What is brewing coffee?
Brewed coffee is a type of coffee that is prepared by boiling water with coffee grounds and then filtered to produce a clear, full bodied cup of the popular beverage. Brewing is one of the oldest ways to make coffee and is still one of the most popular methods today. Even with the invention and proliferation of fancier espresso machines and fancier single-serve coffee makers, there still something special about brewing a cup of rich, flavorful coffee.
Brewing Methods
Brewing coffee has many different methods and variations. Some popular methods include:
- Drip Coffee or Filter: This is the most common method for brewing coffee. A filter is filled with ground coffee and placed in a filter basket in the machine. Hot water is run through the grounds to extract the coffee’s flavor.
- French Press: This method utilizes a plunger-style pot and fine ground coffee. Boiling water is added to the grounds and stirred. Once the desired amount of time is up, the plunger-style mesh press is lowered to filter out the coffee grounds and leave the pure flavor of the coffee in the pot.
- Pour Over: Pour over coffee brewing involves pouring hot water over coffee grounds in a filter. The water should be poured slowly to get the best flavor.
- Cold Brew: Cold brew coffee is made by steeping coffee grounds in cold or room temperature water for 8-24 hours. This process results in coffee that is smooth and less acidic due to the lack of heat.
Brewing Techniques
In addition to the different brewing methods that can be used to make coffee there are also a variety of techniques that every barista should learn in order to make the best cup of coffee. Here are a few common brewing techniques:
- Grind Size: Choosing the right grind size is important in getting the most flavor out of your coffee. Finer grinds will extract more quickly than coarser ones, so adjust your grind size according to your brewing method.
- Aerate the Grinds: Before you start brewing, try agitating or aerating your ground coffee. You can do this by using a manual coffee grinder with a spoon or by stirring your grounds with a spoon directly in the delivery vessel. This can help to release carbon dioxide from the grounds, leading to a smoother and less acidic cup of coffee.
- Temp and Time: Brewing time and temperature are important factors for making great coffee. Generally, the water should be between 195-205 degrees Fahrenheit and the brewing time should fall between 2-4 minutes.
Conclusion
Brewing coffee is a time-honored tradition that is still popular today. With so many different methods and techniques out there, it can be difficult to know where to start. But once you learn the basics, you’ll be able to make any cup of coffee your heart desires. So, if you love coffee, take the time to learn a few brewing tips and tricks and enjoy a cup of perfectly brewed coffee!
