Brew guides: How to brew the best coffee
Introduction
Brewing the best coffee can be a subjective matter since different people have different preferences when it comes to taste and strength. However, there are some fundamental steps and tips you can follow to improve your coffee brewing process. Here's a general guide to help you brew a great cup of coffee:
1. Choose high-quality coffee beans:
Start with fresh, high-quality coffee beans. Look for beans that have been roasted recently and are within their ideal freshness window. Take note that coffee needs to rest between 1 to 7 days after roast to achieve optimal flavour. As far as possible, buy whole beans and grind them just before brewing for the freshest flavour.
2. Measure the coffee and water:
Make sure that you use the correct ratio of water to coffee to get the best flavour from the cup of coffee (ratios for the different brew methods are here).
3. Use clean, filtered water:
Fresh, filtered water is essential for brewing coffee. In most cases water will form the biggest part of your coffee, so ensure that the water tastes good. A water pH level of 6.5 to 7.5 is required for good tasting coffee.
4. Use the right water temperature:
The water temperature should be between 90°C to 96°C. If you don't have a thermometer, bring water to a boil and let it cool for about 30 seconds before pouring it over the coffee grounds.
5. Grind your coffee properly and consistently:
The grind size of your coffee grounds should match your brewing method. (Link to grind chart later)
6. Use a clean coffee maker:
Make sure your coffee maker is clean and free of any old coffee residues or oils that can affect the taste of your coffee. Clean it regularly with hot water. Espresso machines and coffee grinders can be cleaned with cleaning powder.
7. Brew time and method:
The ideal brew time depends on your brewing method. Refer to this article for methods.
8. Experiment with water and coffee:
Don't be afraid to adjust the water-to-coffee ratio, grind size, and brewing time to suit your taste. Experimentation can help you find your perfect cup.
Enjoy promptly:
Coffee is best enjoyed immediately after brewing. If you can't drink it right away, transfer it to an insulated thermos to keep it hot and fresh.
Conclusion
Remember that the quality of your coffee also depends on the beans you choose and their freshness. Start with high-quality beans and practice your brewing technique to find the perfect cup for you.