Who doesn’t like a cup of freshly brewed coffee? There are many different types of brewing methods, and if you’re new to this topic, you might be a little anxious about what method is best for you.
Let’s talk about the most popular brewing method and their effects on the coffee flavor and experience so you can easily identify which suits your taste the most.
French Press
Let’s start with the classic French press. The French press vessel is easy to use and produces a brew with a distinct taste and feel like no other method.
This brewing method is best for you if:
- You prefer a bold coffee taste. The extraction takes about 10 minutes, resulting in an oily, bold taste.
- You want to take your time. As mentioned, you’ll be spending roughly 10 minutes preparing your coffee. Don’t worry; it’s worth the wait.
- You want an easy brewing method. Everything you need is in the French press mug. Just make sure to choose coarse coffee grounds, so you don’t get sediments when you pour the coffee into your cup.
Espresso Machine
Whether you work on a night shift or you need that extra coffee kick in the morning, an espresso machine will be your friend.
Espresso machines come in many styles, and they can be cheap or expensive. If you’re after artisan coffee, you can try a lever espresso machine. On the other hand, opt for an automatic espresso machine if you want to get your cup of joe quicker and with less effort.
An espresso maker is the one for you if:
- You love lattes or beverages that require a sharp hint of coffee.
- You like your coffee strong and bold.
- You want it quick and easy. Depending on your machine, making espresso can take just a couple of seconds.
Pour-Over Method
This brewing method produces coffee with a smooth and delicate texture. It’s a pretty straightforward process. You just pour water over your freshly ground beans placed in a filter. This makes it great for single-origin coffee as it allows the flavor and aroma to shine.
The pour-over method is best for you if:
- You’re after flavor and satisfaction than simply a pick-me-up drink. Pour-over coffee has a rich taste.
- You’re a coffee aficionado. Getting the perfect cup using this method takes skill and mastery.
Aeropress
An Aeropress is an immersion brew method that uses finely ground coffee. You brew the coffee for a short time, and the pressure produced from plunging creates a strong flavor similar to espresso.
An Aeropress is a versatile machine that lets you brew coffee for different drinks, from espresso-style coffee to iced or cold brew. This method is right for you if:
- You prefer a strong coffee.
- You want a handy coffee-maker that you can take anywhere.
Cold Brew Method
The cold brew method is a must-try if you like your coffee cold and refreshing. It’s a simple brewing method, but it involves plenty of waiting. To extract the flavor, you have to immerse ground coffee in water for eight to 12 hours.
You’ll love this brewing method if:
- You want a flavorful coffee that refreshes you in the summertime or any time of the year.
- You don’t mind waiting. You can prepare the beans the night before, so you have a delicious cold brew the next day.
Brewing Tips at Home
Regardless of the brewing method you choose, below are some tips to help you make a delicious cup each time.
Use Fresh, Whole Beans
Avoid pre-ground coffee and switch to whole beans instead because they have the best flavor and aroma. The thing is, processing coffee removes up to 70 percent of the aromatic compounds that contribute to the coffee’s flavor.
Of course, you need a good burr grinder to make a delicious coffee drink at home using whole beans. Only grind beans that you will use immediately.
Take note, however, that different brewing methods require different grind sizes. Make sure you’re getting the right grind size for your preferred method.
Use the Right Amount of Coffee
The amount of coffee you need depends on how much water you will use to brew and how strong or weak you want your cup to be. The more coffee you use, the stronger the cup, and vice versa.
A good ratio is about 1:12 or 35 grams of coffee to 400 grams of water. It’s best to use a scale so you can get the exact measurement for your brew.
Use Filtered Water
Lastly, pay attention to the water you use. Since about 98.5% of your brewed coffee is made of water, you want to use purified water or filtered water.
The Right Brewing Method for You
Choosing the right brewing method depends on several factors, such as the coffee strength and flavor, your skills, and how much time you can allocate. Remember to try out the tips and suggestions above the next time you brew.