What does "brewing time" refer to in coffee making?

Brewing time specifically refers to the duration for which coffee grounds are in contact with water during the brewing process. This is a critical factor in coffee making, as it directly influences the extraction of flavors and compounds from the coffee grounds. If the brewing time is too short, the coffee may taste weak or under-extracted, lacking in the rich flavors and aromas that come from properly combining the coffee with water. Conversely, if the brewing time is too long, it can lead to over-extraction, resulting in a bitter or unpleasant taste.

Understanding brewing time is essential for achieving the desired flavor profile in your coffee. Different brewing methods require different brewing times to optimize the extraction process, which is why this term is crucial in the context of coffee preparation. The emphasis on the contact between coffee grounds and water at this stage highlights the importance of timing in developing the quality of the final cup.