If you're buying coffee and have been wondering whether you should choose whole beans or ground coffee, you might be wondering if it really makes much difference.
The short answer is yes, but probably not for the reason you think.
The biggest difference is freshness. And while whole bean coffee does have an advantage, freshly ground coffee can still make a great cup, especially when the grind is right for your brewing method.
Why does grinding coffee make a difference?
Coffee beans contain oils and aromatic compounds that give coffee its flavour and aroma. Once you grind the beans, much more of the coffee is exposed to the air and the coffee starts to lose its freshness more quickly.
This is why grinding your beans just before brewing is often recommended. You are keeping the coffee protected for as long as possible and only exposing it to the air when you are ready to use it. It is one of the simplest ways to improve your coffee at home.
Why choose whole bean coffee?
If you have a coffee grinder, whole bean is generally the best option.
You can grind exactly what you need just before making your coffee, rather than having a whole bag of ground coffee sitting around once it has been opened.
You also have complete control over the grind size. Want a coarse grind for your cafetiere? No problem. Making espresso? You can use a much finer grind. Using an AeroPress or filter coffee maker? You can adjust the grind to suit your recipe.
Being able to change the grind can make a noticeable difference to the taste of your coffee. The downside is fairly simple. You need a grinder, and you have to spend a minute or two grinding your coffee before you brew. For some people, that is part of the enjoyment. For others, they just want to put the kettle on and get their coffee made.
Why choose ground coffee?
There is nothing wrong with choosing ground coffee. In fact, for a lot of people it is the more practical option. There is no grinder to buy, no extra equipment taking up space in the kitchen and no need to grind your coffee every morning. Just measure out what you need and brew. The important thing is to make sure you are buying the right grind for your coffee maker. Coffee that is too coarse can result in a weak and under extracted cup, while coffee that is too fine can make the coffee taste bitter or harsh.
This is why we recommend choosing your grind based on how you make your coffee, rather than simply buying a generic "ground coffee".
What grind should I use?
Different brewing methods work best with different grind sizes.
Cafetiere: A coarse grind
Filter coffee: Medium to fine grind
AeroPress: A fine+ grind
Espresso: Extra fine
These are useful starting points, but they are not absolute rules. Your coffee, equipment and recipe can all affect the grind you need. If your coffee tastes weak or sour, you may need a finer grind. If it tastes bitter or overly strong, a coarser grind may help.
A little experimentation can go a long way.
Is freshly ground coffee better than ground coffee?
Generally, yes.
Grinding your coffee immediately before brewing gives you the best chance of getting as much flavour and aroma as possible from the beans. But that does not mean you need to own an expensive grinder to enjoy good coffee. If you prefer the convenience of ground coffee, buying coffee that has been freshly ground to order is a great alternative. You can choose the grind that suits your brewing method and have your coffee arrive ready to use.
For many people, it offers a good balance between quality and convenience.
So, should you buy whole bean or ground coffee?
If you already have a grinder, we would recommend trying whole beans. Being able to grind your coffee just before brewing is one of the easiest ways to improve your coffee at home. If you do not have a grinder, or simply do not want the extra step, go for ground coffee. Just make sure it is ground correctly for the way you make your coffee.
There is no point buying whole beans if you are never going to get around to grinding them. The best coffee is the coffee you will actually enjoy making and drinking.
How should you store your coffee?
Whichever option you choose, good storage is important.
Keep your coffee somewhere cool and dry, away from direct sunlight, heat and moisture. An airtight container in a kitchen cupboard is a much better option than leaving the bag next to the kettle.
It is also worth avoiding buying far more coffee than you are going to use. Smaller quantities bought more regularly will generally give you a fresher cup.
Whole bean or ground? You decide.
There is a good reason so many coffee drinkers prefer whole beans. Grinding just before brewing helps protect the coffee's flavour and aroma and gives you control over the grind size. But ground coffee is still an excellent choice, particularly when it has been freshly ground to suit your brewing method.
At Norfolk Pig Coffee Co, you can choose any of our coffees as whole bean or ground for your preferred brewing method.
Simply select your grind when ordering and we will prepare your coffee ready for brewing.
Browse our full range of coffee