Coffee

There's a lot to learn about coffee, from how to brew it for the best flavor, to how to use it in cooking. When brewing coffee, many individuals tend to use incorrect water to coffee ratios or they don't grind their beans properly resulting in a cup that's too weak or too strong. The extraction process greatly influences the final taste of the coffee; an overly long or short extraction can make your coffee taste too bitter or too sour respectively. The water temperature also plays a crucial role in the extraction process. The trick is to aim for a temperature between 195 to 205 degree Fahrenheit for optimal extraction. In terms of cooking with coffee, it can be used in both sweet and savory recipes to add a deep, robust flavor. However, people often make the mistake of using coffee that’s too weak, which doesn't impart any significant flavor to the dish. No need to limit coffee's use to desserts — it pairs well with spices like chili powder and cumin for rich, meaty dishes, and can be used to make a delicious marinade or dry rub. Coffee also pairs excellently with chocolate, amplifying its deep, rich flavors. A little known hack: lightly sprinkle coffee grounds over the top of a dish before serving, to add a unique visual and taste twist. The above being said, it's important to note that not all kinds of coffee are created equal and the flavor profile can change significantly depending on the region it was grown, how it was processed and roasted. Experimenting with different types is key to finding your personal favorite.