades rotating at a very high speed. Device is long lasting and cheap, but grinding produces particles of different sizes.

Tips

• As soon as the coffee beans are ground the oils in it are exposed to air. Exposure of these oils causes their deterioration and loss of flavor.
• Different brewing methods require different grind characteristics.
• Some important factors have to be taken into consideration while choosing a grinder. Safety, noise and ease of cleaning are some of the most important factors.