Brewing coffee with a French press is a delightful and straightforward process.
Follow these simple steps for a rich and flavourful cup of coffee:
Ingredients:
Coarsely ground coffee beans
Hot water just off the boil
Equipment:
French press
Stirring utensil
Timer
Step-by-Step Guide:
Prepare the Coffee Beans:
Use high-quality, coarsely ground coffee beans. Aim for a medium to coarse grind to prevent over-extraction during brewing.
Measure Coffee:
Use 16 grams of coffee grounds for every 250 grams of water.
Boil Water:
Heat water to just below boiling, around 93°C. This temperature ensures optimal extraction without scalding the coffee.
Preheat the French Press:
Pour a small amount of hot water into the French press to preheat it. Swirl the water around and then discard it.
Add Coffee Grounds:
Place the coarsely ground coffee into the preheated French press.
Pour Hot Water:
Slowly pour the hot water over the coffee grounds, ensuring all the grounds are saturated. Start with a small amount and allow the coffee to bloom for about 30 seconds.
Stir and Let Bloom:
Gently stir the coffee-water mixture with a wooden or plastic utensil to ensure even saturation. Allow the coffee to bloom for another 30 seconds.
Add Remaining Water:
Pour the remaining hot water into the French press. Place the lid on the press with the plunger pulled all the way up.
Steep:
Let the coffee steep for about 4 minutes. Adjust the steeping time based on your preference for a stronger or milder brew.
Plunge:
After the steeping time, slowly press the plunger down. Apply even pressure to avoid over-extraction.
Serve:
Pour the freshly brewed coffee into your favourite mug and enjoy! Add milk, cream, sugar, or any other desired additions to suit your taste.
Now, you’re ready to savour a delicious cup of French press coffee.
(Experiment with every part of this basic recipe to find the perfect brew for your palate.)