For generations, some coffee lovers have relied on a surprisingly simple kitchen trick to make coffee taste smoother: adding a tiny pinch of salt to the grounds before brewing. It may sound unusual, but in very small amounts, salt can reduce the perception of bitterness and allow some of the coffee’s other flavors to stand out more clearly.

The key is moderation. You are not trying to make salty coffee, so only a tiny pinch is needed for a pot or serving. Mix it directly into the coffee grounds before brewing, or experiment with an extremely small amount in an already prepared cup. Start with less than you think you need, since too much salt can quickly change the flavor in an unpleasant way.

Salt is just one of many traditional ways to customize coffee. Cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg, cocoa, and vanilla can add different aromas and flavors, while reducing the need for extra sugar. If your coffee regularly tastes bitter, however, the issue may have more to do with the beans, grind size, water temperature, or brewing time.

The beauty of these old-fashioned kitchen tricks is that they often come with memories attached. A small adjustment to a morning cup can remind someone of a parent, grandparent, or family tradition that made ordinary moments feel special. Sometimes the simplest recipes become meaningful because of the people who taught us how to make them.

So, if your coffee tastes a little too bitter, you might try Grandma’s old trick and add the tiniest pinch of salt. It costs almost nothing and takes only a moment to test. You may discover that the secret to a smoother cup was hiding in your kitchen all along—and perhaps create a new coffee tradition of your own.