French Press (Cafetiere) Brew Guide
The French Press, also known as a Cafetière, is a classic full-immersion coffee brewer and arguably one of the simplest coffee-making devices in existence. While it may not always receive the spotlight in today’s world of coffee gadgets, it remains a staple in many households worldwide and has the potential to produce exceptional results with some attention.
This method of brewing is remarkably forgiving and particularly well-suited for preparing coffee in larger quantities, making it an ideal choice for hosting gatherings. If you wish to adjust the coffee’s strength, you can experiment with the coffee-to-water ratio. Some coffees may require a bit more, while others may need a bit less to achieve the desired taste.
French Presses excel at enhancing the natural sweetness of coffee. The extended contact time between coffee grounds and water during brewing results in a rich, sweet flavour profile. This quality makes it perfect for those who enjoy adding a touch of milk to their coffee, as the brew’s strength won’t be overshadowed by the milk, allowing the coffee’s sweetness to shine through.
French Press Coffee Recipe (Serves 1 cup):
- 16 grams of medium to coarsely ground coffee
- 240 millilitres of freshly boiled water
- Recommended brew time is 4 minutes
Method:
- Add the medium to coarsely ground coffee into the bottom of the pre-heated French Press.
- Quickly pour the desired amount of water into the French Press, adjusting the quantity based on your preferred batch size.
- Give the coffee and water mixture a thorough stir and leave it uncovered to brew for the recommended 4 minutes.
- After the brewing time, attach the plunger and slowly press it down into the bottom of the French Press.
- For optimal results, let the brewed coffee sit for an additional 5 to 10 minutes after plunging. This allows any small coffee particles to settle at the bottom, contributing to a sweeter taste.
- When serving, pour the entire brew into a separate serving vessel before distributing it into cups, ensuring a consistent and delightful coffee experience.
