Making Chemex coffee is an art that allows you to enjoy the perfect cup of joe every morning. The Chemex brewing method has gained popularity in recent years due to its simplicity and ability to bring out the vibrant flavors of coffee beans. If you’re a coffee enthusiast like me, you’ve probably heard of Chemex and its unique brewing technique. From the moment I set my eyes on that elegant hourglass-shaped glass vessel, I was captivated. In this article, I will guide you through the steps of making Chemex coffee and recommend some informative YouTube tutorials that will help you master this brewing method.
Why Choose Chemex Coffee?
Superior Taste and Clarity
One of the main reasons why coffee lovers adore Chemex is its ability to produce a clean and smooth cup of coffee. The thick filter used in Chemex brewing removes any sediment or oils, resulting in a cup that is free of bitterness. This method brings out the subtle flavors and nuances of your chosen coffee beans, allowing you to fully appreciate the complexities of the brew.
Sturdy and Elegant Design
Apart from its exceptional brewing capability, the Chemex coffee maker stands out with its elegant and timeless design. The hourglass shape, the wooden collar, and the leather tie make it a perfect addition to any kitchen aesthetic. With its borosilicate glass construction, the Chemex is not only visually appealing but also durable.
Customizable Brewing
The Chemex brewing method gives you control over the brewing process, allowing you to adjust variables such as grind size, water temperature, and brew time according to your preference. This level of control ensures that you can fine-tune your cup of coffee to perfection, tailoring it to your personal taste.
The Chemex Brewing Process
What You’ll Need
Before diving into the brewing process, make sure you have the necessary tools and ingredients. Here is a list of what you’ll need:
1. Chemex coffee maker
2. Chemex bonded filter
3. Freshly roasted coffee beans
4. Burr grinder
5. Gooseneck kettle
6. Digital scale
7. Timer
8. Hot water
Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you have everything ready, it’s time to start brewing your Chemex coffee. Follow these steps:
1. Begin by boiling water in your gooseneck kettle. The ideal water temperature for brewing coffee with Chemex is around 200°F (93°C).
2. While the water is heating, prepare your coffee beans. Grind them to a medium-coarse consistency, similar to the texture of sea salt. This grind size ensures proper extraction without over-extracting or under-extracting the coffee.
3. Place the Chemex bonded filter in the brewer, ensuring that the side with three layers is placed towards the spout. Rinse the filter with hot water to remove any paper taste and preheat the glass vessel. Discard the rinse water.
4. Add the ground coffee into the filter. The general rule of thumb is to use 1 tablespoon of coffee per 5 ounces of water, but you can adjust this ratio to suit your taste.
5. Once the water has reached the desired temperature, begin the brewing process. Start by saturating the coffee grounds with a small amount of water, just enough to cover the grounds. Allow it to bloom for about 30 seconds.
6. After the bloom, slowly pour the remaining hot water in a circular motion over the coffee, ensuring an even extraction. Take your time and maintain a steady pour, allowing the water to filter through the grounds and into the Chemex.
7. Once all the water has filtered through, remove the filter and discard it. You’re now ready to pour yourself a delicious cup of Chemex coffee.
Learning from YouTube Tutorials
If you prefer visual learning, YouTube tutorials can be a great resource to master the art of making Chemex coffee. Here are three tutorials that I found particularly helpful:
1. Title: “Chemex Brewing Guide: The Perfect Cup of Coffee”
YouTuber: CoffeeCupNews
Summary: This tutorial covers the basics of Chemex brewing, from the brewing ratios to the pouring technique. The host explains each step clearly and provides useful tips for beginners.
2. Title: “How to Use a Chemex Coffee Maker”
YouTuber: James Hoffmann
Summary: James Hoffmann, a well-known figure in the coffee industry, guides you through the Chemex brewing process in detail. He dives deeper into the science behind brewing and helps you understand the variables that influence the taste of your coffee.
3. Title: “How to Brew Chemex Coffee”
YouTuber: Stumptown Coffee Roasters
Summary: Stumptown Coffee Roasters takes you through a step-by-step brewing demonstration, emphasizing the importance of maintaining consistency throughout the process. This tutorial is perfect for those who appreciate a thorough visual guide.
Conclusion
Making Chemex coffee is an enjoyable and rewarding experience that allows you to create a cup of coffee with unparalleled taste and clarity. The simplicity of the brewing process, coupled with the ability to customize variables, makes Chemex a favorite among coffee enthusiasts. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to fine-tune your brewing skills, the YouTube tutorials mentioned above will aid you in your journey to becoming a Chemex coffee pro. So, grab your Chemex coffee maker, quality coffee beans, and get ready to embark on the art of brewing the perfect cup of Chemex coffee.