Should You Add Salt To Your Coffee? A Discussion on the Pros and Cons (2 of 3)

What Purpose Does Salt in Coffee Serve?

Food science experts note that adding salt to coffee can enhance the taste of bitter robustas and dark roast coffees without the need for other additives. It also brings out the sweetness of coffee and maintains pleasant aromas. For those who want to enjoy a less bitter coffee without resorting to adding milk and/or sugar, salt is a viable alternative.

What is the Best Method For Adding Salt?

If you want to test out salt in your cup of coffee, “a little salt goes a long way” is the rule to follow. But before you even get to that stage, some experts recommend that you prepare your espresso or slow-drip coffee first and take a tiny sip to determine its level of bitterness. After that, add salt in very tiny pinches until you have achieved your preferred taste profile. Finish by adding milk and sugar depending on how you like your coffee served. On the other hand, if you’re using the French press or pour-over coffee method, you should consider adding salt directly to your coffee grounds before brewing so that it dissolves completely.

The precise amount of salt you add to your coffee is entirely your choice, but a good starting point is approximately 1/16 teaspoon per cup. Add the salt to your empty cup and add a splash of coffee, stirring it before pouring the rest of the cup. Pause for a moment before adding more salt, as it takes a bit of time for the crystals to dissolve. If you’re making cold brew, you would still want to make sure to add the coffee while it’s still hot.