Coffee Grinding at its Best!

The name of my blog is Time for Coffee, as well you know. I have made no secret of the fact that I love coffee. It can be a wonderful comfort, distraction and/or energizer, all in one if need be. I was asked one time what my favorite coffee was. My response was, "Mine!" I realized she meant brand of coffee, but I always felt my espresso machine and I made a mean cup of joe, even though I'd used a few different brands over the years. And, if I do say so myself, I've been complimented numerous times by guests.

Well, I have to confess I didn't know what good was until my husband! ;-) He is good but I was referring to the gift he gave me (Christmas came early). Please remember that Brian hates coffee (though I married him anyway.) Despite his distaste for this delicious ambrosia, he spent hours researching coffee grinders unbeknownst to me. I hadn't complained about my grinder; I've just been thrilled the past month to finally have my espresso machine unpacked and back in use!

Where did he get this idea? I don't know, but I love him even more for it AND my coffee!! OMG! Who knew a grinder could make such a difference?! Sure, I was aware that grinding my coffee fresh for each cup was best. Although I have to admit I usually ground enough coffee for about 3 or 4 cups at a time. After all, I had to fill the grinder to a certain point to run it! I had a system down, a rather crude system but a system nonetheless. I would count off the seconds for the grind, coarseness level, I felt was best for my machine. Needless to say, this produced inconsistent results. In addition, my old grinder has blades which apparently is 'hazardous' to your coffee! They don't really grind the coffee as they are more like a blender, chopping the coffee. Do you want the details? Well, in brief, the blades produce friction and heat, degrading your coffee and the oils left in the grinder can become rancid, mixing in with your coffee. For a more extensive description between the two types of grinders see Gimme! Coffee.

My new grinder is electric but is based on the vintage one pictured here, using conical burrs to actually grind the beans. Now to the results! Can I just say - WOW! As a rule, I take my coffee with a splash of milk. I almost did my usual with the first cup utilizing the new grind. In fact, two drops of milk went in before I thought - Hey, let's really put this to the test. I took a sip of the black brew. Hmmm, this is good. Strong, not bitter and very smooth! Of the four cups I've had since the blessed arrival, only one had milk in it and I think I now prefer my coffee black. I NEVER thought that would happen! The difference is difficult to describe and needs to be experienced.

My life has changed! No, I'm not being dramatic!! I had no idea how vastly different it would be; now there is no going back! I would recommend doing a little research, too. Brian tells me that the high end of these grinders can cost as much as $800! Ridiculous! Trust me, Brian did not pay anywhere near that much. If research is not your bag, or you need the experience first, come on over and enjoy a cup!