If you think that you are randomly following the same steps when making your morning cup of coffee, yet it still turns out differently every time, then you’re wrong.
You are probably doing something different that might make your coffee taste bitter or stale. Some differences might seem minor, yet they can make or break your coffee. The culprits for a bitter coffee are normally time, temperature, coffee quality, ratio, grind, and cleanliness. Any small change in any one of these factors might drastically change how your coffee tastes and even affect the smell. Here are 6 reasons why your coffee tastes different every time you make it.
1. Temperature
If you change methods between using cold water and boiling water, then, of course, your coffee will taste different every time you make the switch. Many people are under the wrong impression that water needs to be boiling hot before it gets used in brewing. The truth is, 212-degree Fahrenheit (or 100 degrees Celsius) is too high for brewing coffee. Using hot water is another reason why your coffee might taste different. While making coffee, it’s best to boil water for only 30 seconds or just use room temperature water.
2. Time
Time is a crucial element when it comes to making a good cup of coffee. Leave your coffee for too long, and you risk overdoing it and end up with a bitter cup. On the other hand, not leaving your coffee too steep for long enough in water will also result in a tasteless cup of coffee. Mastering the art of knowing how long to leave your coffee for exactly, you must consider that the perfect amount of time differs from one brewing method to another. When it comes to brewing guides, make sure that you refer to one that thoroughly explains how to brew the perfect cup of coffee and the right time for each method. For example, cold brews require at least 12 hours of contact time, while you can make a cup of espresso in less than 30 seconds.
3. Quality is Everything
If you are using different kinds of coffee, then it will definitely taste different. It’s a sad fact, but we must accept that not all coffee is created equal. If you opt for cheap coffee, thinking that it doesn’t make a difference, you will always end up with over-roasted beans. Usually, cheap coffee is over-roasted to cover up its imperfections. If you feel like your coffee tastes like ash, then you might want to change the beans and blend you usually opt for.
4. Get the Ratio Right
It makes perfect sense that you won’t get the measurements perfectly right every time you make your cup of coffee. It is also extremely tempting to use too much coffee for a stronger taste or a quicker hit of caffeine. The taste might get stronger, but it will also definitely become more bitter. Make sure not to use too much coffee relative to the amount of water you are using for your brew to avoid ending up with a bitter cup. If you are not sure how much coffee to use, then it’s better to always stick to your machine’s manual.
5. The Difference in Coffee Grounds
Your coffee might taste different due to differences in the grind. Refrain from grinding your coffee too finely, otherwise, you are risking over-extracting and exposing your coffee. If you want your coffee to taste the same without any added bitterness, it’s essential that you use the correct grinding level. Fortunately, there isn’t any scarcity nowadays when it comes to available information sources for how exactly you should grind beans.
6. Dirty Brewing Equipment
If you have checked all the culprits mentioned above off your list, then the reason behind your weird-tasting coffee might be dirty brewing equipment. It is surprising how quickly leftovers from earlier brews can add up and compromise the cleanliness of your equipment. After brewing your coffee, make it a habit to clean your gear immediately after you are done; you will prevent your coffee from having a bitter or stale taste.
There are many reasons why your coffee might be tasting different. To avoid stale, bitter, or weak brews, you must consider the factors above. Make sure to get the right timing, the accurate level of grind, the exact ratio between the amount of water and coffee, and high-quality beans. These factors will help you in starting your day with the perfect cup of coffee.
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