How to Use a Coffee Press
What is a Coffee Press?
A coffee press is a time-tested method of brewing coffee. As a simple yet elegant coffee brewing device, it has garnished global acclaim for its capacity to produce a rich, full-bodied cup of coffee. It goes by various names, from French press, plunger coffee to press pot
The appeal of the coffee press lies primarily in its uncomplicated, non-electric design and the superior flavour extraction it provides. Because it allows for complete immersion of the coffee grounds in water, it extracts more flavours than most other brewing methods. This method also permits natural oils and fine particles from the coffee grounds to infuse into the brew, contributing to a robust, complex taste that is often lost in paper-filter methods.
For those in the pursuit of the perfect cup of coffee, a coffee press is an essential coffee accessory.
Steps on How to Use a Coffee Press
- The first step involves boiling water, which will be used to steep the coffee grounds.
- While your water is heating, you can add your coffee grounds into the coffee press. A general rule of thumb is to use one tablespoon of coffee for every 120ml of water, though this can be adjusted to personal preference. It may also vary depending on the coffee grounds used.
- Once your water has boiled, let it cool for about a minute before pouring it into the coffee press. Make sure to saturate evenly across the coffee grounds. Let the brew steep for about four to five minutes - longer if you prefer a stronger taste. This is an essential step as the time allows for the extraction of the coffee's full flavour potential.
- After the steeping time has passed, gently press down the plunger. This will separate the spent coffee grounds from the brewed coffee. Now, your coffee is ready to serve and enjoy.
You can also explore different types of coffee presses like the Delter Coffee Press from Margaret River Roasting Company. This Australian made aeropress uses a unique jet-seal that keeps the brew water and the coffee grounds separated until the brew commences, preventing uncontrolled agitation.
Do You Need Special Coffee for a Coffee Press?
The beauty of the coffee press is its versatility. While no specific type of coffee is required, there are certain factors to consider which can impact the taste of your brew.
First, the grind size. Coffee presses perform best with a coarse grind size. A fine grind can slip through the filter and result in a muddy, over-extracted brew. Many coffee professionals recommend using freshly ground coffee, as coffee beans start to lose flavour as soon as they're ground.
As for the type of coffee, choose whatever variety delights your palate – light roasts, dark roasts, single origins or blends. Many coffee enthusiasts recommend using medium to dark roast coffees, which are traditionally used in coffee presses. These types of roasts tend to produce a robust and full-bodied cup of coffee, perfect for the immersion brewing method of a coffee press.
For quality coffee, browse our range for the best selection of freshly roasted premium coffees in Margaret River.
