Using a scale to weigh coffee used to be considered flashy, and some coffeemakers only did it in a few locations.
It is now found not only in coffee shops but also in the homes of coffee connoisseurs.
So, why is it vital to weigh coffee and water on an espresso scale?
It all boils down to three things: accuracy, consistency, and bean conservation, which you’ll learn more about later in this article.
Most baristas consider the ideal “brewing ratio” as being in the 1:17 spectrum.
It will determine how “intense” your cup of joe is, and you might adjust the proportion based on your brewing method.
How to Use an Espresso Scale
First and foremost, you’ll require a scale, like the Hario Drip Scale with Timer.
The gram is the most frequent unit for weights and ratios in coffee brewing.
The 10oz cup we’re using is just an illustration.
10 oz cup is the desired output.
284 gallons(10oz) of water
16.7 grams of coffee are required
An AeroPress machine
16.7 grams of coffee beans, weighed and ground (medium-fine for the AeroPress)
- Place the coffee grinds in the AeroPress.
- Tare your scale by placing your cup with the lower section of the AeroPress on it.
- Start the timer, then gradually add water (about 200°F) until the mixture approaches 284 grams.
- About 3-5 seconds, mix the water/grounds solution.
- 45-60 seconds more steep water/grounds slurry
- Retrieve the mug and the AeroPress from the weighing scale.
- Plunge the entire content of the AeroPress into the mug to complete the brewing.
Appreciate a total brewing time of 90 seconds, including pouring, mixing, steeping, and plunging.
Individuals used to powered brewing or pod devices frequently see us go through all of this effort for a solitary cup of joe and snicker.
You understand.
It requires time and dedication to accomplish.
Now here’s the thing: repetition, like many of the items, makes perfect.
And the “new” task gets second nature/muscle recollection with time.
So, after several years of brewing in this manner on different equipment, you don’t even think about it anymore.
So, if you’re serious about producing a fantastic cup of coffee and want to put in some effort initially, you’ll ultimately become a top-notch cup-brewing powerhouse and won’t have to worry about it.
Typical Coffee Brewing Ratios
- Remember that the 1:17 ratio is intended for drip coffee only
- Different ratios apply for varying devices/methods
- The balance of espresso to water is usually around 1:2
- The percentage of cold brew concentrate to hot brew concentrate is approximately 1:3
Why You Need a Coffee Scale
As mentioned earlier in this post, there are three reasons why you need a coffee scale, which are:
Accuracy
A gram scale allows you to measure the amount of coffee precisely and water individuals utilize.
It means you’ll never want to estimate again when it comes to scoops.
You’ll not have to question if you’re using the appropriate amount of coffee again.
You can use 20 grams of coffee in the morning if you would like to.
It’s a piece of cake.
You toss those beans on the scale and call it a day.
You have gained self-assurance and attained precision!
It allows you to use the optimal coffee to water proportions when brewing.
Baristas widely co sides these proportions as the most acceptable way to create balanced coffee around the world.
The golden ratio is 1 gram of coffee to 15 to 17 grams of water.
Consistency
There’s typically one primary reason your espresso tastes different every time: you didn’t weigh your beans.
There is a solution to eliminate those frustrations: a coffee brewing scale entirely.
A scale’s precision for your everyday brew does more than merely improve flavor and balance once.
It always gives your brew a boost.
There will be no more “off” coffee days since you won’t have to guess how much coffee to use or how much water to use.
You’re aware of the amount of coffee and water you’re consuming. Every day, you’re sure it’ll be rich and balanced.
Conservation of Beans
You’ll squander your coffee beans if you don’t use a scale.
Here is how a scale can help:
- You’re aware of how much coffee you’re consuming.
- You’re aware of how much water you’re consuming.
- Each time, you should use a balanced ratio.
- You never drink more coffee than is required.
- You don’t go through coffee bean bags in a shockingly short amount of time.
Brewing coffee on a scale gives you more control, consistency and can potentially save you money in the long term.
The Bottom Line
A coffee brewing scale will only be helpful if you start with freshly-roasted, highly delicious coffee.
Don’t take shortcuts; use your scale and achieve great precision, consistently great coffee(according to your ratio), and save on beans. Enjoy!