Which coffee for a percolator? Check out our tips!

If you’re a fan of authentic, full-bodied coffee, then a percolator is a brilliant way to brew your favourite cup. This classic coffee brewing method, often associated with the iconic Bialetti, delivers an intense and flavourful coffee experience. But which coffee works best in a percolator? And is percolator coffee actually unhealthy?

In this article, we take a closer look at the world of percolator coffee. We’ll share the best tips on choosing the right grind, the tastiest beans and practical maintenance advice to help you get the most out of your percolator. That way, you can enjoy a perfect cup of coffee every time!

What is a percolator?

A percolator is a classic coffee maker that has been used for decades to brew rich, strong coffee. The device consists of three parts: a water reservoir at the bottom, a filter basket for the ground coffee and a top chamber where the brewed coffee collects.

When you place the percolator on the hob, the water in the lower chamber heats up. The steam pressure pushes the hot water up through the ground coffee in the filter, after which it drips into the upper chamber as delicious coffee. This process creates a bold flavour similar to espresso, but with a slightly lighter body.

The most well-known percolator is without a doubt the Bialetti Moka Express, an Italian design that’s popular all over the world. It’s no surprise that many people search for the right coffee for Bialetti percolators to get the best possible flavour.

Which coffee in a percolator?

To get the most out of your percolator, it’s important to choose the right coffee. The taste and quality of your cup depend heavily on the grind size and the beans you use.

The perfect grind

A percolator works under pressure, so the grind size plays a crucial role. Go for a medium-coarse grind:

  • Too fine (like espresso grind): This can block the water flow and result in overly strong, bitter coffee.
  • Too coarse (like filter grind): This allows water to pass too quickly, giving you a weak cup.
  • Ideal: A grind slightly finer than filter coffee, but coarser than espresso.

Which type of coffee beans should you use?

Different types of coffee beans work well in a percolator, but you’ll get the best results with:

  • Medium to dark roasted beans: These provide a rich, full flavour without excessive bitterness.
  • 100% Arabica or a blend with Robusta: Arabica offers a smooth, refined taste, while Robusta adds extra caffeine and a creamier texture.
  • Fresh beans: Ideally grind your beans just before brewing to enjoy the most intense aromas.

If you’re specifically looking for coffee for Bialetti percolators, go for an Italian roast. Brands like Lavazza, Illy or Segafredo offer beans that suit this brewing method perfectly.

How to make coffee with a percolator?

Using a percolator is simple, but to make a truly great cup of coffee, there are a few key steps to follow. Stick to this guide and avoid common mistakes!

Step-by-step brewing with a percolator

Fill the water reservoir

Use fresh, cold water and fill the reservoir just below the valve. This prevents excessive pressure build-up.

Add the ground coffee

Use a medium-coarse grind and fill the filter basket to the rim without pressing it down. A grind that’s too fine or tamped coffee can block the flow.

Assemble the percolator and place it on the hob

Screw the percolator together firmly and place it on medium heat. Too much heat can burn the coffee and make it bitter.

Wait for the magic to happen

The water heats up and slowly rises through the coffee. You’ll hear a bubbling sound as the coffee comes through.

Remove the percolator from the heat once bubbling stops

Don’t let it run too long! Once you hear a gurgling sound and the top chamber is filled, take it off the heat.

Stir and serve

Give the coffee in the top chamber a quick stir for an even flavour. Pour into your cup and enjoy!

Common mistakes & tips

  • Use filtered water for a cleaner taste.
  • Grind your beans just before use for the freshest coffee.
  • Rinse the percolator with warm water after use – no soap, as it can affect the flavour!

Follow these steps and you’ll brew a great coffee every time, whether you’re using a Bialetti or another percolator.

How much coffee should you use in a percolator?

The right amount of coffee is key to the taste. Too little makes your coffee weak, while too much can result in a bitter, over-extracted brew.

A good ratio is 1 part coffee to 10 parts water. This means:

  • For a 2-cup percolator: ± 10 grams of coffee (2 tablespoons)
  • For a 4-cup percolator: ± 20 grams of coffee
  • For a 6-cup percolator: ± 30 grams of coffee
  • For a 9-cup percolator: ± 45 grams of coffee

Is percolator coffee unhealthy?

No, not necessarily. If you drink coffee in moderation and use a proper brewing method, percolator coffee is perfectly fine. If you drink a lot of coffee and have high cholesterol, it’s better to alternate with filter coffee.

The best coffee beans for a percolator

Choosing the right coffee beans makes a big difference in flavour. Because a percolator brews coffee in a unique way, it’s important to select beans that suit this method. Below you’ll find our selection of coffee beans for a percolator.

Frequently asked questions about brewing coffee with a percolator
What grind size is best for a percolator?
A medium-coarse grind works best. A grind that’s too fine (like espresso) can make the coffee bitter and clog the percolator, while a grind that’s too coarse will result in weak coffee.
Which coffee beans work best in a percolator?
Medium to dark roasted coffee is ideal. These roasts provide a full, rich flavour that suits the percolator brewing method.
How much coffee and water should I use?
A good rule of thumb is 1 part ground coffee to 10 parts water. For example: for a 6-cup percolator, use about 30–35 grams of coffee and 300–350 ml of water.
Do I need to buy special percolator coffee?
No, but make sure the coffee isn’t ground too finely. Some brands offer pre-ground coffee for percolators, but you can also buy beans and grind them yourself to a medium-coarse consistency.
Can I use a percolator on an induction hob?
That depends on the model. Stainless steel percolators usually work on induction, while aluminium models typically don’t. Check if the base is magnetic or use an induction adapter.