Is there a secret to making the perfect cup of coffee? Many people think so and there are dozens of recipes and tips for brewing the perfect cup of java. Some feel it is all in how you store your coffee and claim that it should be stored in an airtight container that is placed in a dry, cool place. The grinding of fresh coffee beans for each use is also preferred, rather than buying the beans already ground. Most agree that beans will stay fresh in this way for around 14 days. They also suggest that you not store coffee next to anything with a strong odor, such as onions or garlic, as it will pick up odors from other foods.
Naturally, how you brew your regular coffee, gourmet coffee or even flavored coffees has an affect on the taste and since water represents about 98% of all coffees, many suggest using cold filtered or bottled water to enhance the taste. The optimum temperature for the water that is used for brewing is between 195 and 205 degrees, so if your coffee begins to have a weak taste, then you may want to make sure that the temperature gauge is working.
How the coffee is ground has an affect on the taste. If the grind is too fine, then you will very likely end up with a bitter cup of coffee and it also has a tendency to clog coffee machines. However, if it is ground too coarsely, then you will end up with very weak coffee. Using 2 tablespoons for every 6 fluid ounces is the recommended ratio.
Recently, there has been a debate over the way coffee beans are grown; organic versus regular methods. Many reasons are sited for this including that it makes growing coffee more “green” or more environmentally and ecologically friendly. Others claim that these organic coffees have a much better taste and there are no additives or preservatives, just a rich bold flavor.
It is a good idea to keep coffee makers very clean in order to avoid bad tasting coffee and it is suggested that you run a mixture of vinegar and water through the machine, followed by another cycle or two of just plain water about every 2 to 3 weeks. If that perfect cup of coffee eludes you, then you may want to consider using a stainless steel or mesh filter, as the disposable paper ones may contain bleach, chlorine and dyes that will affect the taste of your coffee.
