Brew Like a Pro: Common Coffee Brewing Mistakes and How to Fix Them
Want to brew the perfect cup of coffee at home? We’ve all made some common mistakes along the way, but no worries! At Preppy Palate, we’re here to help you fix them and elevate your coffee game.
Here are the top brewing blunders and how to avoid them:
Using Old Coffee Beans
Mistake: Old beans = flat coffee. Fresh beans lose their flavor quickly after roasting.
Fix: Buy fresh beans and grind them just before brewing. Use them within two weeks of roasting for the best taste.
Grinding Beans Too Coarse or Too Fine
Mistake: The wrong grind size can make your coffee too weak or too bitter.
Fix: Adjust grind size based on your brewing method: medium for drip, coarser for French press, and fine for espresso.
Incorrect Water Temperature
Mistake: Water that’s too hot or too cold can ruin your coffee’s taste.
Fix: Heat your water between 195°F and 205°F. Let it cool for 30 seconds after boiling if you don’t have a thermometer.
Not Using Enough Coffee
Mistake: Skimping on coffee results in a watery, weak brew.
Fix: Stick to a 1:2 tablespoon-to-water ratio (1-2 tbsp coffee for 6 oz water), then adjust based on your taste.
Brewing Too Long (or Not Long Enough)
Mistake: Brewing for too short or too long makes coffee either weak or bitter.
Fix: Follow the recommended brewing times: 4-6 minutes for drip, 4 minutes for French press, and 25-30 seconds for espresso.
By avoiding these simple mistakes, you’ll brew a perfect cup every time! Happy brewing!