Cold brew coffee has become increasingly popular in recent years, thanks to its smooth and rich flavor. Unlike traditional coffee that requires heat to extract the flavors, cold brew is made by steeping coffee grounds in cold water for an extended period of time, usually overnight. The result is a delicious, low-acid drink that can be enjoyed hot or cold. While cold brew can be served straight from a pitcher, kegging it offers several advantages, such as convenience and the ability to serve it on tap. In this article, I will guide you through the process of kegging your own cold brew coffee.
Gather the Equipment
Before you begin, it’s essential to gather all the necessary equipment for kegging cold brew coffee. Here are some items you will need:
1. Cold Brew Coffee
Start by brewing a batch of cold brew coffee using your preferred method. The general ratio for cold brew is one part coffee grounds to four parts water. However, feel free to adjust the ratio based on your taste preferences.
2. Keg
Next, you will need a keg to store and serve your cold brew coffee. A Cornelius keg, also known as a corny keg, is a popular choice among coffee enthusiasts. These kegs are made of stainless steel and are built to withstand pressure, making them perfect for holding carbonated beverages like cold brew.
3. CO2 Cylinder and Regulator
To carbonate your cold brew coffee, you will need a CO2 cylinder and regulator. The CO2 cylinder contains pressurized carbon dioxide that will carbonate your cold brew when connected to the keg. The regulator allows you to control the pressure and flow of the gas.
4. Carbonation Lid or Stone
A carbonation lid or stone is used to distribute the carbon dioxide evenly throughout the keg. This process helps carbonate your cold brew coffee efficiently. Both options work well, so choose the one that best suits your setup and preferences.
5. Cold Brew Tap System
To serve your kegged cold brew coffee on tap, you will need a cold brew tap system. These systems are specifically designed for dispensing cold brew and ensure a smooth pour with minimal sediment.
6. Refrigeration System
Lastly, you will need a refrigeration system to keep your keg of cold brew coffee chilled. This can be achieved with a kegerator, a dedicated refrigerator, or a cooling coil installed inside the keg.
Sanitize Your Equipment
Once you have gathered all the necessary equipment, it’s crucial to sanitize everything before use. Sanitization helps prevent the growth of bacteria and ensures that your cold brew coffee remains fresh and safe to consume.
Start by cleaning your keg with warm, soapy water. Rinse it thoroughly to remove any residue. Next, sanitize all the keg components, including the lid, dip tube, and connectors, using a food-grade sanitizer. Follow the instructions provided by the sanitizer manufacturer for the appropriate contact time.
Similarly, sanitize your CO2 cylinder, regulator, and any other equipment that will come into contact with your cold brew coffee. Pay close attention to the cleanliness of the cold brew tap system, as any residue or bacteria can affect the taste and quality of your final product.
Transfer Cold Brew Coffee to the Keg
Now that your equipment is sanitized and ready, it’s time to transfer your cold brew coffee to the keg. Follow these steps:
1. Place the keg on a stable surface and remove the lid.
2. Using a funnel, carefully pour your prepared cold brew coffee into the keg, leaving some headspace at the top.
3. Once the keg is filled, securely seal the lid, ensuring it is airtight.
4. Connect the carbonation lid or stone to the keg’s gas inlet post, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Attach the gas line from the CO2 cylinder to the carbonation lid or stone.
6. Adjust the regulator to the recommended pressure for carbonating cold brew, usually around 10-15 PSI (pounds per square inch).
7. Place the keg in your refrigeration system or a cool place, away from direct sunlight.
Carbonate and Refrigerate Your Cold Brew Coffee
After transferring your cold brew coffee to the keg, it’s time to carbonate it and let it chill. Here’s what you need to do:
1. Turn on the CO2 cylinder to release the gas into the keg.
2. Shake or gently roll the keg to allow the carbon dioxide to mix with the cold brew coffee. This process helps accelerate carbonation.
3. Let the keg sit for 24 to 48 hours, allowing the cold brew coffee to carbonate fully. Carbonation times may vary depending on personal preference and desired level of carbonation.
4. After carbonating, reduce the pressure to serving pressure to avoid over-carbonation.
5. Place the keg back in your refrigeration system to maintain a chilled temperature.
Serve Your Cold Brew Coffee on Tap
Once your kegged cold brew coffee is carbonated and chilled, it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Follow these steps to serve it on tap:
1. Connect the cold brew tap system to the keg’s liquid out post, ensuring a tight seal.
2. Open the tap faucet or handle to allow the cold brew coffee to flow.
3. Fill a glass or container with your freshly kegged cold brew.
4. Adjust the tap system as needed to control the flow and prevent excessive foaming.
5. Enjoy your smooth and flavorful cold brew coffee, either straight or with the addition of milk, cream, or your favorite sweeteners.
Maintaining Your Kegged Cold Brew Coffee
To keep your kegged cold brew coffee fresh and tasty, it’s essential to properly maintain it. Here are a few tips:
1. Clean Regularly
Regularly cleaning your keg, lines, and tap system is crucial to prevent any residue buildup or off-flavors. Disassemble the tap system and soak the parts in a cleaning solution specifically designed for coffee equipment. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and rinse thoroughly before reassembling.
2. Rotate Stock
If you keg large quantities of cold brew coffee, make sure to rotate your stock to ensure you’re serving the freshest batches. As a general guideline, consume kegged cold brew within two weeks to enjoy its optimal flavor and quality.
3. Monitor Carbonation
Keep an eye on the carbonation level of your cold brew coffee. If the carbonation seems to be dwindling, check for any gas leaks or issues with your CO2 cylinder or regulator. Adjust the pressure as needed to maintain the desired carbonation level.
4. Store Properly
Store your kegged cold brew coffee in a cool place, preferably in a dedicated refrigeration system. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight or excessive heat, as it can affect the taste and quality of your cold brew.
By following these steps and guidelines, you can easily keg your own cold brew coffee and enjoy the convenience of having it on tap. Experiment with different brewing methods, ratios, and flavors to find your perfect cup of kegged cold brew. So, grab your equipment, gather some coffee grounds, and get ready to savor the smooth richness of kegged cold brew coffee. Cheers!