What is the primary function of a coffee grinder?

The primary function of a coffee grinder is to define the grind size of coffee beans. This is a crucial step in the coffee-making process because the size of the grind significantly impacts the extraction of flavors from the coffee during brewing. If the coffee beans are ground too coarsely, the extraction may be weak, leading to a underwhelming flavor profile. Conversely, if the grind is too fine, the coffee can become over-extracted, resulting in a bitter taste.

The grind size also influences the brewing method chosen; different methods, such as espresso, French press, or drip coffee, require different grind sizes to achieve the optimal balance of flavor, strength, and aroma. Therefore, having control over the grind size allows baristas to tailor the coffee preparation to highlight the specific characteristics of the beans being used, making it a fundamental part of coffee brewing.