Using an Aeropress is a great technique, especially when you’re on the move or simply want a single cup of coffee at a time. However, if you’re planning on more than a single cup – or want something a little richer, a French Press is the way to go.
I have an Espro French Press which allows the coffee to avoid getting bitter after a plunge and sitting for a while. Certainly not inexpensive, it is worth every single penny spent on it. You can get a French Press suitable for whatever budget you are comfortable with.
Here’s a simple guide on how to brew coffee using a French press:
- Heat Water: Fill a kettle with water and heat it until it reaches about 200°F.
- Grind Beans: Measure out 50g of coffee beans and grind them to a coarse consistency.
- Prepare French Press: Assemble the French press and add the ground coffee.
- Add Water: Pour the hot water over the coffee grounds and stir gently to ensure that all the coffee is saturated. Let the coffee steep for 4 minutes.
- Plunge: Slowly press down on the plunger to separate the coffee grounds from the liquid. This should take about 30 seconds.
- Pour: Pour the brewed coffee into a mug and enjoy!
Why use a French press to brew coffee?
A French press is a great choice for coffee lovers who want to extract the full flavor and aroma of the coffee beans. The metal or nylon mesh filter of a French press allows the coffee’s oils and flavors to remain in the final cup, providing a rich and full-bodied taste. The steeping process also allows for a longer extraction time, allowing for the coffee’s full flavor profile to develop. Additionally, the French press is very easy to use and clean, making it a popular choice for home brewers.