Many find that they need a cup of coffee to get going in the morning. Some even prefer a piping hot cup midday or in the evening. Drinking coffee has become a favorite pastime for many and a habit that a great deal of the population can’t quit. There are many things to keep in mind when brewing a great cup of coffee. If you enjoy a strong brew, the french press is a great method for you to try. Brewing french press coffee is sure to deliver a strong enjoyable dose of caffeine no matter what time of day you consume it. This article will discuss 3 tricks to improving your french press coffee brew.
- Use a scale to measure your coffee and water. It is common practice to measure coffee on a scale to ensure that you are using just the right amount per cup. Many think that measuring their water by using the carafe markings is good enough when in actuality measuring your water and then making sure it is the right amount by checking it on the scale can make all the difference in the strength of your coffee. Be sure to use high-quality water as well. Using regular tap water is fine if you do not care about the strength and great flavor of your coffee. However, if you want full flavor, be sure to use high-quality water that is filtered or bottled. This seems simple and inconsequential but it will make a difference.
- Invest in a great grinder. If you purchase a good grinder, you can be sure that every grind is consistent and you won’t have to worry about a mixture of grind sizes. This is important as the grind size can impact the extraction process. While many choose electric grinders as they are the easiest to use, using a burr grinder will produce the best results. For french press, you want to be sure to grind the coffee in the medium-coarse or coarse grind size. The sizing is important as it can create a thicker cup of coffee if the grinds do not press properly.
- Hot water, not boiling water is best. Some think that they need to boil the water to brew a cup of great french press coffee when in actuality, the key is using hot water. For consistency, you can always use a thermometer to make sure that the water temperature is between 195-205 degrees Fahrenheit.
If you are new to french press brewing, be patient. As with anything, it takes the time to get the hang of a process in which you are unfamiliar. Experiment with different strengths until you find the best taste for your pallet. In addition, there are other tips to keep in mind when using your french press such as let the coffee sit for a bit before pouring your first cup, be sure to empty every last drop of coffee out of the carafe after pressing, and always cleaning the press after use. If you follow these simple tips, you will consistently enjoy a great french press brew.
