By Mary Lage
Hot coffee season is upon us, (or iced coffee all year round we don’t judge). When it comes to enjoying coffee, there are countless methods and techniques to explore. But one method that stands out for its simplicity, and versatility is the French press. Whether you're in the mood for a steaming hot cup of joe to kickstart your day or a refreshing cold brew to drink on your way to work or class, the French press can do it all. Follow along as we delve into the art of brewing both hot and cold coffee using a French press.
Hot French Press Coffee
The French press, also known as a press pot or plunger pot, is renowned for producing a rich and full-bodied hot coffee. Here's how you can brew a delightful cup using this classic method:
Ingredients and Tools:
Coarsely ground coffee beans
Freshly boiled water
A French press
A stirring stick
A timer
Instructions:
Begin by heating your water. Boil it and let it sit for a minute or two to cool slightly, as boiling water can scorch the coffee grounds, resulting in a bitter taste.
While the water is cooling, add your coarsely ground coffee to the French press. A general rule of thumb is to use 1 ounce (about 28 grams) of coffee for every 16 ounces (about 475 ml) of water.
Once the water reaches the ideal temperature, pour it over the coffee grounds, ensuring that all the grounds are saturated. Start a timer for four minutes.
Place the lid on the French press, but do not press down the plunger just yet. Allow the coffee to steep for the entire four minutes.
After four minutes have passed, gently press down the plunger. This separates the coffee grounds from the liquid, leaving you with a rich and robust cup of hot coffee.
Pour your coffee into your favorite mug and enjoy! Feel free to customize it with milk, sugar, or any other flavorings to suit your taste. Some of our popular flavors for hot coffee include our Badass Brew, our Good Morning Brew, or our Costa Rica Rio Negro.
Cold Brew with a French Press
Cold brew coffee is perfect for those sweltering summer days or when you want a smoother, less acidic coffee experience. The French press makes cold brew surprisingly easy to prepare:
Ingredients and Tools:
Coarsely ground coffee beans (Our Cold Brew Blend Recommended)
Cold, filtered water
A French press
A stirring stick
A timer
Instructions:
Add coarsely ground coffee to your French press. The coffee-to-water ratio for cold brew is generally 1:8, meaning 1 ounce of coffee to 8 ounces of water. Adjust the quantity based on your press's size and the strength you desire.
Pour cold, filtered water over the coffee grounds, ensuring all the grounds are soaked.
Stir the mixture gently to ensure even saturation. Place the lid on the French press, but do not press down the plunger.
Let the coffee steep in the refrigerator or on the counter for 12-24 hours. This extended steeping time allows the flavors to fully develop.
After the steeping time is complete, gently press down the plunger to separate the coffee grounds from the liquid.
Pour the cold brew concentrate into a glass, and then dilute it with water or milk, depending on your preference. Add ice cubes, sweeteners, or flavorings to customize your cold brew just the way you like it.
Or, for a "hot" cold brew, add hot water to the concentrate to create a smooth, delicious, little-known treat.
Read this far, and don’t even have a French Press? Don’t sweat it! Check our website for our Bodum French press! Available in an 8 cup or 3 cup size with your choice of black or red. Perfectly paired with any of our coffee beans available online or in stores. Whether you're a fan of the comforting warmth of a hot cup of coffee or the refreshing kick of a cold brew, the French press is your trusty companion for both. Its straightforward process and flexibility make it a favorite among coffee enthusiasts. So, next time you're yearning for a coffee fix, consider reaching for your French press and savor the rich flavors it can brew, regardless of the weather outside. Happy brewing!
