For the longest time I’ve wondered why my coffee tends to run either bitter or too watery. I even bought a fancy 64mm flat burr grinder, and noticed the problem became even more pronounced.
Everyone always says how important water is, and I figured my reverse osmosis water with an alkaline stage was probably fine, coming out of the tap at around 50 PPM. It turns out the ideal TDS is actually around 150. My water’s TDS was too low. More info here: https://www.raleighcoffeecompany.com/tds-and-coffee/
Using a cheap TDS meter and water alkaline drops, I got my water’s TDS up to around 150 PPM by adding a couple drops into my kettle, and brewed a cup of coffee with it. It actually made a difference! Lesson learned, pay attention to your water.
I use third wave and distilled water for my coffee, very consistent this way.
Oh, I’m gonna try this! I feel like my brew is ‘ok’, but this makes me think it can be so much better.
What’s an affordable way to check TDS?
TDS meters are cheap, around $15. If I were to buy a new one, I’d look for one that could also read the pH level.
Interestingly, Coffee Chronicler says the ideal TDS for filter coffee is a bit lower, ideally 30-100 PPM: https://coffeechronicler.com/best-water-for-coffee/
Highly recommend cupping your favourite coffee with different kinds of water (e.g. tap, mineral, DIY water see below). It’s pretty eye opening.
Here’s how to make your own, if you’re motivated to try: https://www.baristahustle.com/diy-water-recipes-the-world-in-two-bottles/
