Amazon Basics Coffee Grinder: Budget-Friendly but Basic

The Amazon Basics Electric Coffee Grinder is a budget-friendly option for those seeking a straightforward way to grind coffee beans and other dry ingredients at home.

Pros:

• Quick and Efficient: Capable of grinding 30 grams (1 ounce) of beans in approximately 10 seconds, making it suitable for drip coffee brewing.
• Versatile Use: Beyond coffee beans, it can grind herbs, spices, grains, and nuts, making it a versatile addition to your kitchen tools.
• User-Friendly Design: Features a clear safety lid for monitoring the grinding process and a compact design that’s easy to store.
• Positive Customer Feedback: Holds a 4.4-star rating from over 19,000 reviews, with users praising its performance and value.

Cons:

• Durability Concerns: Some users have reported that the grinder’s switch breaks after limited use, suggesting durability issues.
• Cleaning Challenges: While some find it easy to clean, others have noted difficulties in maintaining the grinder, particularly with residue buildup.
• Limited Grind Consistency: As a blade grinder, it may not deliver the uniform grind size required for certain brewing methods, such as espresso.

In summary, the Amazon Basics Electric Coffee Grinder offers a cost-effective solution for everyday coffee grinding needs, especially for drip coffee enthusiasts. However, if you require precise grind sizes for specialized brewing methods or seek a more durable appliance, you might consider investing in a higher-end grinder.

I recently used the Amazon Basics Electric Coffee Grinder to prepare the Buffalo-Style Dry Rub from Keith’s Kitchen Chronicles, and it proved to be an efficient tool for grinding spices.

How I Used the Grinder for the Dry Rub

The recipe calls for a blend of spices, including smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cayenne pepper, dried mustard, oregano, and sugar. To ensure a uniform mix, I measured the whole spices and placed them into the grinder. Using short pulses, I ground the mixture until it reached a fine consistency. The grinder’s clear lid allowed me to monitor the process, ensuring I didn’t over-grind the spices.

Tips for Optimal Results

• Batch Size: Grind in small batches to prevent overloading the grinder and to achieve a consistent texture.
• Cleaning: After use, clean the grinder promptly to prevent flavor transfer between different spices or coffee beans.
• Grinding Technique: Use short pulses rather than continuous grinding to avoid overheating the spices, which can affect their flavor.

The Amazon Basics Electric Coffee Grinder proved to be a valuable tool for preparing the Buffalo-Style Dry Rub, delivering a consistent grind that enhanced the wings’ flavor.