Five Tips to Improve Your Morning Coffee

At Grounds & Hounds, we believe that the best coffee is brewed at home and enjoyed with your best friend.  But not all of us have the training of an expert barista. Whether you just recently started drinking coffee or have been addicted for years, here are a few tips to get the best out of your morning brew.

#1. Use Fresh Coffee Beans

This one may seem obvious, but the sooner you brew the coffee after it’s roasted, the better the flavor.  This means you shouldn’t stockpile coffee for the coming year, but instead buy fresh coffee consistently. Joining our coffee club is an easy way to ensure your beans on hand are the freshest.

#2. Perfect your Coffee to Water Ratio

General recommendations are that you use 2 tablespoons of ground coffee for every 6oz of water, but it really comes down to personal taste.  If you want a stronger cup, use more grounds. We recommend using a scale as a precise measurement of your ratio is always best.  And it allows you to fine tune your brew to your exact preference.

#3 Don’t Grind Until You’re Ready

Whenever possible, wait to grind your beans until just before you brew.  Grinding the coffee speeds up oxidation. In layman’s terms: it goes stale more quickly.  So, rather than grind your beans the night before or the whole bag at once – make it a ritual to grind only the beans you’ll use right before every brew.

#4 Rinse the Filter

If you’re using paper filters, it’s always a good idea to flush it out with some hot water before introducing your grounds.  This initial rinse will remove any paper flavors present in the filter, allowing the full flavor of the coffee to stand front and center.  And, of course, make sure you’re using  high quality filters.

#5 Warm the Mug

Your delicious, warm coffee can receive quite a shock being poured into a cold mug.  While rinsing your filter with hot water, let the water drain into your mug and remain there until ready.  Dump the hot water before pouring your coffee in – a warm mug will keep your coffee hot longer, giving you a little extra time to slow down and enjoy your morning.