Dialling in is the daily ritual that separates consistent baristas from inconsistent ones. This systematic approach gets you there in...
# How to Dial In a Grinder Without Wasting Half a Bag of Coffee
If you've ever tried making espresso at home, you know how frustrating it can be to dial in a new bag of coffee. One shot is too sour, the next is too bitter, and before you know it, you've used a lot of beans.
The good news is that you don't need to waste half a bag of coffee to get great results. With a few simple steps, you can find the right grind setting while using much less coffee.
## Start with a Good Grind Setting
If you're using a new grinder, start with the recommended espresso setting in the manual. If you've used similar beans before, begin with the grind setting that worked well last time.
This gives you a good starting point and saves time.
## Keep Everything Else the Same
When dialing in your grinder, only change the grind size. Keep these things the same:
* Coffee dose
* Water temperature
* Tamping pressure
* Brew ratio
Changing only one thing at a time makes it easier to know what works.
## Make Small Changes
Don't make big adjustments to the grinder.
* If your espresso comes out too fast, make the grind a little finer.
* If it comes out too slowly, make it a little coarser.
Small changes can make a big difference.
## Don't Waste Coffee
After changing the grind setting, you only need to grind a small amount of coffee to clear out the old grounds inside the grinder. Usually, 1–2 grams is enough.
There's no need to throw away a lot of coffee every time you make an adjustment.
## Taste Your Coffee
Shot time is helpful, but taste is even more important.
* Sour or weak coffee usually means the grind is too coarse.
* Bitter or harsh coffee usually means the grind is too fine.
* Sweet and balanced coffee means you're close to the perfect setting.
Trust your taste buds.
## Write Down Your Settings
Keep a simple note of:
* Grind setting
* Coffee dose
* Shot time
* Taste
The next time you use the same coffee, you'll know exactly where to start.
## Be Ready to Make Small Adjustments
Coffee changes over time, especially as it gets older or the weather changes. You may need to make small grind adjustments from day to day, and that's completely normal.
## Final Thoughts
Dialing in your grinder doesn't have to be difficult or expensive. Start with a good setting, make small changes, and only adjust one thing at a time. Most importantly, taste your coffee and enjoy the process.
With a little patience, you'll make better espresso while saving both coffee and money.