I love coffee. It’s the perfect way to start my day, and I am always on the lookout for new ways to enjoy my morning cup. One method that has caught my attention recently is making cold brew coffee with a Chemex. This refreshing twist on my usual routine has become a game-changer for me. Not only does it produce a smooth and flavorful cup of coffee, but it is also incredibly easy to make. In this article, I will guide you through the process of making cold brew coffee with a Chemex, step by step.
The Basics of Cold Brew Coffee
Before we get into the specifics of using a Chemex, let’s talk about the basics of cold brew coffee. Cold brew coffee is different from the traditional hot brewing methods in that it involves steeping coffee grounds in cold or room temperature water for an extended period, usually around 12-24 hours. The result is a concentrated coffee extract that can be diluted with water or milk to create a refreshing and smooth iced coffee.
Why Choose a Chemex?
There are several ways to make cold brew coffee, but using a Chemex comes with its own set of advantages. The Chemex is a beautifully designed pour-over coffee maker that not only looks elegant but also produces a clean and crisp cup of coffee. Its unique hourglass shape and thick paper filters remove any sediments or oils from the coffee, giving you a smooth and pure caffeine fix.
What You’ll Need
To make cold brew coffee with a Chemex, you’ll need a few things:
1. A Chemex coffee maker: This can be easily purchased online or at most specialty coffee shops.
2. Chemex filters: Make sure to get the right size filters to fit your Chemex size.
3. Coarsely ground coffee: Cold brew coffee requires a coarser grind than hot coffee, so make sure to adjust your grinder accordingly.
4. Cold or room temperature water: Do not use hot water for cold brew coffee; it will result in a bitter taste.
5. A stirring utensil.
6. Optional: ice cubes, milk, sweeteners, or any other additions you prefer for your coffee.
The Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you have everything you need, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making cold brew coffee with a Chemex.
Step 1: Preparing the Chemex
Start by placing a Chemex filter in the upper part of the Chemex. Make sure that the three-layered side of the filter is facing the spout. Rinse the filter with warm water to remove any paper taste and preheat the glass vessel.
Step 2: Adding Coffee and Water
Measure out your desired amount of coarsely ground coffee. A good starting point is using a ratio of 1:8, coffee to water. You can adjust this according to your taste preferences. Place the coffee grounds into the filter-lined Chemex.
Pour cold or room temperature water over the coffee grounds, making sure to saturate all of the coffee evenly. Use a stirring utensil to ensure that the coffee is fully immersed in water.
Step 3: Steeping Time
Once you have added the water, it’s time for the magic to happen. Place the Chemex in your refrigerator or on your kitchen countertop and let it steep for 12-24 hours. The longer you steep, the stronger and more concentrated your cold brew coffee will be.
Step 4: Filtering the Coffee
After the steeping time is up, carefully remove the Chemex from the refrigerator or countertop. Slowly lift the filter, making sure to let any excess liquid drain back into the Chemex. Once you have removed the filter, you can discard it, along with the coffee grounds.
Step 5: Diluting and Serving
Now that you have your concentrated coffee extract, it’s time to dilute it to your desired strength. Fill a glass with ice cubes and pour the cold brew coffee over it. You can adjust the ratio of coffee to water or milk according to your taste preferences. If you prefer a sweeter cup, you can also add any sweeteners at this point.
Experiment and Enjoy!
Congratulations, you have successfully made cold brew coffee with a Chemex! Now, it’s time to sit back, relax, and enjoy your refreshing and smooth cup of coffee. Feel free to experiment with different ratios, brewing times, or even coffee bean types to find your perfect cold brew concoction.
Remember, cold brew coffee can be refrigerated for several days, so you can make a larger batch and enjoy it throughout the week. It’s a fantastic option for those warm summer mornings or as a midday pick-me-up when you need a refreshing caffeine boost.
So, if you’re looking to add a twist to your morning cup of coffee, I highly recommend trying out cold brew coffee with a Chemex. Its simplicity, elegance, and delicious results make it a winning combination. Cheers to a new and refreshing coffee experience!