Making Chemex coffee is an art that requires patience and skill. It’s the perfect option for those who prefer a light-bodied cup of coffee that’s full of flavor. To make your own Chemex coffee, you’ll need a few pieces of specialized equipment, like a Chemex brewer and filter, freshly roasted beans, and a scale. You’ll also need some water and a heat source. To get started, follow these steps.
Grind the Coffee Beans
The first step in the Chemex-brewing process is to grind the coffee beans. The beans should be ground to a medium-coarse size, which is slightly larger than what you would use for a drip-brewed cup. A burr grinder is ideal for getting a consistent grind size, but a blade grinder will work as well. The key is to use the same size for each batch of coffee that you brew, so you can replicate the same flavor profile.
Prepare the Filter
Once the beans are ground, you’ll need to prepare the filter. Place the filter in the Chemex brewer, making sure that the three-layered side is facing down. If the filter has a tab, make sure it is facing the spout of the brewer. Then, rinse the filter with hot water. This will help remove any impurities that may be present, as well as preheat the brewer.
Add the Grounds
Once the filter is ready, it’s time to add the grounds. Use a scale to measure out the desired amount of grounds. As a general rule, you’ll want to use about 16 grams of grounds for every 8 ounces of water. Once you have the correct amount, add the grounds to the filter and give it a gentle shake to level the grounds.
Pour the Hot Water
Once the grounds are in the filter, it’s time to start pouring the hot water. Start by pouring a small amount of water over the grounds, just enough to saturate them. This is known as the bloom and helps to release the coffee’s aromas and flavors. Once the bloom has finished, start pouring the rest of the water in a slow, circular motion. This should take around 3-4 minutes to complete.
Wait for the Coffee to Finish Brewing
Once you’ve poured all the water, let the coffee brew for about 5 minutes. The brewing time will depend on the amount of grounds and water that you used, as well as the grind size. Once the desired brewing time has passed, remove the filter from the brewer and discard the grounds.
Pour and Enjoy
Once the brewing is complete, it’s time to pour the coffee into your favorite mug and enjoy. You can also add milk or sugar to your coffee, depending on your preference. If you want to make more than one cup, you can easily double or triple the amount of grounds and water that you use.
Conclusion
Making Chemex coffee is a fun and rewarding process. With the right equipment and a bit of practice, you can make a delicious cup of coffee every time. Just remember to use freshly roasted beans, grind the beans to a medium-coarse size, prepare the filter before adding the grounds, and pour the water slowly in a circular motion. Once the brewing is complete, pour into your favorite mug and enjoy!