What does the term 'extraction' refer to in coffee brewing?

The term 'extraction' in coffee brewing specifically refers to the infusion of water through coffee grounds. This process is critical to making coffee as it involves dissolving the soluble compounds from the coffee grounds into the water, which ultimately creates the beverage. The extraction process impacts the flavor, aroma, and overall quality of the final cup of coffee.

Proper extraction means finding the right balance of time, temperature, and grind size to ensure that desirable flavor compounds are released while minimizing any unwanted bitterness from over-extraction. Understanding extraction is essential for baristas and coffee enthusiasts as it allows them to craft better tasting coffee by adjusting these variables based on the brewing method being used.