Delicious coffee. Invigorating, aromatic, with a delightful aftertaste it is enjoyed in every corner of the world, each culture preparing it in its unique way.
Delicious coffee, what Determines the Taste?
Some argue that it all comes down to the grind size, while others believe that roasting is the key factor.
Yet, even those who brew coffee daily are often surprised by its ever-changing taste.
Even when using the same coffee machine and following every rule and recommendation, achieving an identical espresso each time seems nearly impossible.
To unravel this mystery, scientists turned to a mathematical model initially designed to study the movement of charged particles in lithium-ion batteries.
Eventually, they succeeded in achieving espresso reproducibility meaning they could produce multiple cups with identical taste qualities. This was made possible by maintaining a crucial parameter: the grind size.
If you aim to brew the perfect espresso, opt for a grind size ranging from 17% to 23%. A coarser grind disrupts the balance and lowers quality, while a finer grind enhances sweetness.
Quantity Does Not Equal Quality.
If you think that using more coffee will result in a richer taste, you might be disappointed.
Overloading the filter basket leads to uneven extraction, preventing the coffee grounds from fully releasing their aromatic compounds.
Experts warn that more is not necessarily better.
Try reducing your usual amount by a quarter. Not only does this make economic sense, but it also ensures that the flavor remains intact—especially when using high-quality water.
Water: The Foundation of Good Coffee.
You meticulously control brewing techniques, roasting styles, and grind size—yet your coffee still lacks the magic of a barista-made cup? The culprit might be the water.
Surprised? Don’t be!
Water is responsible for extracting the aromatic oils that define the taste, aroma, and texture of coffee.
Professionals agree that the ideal coffee is brewed with water that is colorless, odorless, and free from impurities. In particular, chlorine must be avoided, as it imparts an unpleasant bitterness.
For those eager to perfect their brewing technique, water quality is crucial. The best coffee comes from water with low mineralization—between 75 and 175 mg/L.
Regular tap water typically doesn’t meet this standard.
It is either too hard (high in minerals) or too soft. Boiling tap water won’t change its chemical composition, and while a home water filter can remove chlorine and prevent bitterness, it won’t necessarily optimize the water for coffee brewing.
Coffee as Medicine?
While coffee lovers indulge in their favorite beverage, scientists continue to debate its health effects.
They examine the impact of antioxidants, polyphenols, and phenylindanes, but the discussion often centers on purine alkaloids—specifically, caffeine.
The health benefits or drawbacks of coffee largely depend on its caffeine concentration.
What influences caffeine content? Primarily, the brewing method. Alongside the classic preparation, cold brew coffee—made by steeping coffee grounds in ice-cold water for 8 to 24 hours—is gaining popularity.
According to a study published in Scientific Reports, cold brewing increases caffeine concentration.
Additionally, roast level plays a role. Dark-roasted beans release about 1,000 mg of caffeine per liter, whereas medium-roasted beans contain up to 1,200 mg per liter.
Fresh Doesn’t Always Mean Better.
Ultimately, the best coffee isn’t necessarily the freshest brew—it’s the one that meets your preferences and enhances your well-being. But if we’re talking freshness, coffee bean freshness is what truly matters.
Research published in the Journal of Food Quality confirms that over time, coffee beans lose volatile compounds, negatively affecting their flavor and aroma. Experts advise against brewing coffee with beans roasted more than a month ago.
However, even freshly roasted beans won’t instantly produce the perfect cup. Roasting removes moisture, breaks down acids and sugars, and triggers caramelization.
It takes time for the degassing process to complete. The peak flavor is reached on the seventh day after roasting. This is when coffee delivers the most enjoyable and unforgettable experience.
Though, why call it unforgettable? Scientists have proven that it is possible to brew coffee with consistent taste and quality every time.
By following specific guidelines—controlling grind size and roast level and using high-quality water—you can create coffee at home that rivals the best cafés, bringing joy to yourself and those around you.
Have a Great Day!
