The coffee industry in Indonesia is undying, even though the process and way of drinking has changed. The ancients enjoyed coffee to strengthen friendship and boost morale at work. Today it still happens, the difference is that many young people also make coffee a lifestyle. This change makes it easier for everyone to enjoy coffee with the emergence of instant coffee.

Some coffee fans think instant coffee has a bad reputation. Whereas nowadays, many famous brands have used new technology. Then, what exactly is the difference between instant coffee and ground coffee? Let’s learn more below.

Difference between Instant Coffee and Ground Coffee
https://www.pexels.com/photo/anonymous-tourists-preparing-instant-coffee-during-trip-4792826/

What is Instant Coffee?

This type of coffee is made from coffee beans that undergo a grinding process, then brewing with hot water in a large container. After brewing, the result will be concentrated and dried into coffee crystals through freeze-drying or spray-drying.

As a result, shaped like chocolate flakes, instant coffee is highly favored in parts of Europe and Latin America. This type is very easy to brew without leaving annoying grounds.

What is Ground Coffee?

Most coffee enthusiasts are familiar with ground coffee. It is made from roasted coffee beans that have been ground. Some people choose to grind whole beans themselves, but there are also those who prefer ground coffee because it is more practical for daily use.

Caffeine Content in Ground Coffee and Instant Coffee

The average caffeine content in brewed instant coffee (8 ounces of coffee/237 ml of water) ranges from 27 to 173 mg. Meanwhile, a cup of coffee with the same amount contains about 95 to 200 mg of caffeine. So, if you’re looking to reduce your caffeine consumption, instant coffee is the way to go.

Instant coffee can be a great choice for people who are on the go or have limited time. The practical way to brew it is suitable as a shortcut during emergencies, such as when camping or there is no hot water to brew.

What’s the Difference between Ground Coffee and Instant Coffee?

At first glance, both are equally delicious, but there are differences between the two. Here are the differences between ground coffee and instant coffee, find your favorite.

Brewing Speed

Of course you already know which one is faster to brew, instant coffee can be enjoyed in just a moment. Put the coffee in, brew it with hot water, and enjoy. So, it is very suitable to be an option when pressed for time.

While brewing ground coffee takes 10-15 minutes, it also depends on the amount of coffee made and the brewing method. This is sometimes a consideration for connoisseurs if they are in a hurry in the morning.

Brewing Method

The second difference is in the brewing process. Instant coffee only needs to be brewed with hot water or cold water. Unlike ground coffee, brewing can be done with many variations. For example Drip Coffee, French press, Moka Pot, Chemex, or using an espresso machine.

This method of brewing is a bit of a hassle during busy times or emergencies. For example, when you’re outdoors, don’t have access to electricity, or forget to bring your brewing equipment. In these conditions, enjoying ground coffee is easiest using the tubruk method alone.

Expiration Period

Technically, coffee does not go bad but coffee that undergoes oxidation can lose its flavor and aromatics. Packaged ground coffee can last for a year, when opened the aroma and flavor last for 2-3 weeks only.

Unlike instant coffee, its storage period is somewhat longer because it has been pre-processed. It can last for 2 years in a sealed pack or for 6 months after opening.

Taste Differences

While robusta and arabica coffee used to be the most popular types, buying ground coffee now comes with many options and variations depending on the price. Meanwhile, instant coffee is known to have a weak, bitter and astringent coffee flavor. Most instant coffee is made from robusta beans. In addition, instant coffee is more common and standardized.

But that was a long time ago, nowadays many products innovate using new technologies that create flavor characters sourced from single origin coffee. So, you can choose robusta beans that taste slightly bitter, or arabica beans that are slightly sour.

Well, that’s the difference between instant coffee and ground coffee that can be used as information. Beyond that, both instant coffee and ground coffee are equally delicious depending on your preference and budget. (*)

Source: