Create the Perfect Cup of Joe with This Guide to Grinding Coffee Beans in a Blender
Making coffee from freshly ground beans is a decadent way to start each day. Until recently, grinding the beans was cost prohibitive for many as a special grinder was required. Fortunately, with the help of a kitchen blender, it is now possible to use your regular beans at home and enjoy the benefits of freshly ground coffee.
To use your blender, start by gathering your supplies: beans, a kitchen blender, and a measuring spoon to measure the beans. Place the blender on a flat surface, such as a flat counter or table. It’s important that the blender is on a flat surface so the vibrations during operation do not cause other objects to fall off your counter top or table. Additionally, any spills can be contained more easily.
Once the blender is in place, the first step is to determine the size of grind you need for your coffee maker. Drip makers require a medium ground bean, which when poured into your hand, some beans will stick together, but most will slip through. Espresso machines prefer a medium-fine ground coffee, where most beans stick together but individual grains are visible. For French press makers, a coarse texture is better as the beans should not stick together at all.
It is recommended to begin with a small amount of beans first, in order to determine the yield of ground beans you will get from the blender. Generally, a handful of beans will yield one to two tablespoons of ground coffee.
For the perfect grind, it’s recommended you use a Mason jar attachment in place of the blender body. This method ensures a much finer grind and is much simpler process. Simply place your beans into the Mason jar, attach it to the blade attachment, and screw the blade attachment on to the blender base.
Once in the blender, the next step is to blend the beans. Make sure that the blender is firmly secured, as an explosion of beans will occur if the lid is not secure. For the most effective results, start with a pulse setting on the blender. This will prevent the beans from burning, potentially ruining the flavor of your coffee. If you don’t have a pulse setting, simply turn the blender off every few minutes to allow the beans to cool. Do not, however, put your hand in the blender while it is in use, as it is improper and dangerous.
Once you’ve achieved the desired texture, or if you find the texture isn’t changing any further, make sure to turn the blender off and unplug it. Carefully twist the blade attachment off the blender body, then rinse both parts in the sink. Most blender bodies can be placed in the dishwasher for a deeper clean. In contrast, the blade attachment should be washed by hand as to avoid any hidden cuts.
The next step is to pour the ground beans into your coffee filter and make your coffee as you normally would. Enjoy the delightful aroma and flavor of freshly ground, homemade coffee!
Overall, grinding coffee beans with a blender is a simple process with great rewards. Just make sure to use a flat surface; choose the correct texture for your type of coffee maker; use a small amount of beans at first; understand the proper way to use your blender; and remember to take safety measures always. With the right prep and practice, you’ll be rewarded with the perfect cup of coffee every morning!
