Coffee Brewing Methods

The proper brewing temperature is key to a great cup of coffee, many professionals will recommend brewing temperatures between 195 degrees to 205 degrees. The most common brewing methods for coffee include;

 

Drip Maker- A traditional drip maker is the most common brewing method for coffee. Coffee is placed into a brewer basket with a paper filter and then heated water is sprayed onto the coffee grounds allowing the coffee to drip into a lower carafe.  This method usually produces a consistent and convenient cup of coffee however the temperature of the brewer usually can’t be adjusted and it may compromise the flavor of the coffee if your brewer is not set to the proper temperature so be sure to choose a reputable company when choosing a drip maker.

 

French Press–hot water is heated with a kettle to proper temperature and then poured over grounds into the glass carafe. It is allowed to steep for several minutes and then a plunger with a filter screen is depressed to the bottom of the carafe and the coffee is poured into a cup. Since you can control the temperature of the water and the steep time you can bring out the best flavor of the coffee. The drawback to this method is you need to use coarse ground coffee or else fine particles may not be filtered out by the screen and will remain in your coffee. Learn how to use a french press here. 

 

AeroPress– Similar to a French press, water is heated to the proper temperature with a kettle and poured into a carafe containing the grounds and a small paper filter. When the plunger is depressed, air helps push the coffee through the filer and into a coffee cup placed below. This method is ideal for brewing as you can control the temperature and steep time. It is also convenient for use while traveling.

 

Pour Over- water is heated to proper temperature with a kettle and then is poured over a filter and grounds into a funnel shaped cup and allowed to drip slowly directly into a coffee cup.  This method is also ideal for brewing a good cup of coffee as you can control the temperature and steep time. Learn how to make a pour over here. 

 

 

Chemex– A different type of pour over device which was invented by a chemist in the 1940’s hence the name, Chemex. Hot water is poured onto the coffee grounds and the coffee is allowed to bloom before a second pouring is performed. Learn more about the chemex brewing method as well as tips and tricks here. 

 

Espresso Machine– Precisely measured, finely ground coffee is added to a portafilter, tamped using a tamper tool into a “puck” shape and loaded into the espresso machine. The espresso machine uses measured bars pressure to force heated water quickly though the portafilter over a period of 25-30 seconds (based on a double shot). This produces a rich crema layer on the top of the shot of espresso. The end result is a very concentrated amount of coffee with a unique strong and bold flavor (different that traditional brewed) which is often added to drinks such as lattes and americanos.

 

Keurig– A prefilled coffee pod is placed into the machine and hot water is forced through a filtered pod and into a coffee cup. The quality of the coffee is lesser due to the plastic packaging and the inconsistent water temperature.

 

Cold Brew- Coarsely ground coffee is allowed to steep overnight for 16-20 hours. The coffee grounds are removed and then the brew served over ice. Learn how to make cold brew coffee with our cold brew recipe here.

 

In addition to these common methods, there are also specialty methods for brewing coffee. If you have a question about a brewing method, feel free to contact us.

Try our FRESH roasted coffees today and taste the difference.