Cold brew coffee has become increasingly popular in recent years, thanks to its smooth, rich flavor and low acidity. If you’re a coffee lover like me, you’ve probably been intrigued by this trendy method of brewing coffee. Today, I will guide you through the process of making cold brew coffee with Hario, a renowned brand known for its quality coffee brewing equipment. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy a delicious cup of cold brew coffee right at home.
Gather Your Supplies
Before you start making cold brew coffee with Hario, it’s important to gather all the necessary supplies. Here’s what you’ll need:
1. Hario V60 Dripper: This cone-shaped dripper is specifically designed for pour-over brewing and is perfect for making cold brew coffee.
2. Hario Paper Filters: These filters ensure a smooth and clean cup of coffee by removing any sediments or oils.
3. Freshly Roasted Coffee Beans: Opt for a medium to coarse grind size, as this allows for a better extraction during the long steeping process.
4. Cold, Filtered Water: The quality of water used affects the taste of your cold brew, so make sure to use clean, filtered water.
5. Measuring Tools: A kitchen scale and a timer will help you measure the right coffee-to-water ratio and time your brewing process accurately.
Grind Your Coffee Beans
To begin the cold brewing process, start by grinding your coffee beans to the desired consistency. For a Hario V60 dripper, a medium to coarse grind size is recommended. The coarser grind allows for a longer extraction time without resulting in a bitter brew. Aim for a consistency similar to sea salt.
Set Up Your Hario Dripper
Once you have your coffee beans ground, it’s time to set up your Hario V60 dripper. Place a paper filter into the dripper and rinse it with hot water to remove any papery taste. This step also preheats the dripper, maintaining a consistent brewing temperature.
Measure Your Coffee and Water
Next, weigh the appropriate amount of coffee grounds based on the coffee-to-water ratio you prefer. Typically, a ratio of 1:7 or 1:8 is recommended for cold brew coffee. For example, if you’re using 40 grams of coffee, you’ll need 280-320 grams of water. Adjust the ratio based on your personal taste preferences.
Brewing Process
Place the rinsed dripper on top of your coffee carafe or vessel. Slowly pour the ground coffee into the dripper, ensuring an even distribution. Gently tap the sides to level the coffee bed.
Once the coffee is in place, it’s time to start the brewing process. Slowly pour a small amount of water (approximately twice the weight of coffee) onto the grounds, just enough to wet them. Allow the coffee to bloom for about 30 seconds. This process allows carbon dioxide to escape and ensures better extraction.
Continue Pouring Water
After the bloom, gradually pour the remaining water in a circular motion, starting from the center and moving outward. Be mindful not to pour too quickly, as it may result in an uneven extraction. Aim for a total brewing time of 3-4 minutes.
Steep and Chill
Once you’ve completed pouring the water, it’s time to let the coffee steep. Cover the container with a lid or cling wrap and place it in the refrigerator for 12-24 hours, depending on your desired strength. The longer the steeping time, the stronger the coffee will be.
During this time, the coffee will slowly infuse the water, resulting in a smooth, full-bodied brew without the typical bitterness associated with hot brewing methods. The cold temperature also reduces the extraction of oils and acids, giving you a less acidic cup of coffee.
Filter and Serve
After the steeping period is complete, remove the container from the refrigerator. Take out the dripper and discard the used coffee grounds. Place a new paper filter inside the dripper and set it over your serving vessel.
Carefully pour the cold brew coffee through the dripper, allowing the paper filter to remove any sediments or fines. The filtered coffee will collect in the vessel, ready to be served over ice or diluted with water according to your taste.
Storing Your Cold Brew
Cold brew coffee can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Pour the remaining cold brew into an airtight container and keep it chilled until ready to drink. This makes it a convenient and time-saving option for busy mornings or when you want a refreshing cup of coffee throughout the week.
Experiment with Flavors
Once you’ve mastered the basic cold brew technique with Hario, feel free to experiment with different flavors and additions. You can add a dash of milk, try different syrups, or even enjoy your cold brew with a scoop of ice cream for a delightful coffee treat.
In conclusion, making cold brew coffee with Hario is a simple and rewarding process. By following this step-by-step guide, you can enjoy a cup of smooth, refreshing cold brew coffee right at home. Remember to keep experimenting and adjusting the brewing parameters to find your perfect cup. So, grab your Hario equipment, freshly roasted coffee beans, and start brewing your own delicious cold brew coffee today!