The Coffee Kits

The Secret to Getting the Perfect Chemex Grind Every Time

If you are a coffee lover, you have probably heard of Chemex, the iconic coffee maker that has been around since the 1940s. Chemex is known for its simple and elegant design, but what really sets it apart is the quality of coffee it produces. To get the perfect cup of coffee with Chemex, you need to pay attention to many factors, including the grind size. In this article, we will explore the secret to getting the perfect Chemex grind every time.

The Importance of Grind Size

Before we dive into the secret of getting the perfect Chemex grind, let's talk about why grind size matters. The size of the coffee grounds affects how fast the water flows through them and how much flavor is extracted. A finer grind size will slow down the flow of water, resulting in a stronger and more intense flavor. On the other hand, a coarser grind size will allow the water to flow through faster, resulting in a weaker and less flavorful cup of coffee.

The Perfect Chemex Grind

The perfect Chemex grind is medium-coarse, which means the coffee grounds should be about the size of sea salt. This grind size allows the water to flow through the coffee at a moderate pace, which results in a balanced and flavorful cup of coffee. If the grind is too fine, the coffee will be too strong and bitter, and if it's too coarse, the coffee will be weak and watery.

How to Grind Coffee for Chemex

Now that you know the importance of grind size and what the perfect Chemex grind looks like, let's talk about how to grind coffee for Chemex. The best way to ensure consistency and accuracy is to use a burr grinder. A burr grinder grinds the coffee beans between two abrasive surfaces, resulting in a uniform and consistent grind size. Blade grinders, on the other hand, chop the coffee beans unevenly, resulting in a mix of fine and coarse grounds.

When grinding coffee for Chemex, set your burr grinder to medium-coarse, or about halfway between medium and coarse. If you don't have a burr grinder, you can use a manual hand grinder or even a mortar and pestle to achieve the same grind size.

Conclusion

Getting the perfect Chemex grind is the secret to a great cup of coffee. Remember to aim for a medium-coarse grind size, and use a burr grinder for consistency. With the right grind size and a little practice, you can enjoy a delicious and balanced cup of coffee every time you brew with Chemex.