How to Make Coffee Less Acidic: Reducing Acidity for a Smooth Brew

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Are you a coffee lover with a sensitive stomach that just can’t handle the acidity of coffee? Or maybe you’re one of the many coffee drinkers who suffer from acid reflux and need a less acidic cup of coffee? The good news is, you’re not alone, and there are ways to make your morning coffee a little friendlier to your digestive tract. In this blog post, we’ll share tips and tricks on how to make coffee less acidic, making your brew smoother and more enjoyable. So, let’s dive right in!

A steaming cup of coffee sits on a wooden table, with coffee beans scattered around. The background is blurred, focusing the attention on the coffee.

1. Choose the Right Type of Coffee Bean

The type of coffee bean you choose plays a significant role in the acidity of your coffee. Arabica beans, for instance, tend to be less acidic than robusta beans. Coffee grown at lower elevations also tends to have less acidity than those grown at higher elevations. So, the first thing you need to do is choose low acid coffee beans that suit your taste buds and stomach.

A handful of Arabica coffee beans spread on a wooden table.

2. Consider the Roast Level

The roasting process significantly impacts the acidity of the coffee. Lighter roasts tend to have higher levels of chlorogenic acids, which contribute to a more acidic cup of coffee. On the other hand, darker roasts have less acidity as the roasting process breaks down these acids. So, opting for dark roast coffee beans or even a medium roast can be a good option for making coffee with less acidity.

Dark roast coffee beans spread on a dark surface, showcasing their shiny, oily surface.

3. Pay Attention to Grind Size

The grind size of your coffee grounds can also alter the acidity of your coffee. A coarser grind will result in less extraction of the coffee acids, leading to a less acidic brew. In contrast, a finer grind will lead to more extraction, resulting in a more acidic cup of coffee. So, if you’re looking to reduce the coffee’s acidity, go for a coarser grind.

Close-up view of coarse ground coffee spread on a wooden surface.

4. Experiment with Different Brewing Methods

The brewing method you choose can also affect the acidity of your brew. For instance, cold brew coffee tends to have less acidity than hot brewed coffee. This is because the cold brewing process extracts fewer organic acids from the coffee grounds, resulting in a smoother and less acidic brew. French press and espresso methods, on the other hand, tend to extract more acids, leading to a more acidic cup of coffee. So, experiment with different brewing methods to find the one that gives you the level of acidity you prefer.

Cold brew coffee in a glass jar with coffee grounds at the bottom.

5. Adjust the Brew Time

How long you brew your coffee also plays a main factor in its acidity. Longer brewing times can lead to a higher extraction of acids, resulting in a more acidic brew. So, if you’re looking to make your coffee less acidic, try reducing the brew time. But be careful not to under-extract, as this can lead to a weak and sour taste. Balance is key here.

A timer next to a French press filled with coffee, symbolizing the importance of brewing time.

6. Use Alkaline Water or Add a Pinch of Salt

The pH of your water can affect the pH of your coffee. Using alkaline water or adding a pinch of salt to your coffee can help neutralize the acidity. Sodium bicarbonate, for instance, can be a great acid reducer. Just remember, a little goes a long way. You don’t want to end up with salty coffee!

A pinch of salt being sprinkled into a cup of coffee.

7. Try Different Additives

Additives like milk and cream can help reduce the acidity of your coffee. Dairy products contain calcium, which neutralizes the coffee acids. Almond milk can also be a good option for those who are lactose intolerant or prefer non-dairy options. Another additive that can help is egg shells. They are alkaline and can help balance out the acidity in your coffee.

A splash of milk being poured into a cup of coffee.

8. Opt for Decaf Coffee

Decaf coffee is often less acidic than regular coffee. This is because the decaffeination process can reduce the amount of chlorogenic acids in the coffee. So, if you’re really struggling with acid reflux or a sensitive stomach, switching to decaf might be a good thing to consider.

A cup of decaf coffee with steam rising from it, placed next to a decaf coffee packet.

9. Check Your Water Hardness

Believe it or not, the hardness of your water can also affect the acidity of your coffee. Hard water, which is high in minerals, can result in a less acidic brew as the minerals can interact with the coffee acids. On the other hand, soft water can result in a more acidic brew. So, if you’re living in a hard water area, this might be good news for your coffee acidity!

A glass of water next to a water hardness test kit.

10. Opt for Cold Brew or Iced Coffee

Last but not least, if you’re still struggling with the acidity of your coffee, why not try cold brew or iced coffee? These methods use cold water and longer brewing times, resulting in a smoother, less acidic brew. Not to mention, they’re a great way to beat the heat in the summer months!

A tall glass of iced coffee, with a straw and condensation on the outside of the glass, placed on a wooden table.

And there you have it, folks! These are some of the best methods on how to make coffee less acidic. Remember, every coffee lover is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. So, don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you. After all, coffee is all about enjoyment. Happy brewing!

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