Coffee & Spice Grinders

What is a coffee grinder?

A coffee grinder is a kitchen appliance or tool specifically designed to crush and grind coffee beans into a finer consistency for brewing. There are two main types: blade grinders and burr grinders.

• Blade Grinders: These have a blade that spins to chop the beans into smaller pieces. They’re typically more affordable but can produce uneven grinds, which might affect the taste of the coffee.

• Burr Grinders: These use two revolving abrasive surfaces (burrs) to crush the beans evenly. They offer a more consistent grind size, which is important for achieving a balanced flavour in your coffee. Burr grinders come in two varieties: flat burr and conical burr.

Coffee grinders come in manual and electric versions, and the choice depends on your preferences for convenience and grind precision.

What does a coffee grinder do?  

An electric coffee grinder transforms whole coffee beans into a grind suitable for brewing. It does this by breaking down the beans into smaller particles, which can then be extracted to create coffee. The grind size can vary from coarse (like for a French press) to fine (like for espresso), depending on how you plan to brew your coffee. By grinding beans right before brewing, you maximise freshness and flavour, as ground coffee starts to lose its potency relatively quickly.

What can you make in a coffee grinder? 

A coffee grinder’s primary use is to grind coffee beans, but its versatility extends beyond just coffee. It can also be used to make coffee grounds, spice blends, nut flours, herb powers, sugar, grains and seeds. Using a coffee grinder for these tasks can be a great way to make use of its ability to produce fine, consistent particles, enhancing the flavour and texture of your dishes.

Is a coffee grinder worth it? 

Absolutely, a coffee grinder is a valuable tool for enhancing your coffee experience. Grinding beans just before brewing captures their full flavour and aroma, resulting in a fresher, more enjoyable cup. It also allows for precise grind size adjustments to suit different brewing methods. Beyond coffee, these electric grinders can also handle spices, herbs and nuts, making them a versatile addition to your kitchen.