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Brewing Coffee 101: The Art of Balancing Water, Grind, and Temperature

Writer's picture: Job Post Central StaffJob Post Central Staff

Updated: Dec 19, 2024


A red disposable coffee cup labeled "Feel Fresh NASCAFE" sits on a tiled surface against a blurred gray background.

The Role of Water: Quality and Ratio

Water is the primary component of coffee, making up 98% of your cup, so its quality and quantity matter.





Key Factors:

  1. Water Quality: Use filtered water to eliminate chlorine or minerals that can alter the flavor. Avoid distilled water as it lacks minerals essential for extraction.

  2. Water-to-Coffee Ratio: The Golden Ratio is 1 gram of coffee to 15–17 grams of water.

    • For a stronger cup: Use a 1:12 ratio.

    • For a lighter cup: Opt for a 1:17 ratio.

Accurate measurement ensures balanced extraction and flavor consistency. A digital scale is a game-changer for precise results.


Mastering Grind Size for Extraction

The grind size determines how water interacts with coffee grounds, impacting extraction time and flavor.


Matching Grind Size to Brewing Method:

  • Coarse Grind: French Press, Cold Brew

  • Medium Grind: Drip Coffee, Pour-Over (Chemex, V60)

  • Fine Grind: Espresso, AeroPress

Why It Matters:

  • Too Fine: Leads to over-extraction (bitter taste).

  • Too Coarse: Causes under-extraction (sour, weak flavors).

A burr grinder is recommended for consistency, as it produces a uniform grind compared to blade grinders.


Ideal Brewing Temperature

Water temperature affects how efficiently flavor compounds are extracted from coffee grounds.


The Optimal Range:

  • 195°F to 205°F (90°C to 96°C)

  • If the water is too hot: Over-extraction creates bitterness.

  • If the water is too cool: Under-extraction produces weak, sour coffee.

Pro Tip: Bring water to a boil and let it sit for 30 seconds before pouring. Use a thermometer for precision, especially for methods like pour-over.



A white coffee mug filled with black coffee sits on a weathered tree stump, surrounded by a blurred, natural forest background.

Balancing Time and Brew Methods

Brewing time plays a crucial role in balancing extraction:

  • French Press: 4 minutes

  • Pour-Over: 3–4 minutes

  • Espresso: 25–30 seconds

  • Cold Brew: 12–24 hours

Adjusting brew time alongside water temperature and grind size ensures the perfect extraction for your preferred flavor.


Finding Your Perfect Balance

The art of brewing coffee lies in achieving harmony between water quality, grind size, and temperature:

  1. Start with fresh, filtered water.

  2. Match grind size to your brewing method.

  3. Control the water temperature for optimal extraction.

  4. Experiment with brew times to fine-tune the flavor.

Final Thoughts

Balancing water, grind, and temperature is the foundation of great coffee. By mastering these variables, you’ll unlock rich, flavorful, and perfectly extracted coffee every time. Practice, experiment, and enjoy the journey to coffee perfection!


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