The coffee-to-water ratio, or dosage, is arguably the most crucial variable in brewing, second only to grind size. It dictates the strength and balance of your final cup. Getting it right is the difference between a weak, watery brew and a rich, satisfying one.
For Itadi Robusta, finding the perfect ratio is essential to harness its bold flavor without extracting too much bitterness.
1. The Golden Ratio: A Starting Point
The industry standard for a balanced cup is often referred to as the "Golden Ratio," which is typically between 1:15 and 1:18 (coffee grounds to water, by weight).
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Ratio
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Coffee (grams)
|
Water (grams/ml)
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Strength
|
|
1:15
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20g
|
300g
|
Stronger, more intense
|
|
1:17
|
20g
|
340g
|
Balanced, standard
|
|
1:18
|
20g
|
360g
|
Lighter, more subtle
|
Always measure by weight. Using a kitchen scale is the only way to ensure consistency. Measuring by volume (scoops) is highly inaccurate due to variations in bean density and grind size.
2. Why Robusta Needs a Different Approach
Robusta beans are known for their intensity, high caffeine content, and bold flavor. This intensity means that a standard Arabica ratio might result in an overly strong or even bitter cup if not managed correctly.
•Higher Extraction Yield: Robusta's chemical composition means flavor compounds are extracted more readily.
•The Adjustment: To compensate for this, many brewers find that a slightly higher ratio (more water relative to coffee, e.g., 1:18 or even 1:20) works best for Robusta. This allows the water to gently pull the desired flavors without over-extracting the more bitter compounds.
Tip: Start at 1:17 for your Itadi Robusta and slowly increase the water (e.g., to 1:18) until you find the perfect balance of intensity and smoothness for your palate.
3. Dosage by Brewing Method
The ideal ratio can also be influenced by the brewing method:
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Method
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Recommended Ratio
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Notes
|
|
Pour-Over (V60, Chemex)
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1:16 to 1:18
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Allows for precise control over extraction.
|
|
French Press
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1:12 to 1:15
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The longer immersion time requires a slightly stronger ratio.
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|
Drip Machine
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1:15 to 1:17
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Use the higher end of the ratio for a less intense cup.
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|
Espresso
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1:2 to 1:3 (Brew Ratio)
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Espresso uses a different ratio (coffee to liquid espresso) due to high pressure.
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Mastering your coffee dosage is a simple yet powerful step toward brewing perfection. By understanding the Golden Ratio and making slight adjustments to accommodate the natural boldness of your Itadi Robusta, you can ensure a consistent, perfectly balanced, and intensely flavorful cup every single time.
References:
•[1] Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) – Technical standards for brewing and extraction.
•[2] The Professional Barista's Handbook – Practical guide to coffee-to-water ratios.
•[3] Coffee Science: A Guide to the Chemistry of Coffee – Analysis of how dosage affects extraction yield.