HOW TO FIX SOUR ESPRESSO: 4 Easy Tips

Step-by-Step Tutorial: How to Fix Sour Espresso

Step 1: Understand the Causes of Sour Espresso

• When coffee is extracting, there are three main phases of flavor perception: sour, sweet, and bitter.
• Sourness in espresso can be caused by under-extraction, where the early compounds that taste sour are heightened.
• Over-extraction can lead to bitterness, which can also mask the sourness in the espresso.
• Concentration of fines or particulates in the coffee bed can also contribute to bitterness in the espresso.

Step 2: Adjust Your Extraction Process

• If your espresso is sour and the extraction time is short (e.g., 20 seconds), it may indicate that the grounds were too coarse. Tighten the grind size slightly and allow for more contact time to improve extraction.
• On the other hand, if your extraction time is too long (e.g., 50 seconds) with a one to one and a half coffee to water ratio, coarsen the grind to ensure more even extraction and prevent under-extracted coffee from dominating the cup.

Step 3: Ensure Even Extraction

• Focus on achieving a more even extraction by adjusting the grind size based on the flow of water through the puck.
• Avoid over-packing the grounds in the portafilter to allow water to flow evenly through the coffee bed.
• Consistent preparation techniques such as distribution and tamping can help in achieving a more balanced extraction.

Step 4: Experiment and Fine-Tune Your Process

• Experiment with different parameters such as grind size, extraction time, and coffee to water ratio to find the optimal balance for your espresso.
• Consider pushing your extraction slightly more to enhance the sweetness in your espresso.
• Continuously evaluate and adjust your preparation process to improve the overall taste and quality of your espresso.

Additional Tips:

• Consider running your shot longer or adjusting the yield based on the specific characteristics of the coffee you are using.
• Understand the difference between sourness (from under-extraction) and acidity (from the bean itself) to better diagnose and address flavor issues in your espresso.
• Focus on consistency in preparation, including grinding, distribution, tamping, and extraction time, to achieve more predictable and enjoyable espresso shots.

By following these steps and tips, you can effectively troubleshoot and fix sour espresso to achieve a sweeter, more balanced, and delicious shot of espresso at home. Experiment with different variables, observe the taste changes, and adjust accordingly to refine your espresso-making skills.