The Influence of Coffee Roast Levels on Grindability

Coffee enthusiasts understand that achieving the perfect cup of coffee requires careful consideration of various factors, one of which is the grind size. However, the coffee roast level plays a significant role in determining how easily coffee beans can be ground. In this article, we will explore the impact of different roast levels - light, medium, medium-dark, and dark - on grind-ability. Additionally, we will discuss which grind sizes work best for pour-over and espresso brewing methods. 

 

 

Light Roast

Lightly roasted coffee beans are characterised by their light brown colour and a delicate flavour profile. Due to their relatively denser structure, light roast beans tend to be harder and more challenging to grind. This is mainly due to the structure and strength being maintained through the roasting process. The firmness of the beans requires a coffee grinder with a burr grinder with adjustable settings. These types of grinders offer the precision needed to achieve a consistent and fine grind, which is ideal for pour-over brewing methods.

 

Medium Roast

Medium roast coffee beans have a medium brown color and are more flexible when it comes to grindability. They are neither too hard nor too soft, making them more manageable to grind. A burr grinder with adjustable settings can easily handle medium roast beans. This roast level provides a versatile range of grind sizes suitable for various brewing methods. For pour-over brewing, a medium-coarse grind is generally recommended to strike a balance between extraction and acidity.

 

Medium-Dark Roast

Medium-dark roast beans have a richer, darker brown colour, and their surface oils begin to emerge. As beans spend more time roasting, their structural integrity begin to decline. These beans are slightly softer and more brittle than their lighter counterparts, making them easier to grind. Both burr and blade grinders can effectively grind medium-dark roast coffee beans. For pour-over brewing, a medium-coarse to medium grind size is often preferred to prevent over-extraction and achieve a balanced flavour profile. 

 

Dark Roast

Dark roast coffee beans, with their shiny black appearance and prominent oil sheen, are the most brittle and easiest to grind among the various roast levels. The extended roasting process causes the beans to become porous and less dense. Consequently, dark roast beans can be ground effortlessly, even by entry-level blade grinders. For espresso brewing, a fine grind is generally recommended to extract the rich flavours locked within the beans. The finer grind allows for a slower extraction process, resulting in a concentrated and intense shot of espresso. 

 

Conclusion

The grind-ability of coffee beans is influenced by their roast level, with light roast beans being the most challenging to grind and dark roast beans being the easiest. Investing in a quality coffee grinder with adjustable settings, particularly a burr grinder, allows for greater control over grind size. For pour-over brewing, a medium-coarse to medium grind size is often preferred, while a fine grind is recommended for espresso brewing. By understanding the relationship between coffee roast levels, grind-ability, and brewing methods, coffee enthusiasts can take another step toward crafting the perfect cup of coffee. If you were interested in how the roast level can affect the level of aroma and flavour of your coffee, check that out here!