This area provides simple, foundational knowledge and introductory guides for those new to specialty coffee.
Stepping up to the espresso bar can feel like learning a new language. Two drinks that often cause confusion are the Cortado and the Macchiato. They’re both small, espresso-based, and involve milk; but that’s where the similarities end.
Choosing between them depends entirely on how much milk you like and how forward you want that espresso flavor to be. Don’t worry, the difference is actually quite simple once you break it down.
(more…)
Stepping into a specialty coffee shop or even just browse the coffee aisle online can feel like navigating a complex map without a guide. So many origins, roast levels, blends… where do you even start? Believe me, I’ve been there! Over years of brewing countless cups, tasting beans from around the globe, and talking endlessly about coffee, I’ve developed a practical approach to decoding those bags and finding the gems that make truly exceptional coffee.
In this guide, I want to share my personal compass – the key things I always consider – to help you confidently choose beans you’ll absolutely love, saving you time and potentially some less-than-stellar cups along the way.
(more…)
Tired of mediocre coffee from your automatic drip machine? Craving a cup that truly highlights the unique nuances of your favorite beans? Welcome to the world of pour over coffee! This manual brewing method might look intricate, but it’s your key to unlocking unparalleled flavor clarity and control. Consider this your essential guide to mastering the art and science of pour over coffee right in your own kitchen.
(more…)
So, you took the leap! You ditched that noisy blade grinder and got yourself a proper burr grinder (high five!). You’re grinding fresh beans right before you brew… but maybe your coffee still tastes a bit… off? Sometimes bitter, sometimes sour, never quite perfect?
Don’t worry, you haven’t wasted your money! There’s one more crucial piece to the perfect-cup puzzle: the size of your coffee grounds. Getting this right is just as important as grinding fresh!
Using the wrong grind size for your coffee maker is a super common mistake, and it’s often the secret culprit behind a bad brew. But luckily, it’s easy to fix! This simple cheat sheet will explain why size matters and give you a starting point for matching your grind to your brewer.
(more…)
Coffee culture is rich with traditions and beliefs, but not all of them hold water (pun intended!). From caffeine jitters to storage secrets, some common coffee “facts” are actually myths that can hinder your brewing enjoyment. It’s time to separate the bean from the chaff! Let’s dive into five widespread coffee misconceptions and reveal the brewing truth behind them. You might be surprised by what you learn!
(more…)
Are you tired of that unpleasant bitterness that sometimes ruins your otherwise perfect cup of coffee? You’re not alone! Bitterness is a common coffee complaint, turning a moment of anticipated pleasure into a disappointing sip.
But what if I told you that achieving smooth, delicious, never-bitter coffee at home is easier than you think? Forget complicated techniques – these 5 simple, actionable tips are the secret weapon you need to unlock the naturally sweet and nuanced flavors of your favorite coffee beans. Time to say goodbye to bitter brews forever!
(more…)
Coffee Guide 