Mommy Ramblings

The familiar French press coffee pot may not have the same following as the pour-over coffee method, but that glass carafe cradled in chrome is one of the best ways to brew coffee at home. Well, of course, great brewed coffee is only possible, if you do it right. In that case, you should follow this step-by-step guide to brewing your perfect cup of coffee.

#1. Start With a Coarse Grind

Brewing with a French press is fundamentally different from a pour-over method. With pour-overs, the water passes through a filter, but with the press, the ground coffee actually steeps in the water. Since your water and coffee are going to be hanging out for a while, start with a very coarse grind—the grounds should resemble breadcrumbs. Any finer and you will end up with a cup of bitter, undrinkable coffee.

#2. Fill the Carafe Halfway and Wait

When the water reaches a boil, take the kettle off the heat and let it cool for 30 seconds. Now your water is ready; time for your first pour. Fill the carafe to the halfway point. (This first saturation is known as the “bloom,”and it ensures your coffee will not be too weak or too bitter.) Put down the kettle and set a kitchen timer to four minutes. It is important to not rush the process when using a French press coffee maker.

#3. After 60 Seconds, Stir the Grounds with a Spoon

While you are waiting, you might want to do something else. You can check Twitter, text your mom, or just think about how great this coffee is going to be. After 60 seconds, use a spoon to break up the cake-y layer of grounds that has formed on top of the water. Fill the carafe to the top with water, using a circular pouring method to soak all the grounds. Place the lid on the press, but resist the temptation to plunge immediately.

#4. When the Timer’s Done, Plunge

Once the timer hits the four-minute mark, it is time to plunge. The press should not offer too much resistance, but make sure the mesh filter is lowered evenly.

#5. That Is It—Great Coffee

And, well, that is it. Pour out your perfectly brewed French press coffee immediately into mugs or a serving vessel, as any additional time spent in the carafe will continue the brewing process. We hope you try this French press coffee maker guide.

This is a collaborative guest post, the views and ideas expressed do not necessarily represent those of Mommy Ramblings.