Question about grinding coffee right before you brew

Honestly, I was just using pre-ground stuff from a big bag for months because it was easy. My friend came over last week, smelled my coffee, and straight up said 'Betty, that smells stale, you're killing the flavor.' I'm guessing I need a grinder, but are the cheap ones at the store any good, or is it a waste?

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3 Comments

the_matthew6mo ago

Wait, your friend just walked in and said your coffee smells stale? That's some bold honesty right there. Honestly, the cheap blade grinders are a rough start, they make a lot of heat and uneven bits. A basic burr grinder makes a huge difference, but even a cheap one is better than pre-ground from months ago.

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barbara_campbell6mo ago

My buddy Dave had a blade grinder for years. He swore it was fine. Then his sister visited and asked if he was making coffee or potting soil. That got him. He saved up for a basic burr grinder, the kind under fifty bucks. The very next pot was a totally different drink. Smoother, no weird bitter bite. He said it was like wiping a foggy window clean.

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robin_roberts846mo ago

Your friend is not wrong. That pre-ground stuff turns into flavorless dust after a week. The_matthew nailed it about the heat from a cheap blade grinder. Reminds me of my old roommate who used one. Sounded like a jet engine, and his coffee always tasted kinda burnt. A basic burr grinder is a solid move, way more even.

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