How to Brew Coffee

Introduction

The value of a great-tasting cup of coffee cannot be underestimated, especially by a coffee enthusiast. There is no one magic way to make good coffee because everyone has their own tastes. Some people enjoy it strong, others less so. Other things to consider are whether you want an espresso, flavors, cream or milk, and what kind of sweetener. Is the purpose of drinking it to boost your energy level or to complement a meal? Different processes are used for different types of coffee beverages. The process for brewing a basic, good cup of all-purpose coffee follows below.

Supplies and Equipment    

The best cup of coffee comes from freshly ground beans, therefore it is important to buy only enough whole beans for one to two weeks at a time. To grind your own beans, purchase a burr or mill grinder, as opposed to one with a spinning blade. This is because having a consistent and uniform grind is important to the extraction process as the water removes the essential flavors and oils from the coffee as it brews.

Good quality water is essential to brewing delicious coffee. If your tap water tastes bad, so will your coffee. It is best to use filtered water.; however, if all you have on hand is tap water, let it run for a few seconds before filling the reservoir on your coffee maker so the initial strong chlorine taste has a chance to dissipate somewhat.

Filters are another consideration. Paper filters are convenient because they can be thrown away and make clean-up easier. The disadvantage is that they remove many of the particles that give coffee a rich flavor. By using a metal filter, these particles pass through, giving your coffee a “full-bodied” taste. Some sediment is found at the bottom of your coffee cup by using a metal filter, but this is not a bad thing! Just swirl or stir your coffee cup before finishing the last few sips.

Method

Use the amount of ground coffee suggested on the package for best results. Usually one to two tablespoons are recommended for every six ounces of water depending on how strong you like it. If you like weaker coffee, it is better to brew it strong and then add water to your cup afterward for best flavor. For drip-coffee makers a medium grind is preferable. If the grind is too fine, you will end up with an over-extraction of the coffee, resulting in a bitter flavor.

Coffee is best enjoyed within 15 to 20 minutes of being brewed. The longer it sits on the heating element of the coffee maker, the more likely it is to “burn.” This happens when the temperature is too hot or when the coffee has been sitting on the heat for a prolonged period of time. Only make as much coffee as will be drank within this time. If it is necessary for the coffee to sit longer than this, transfer it from the pot to an insulated container, such as a carafe, and use within 45 minutes.

Conclusion

Coffee can be enjoyed either black or with half-and-half, milk, creamer, sweeteners, or flavored syrups. If you like your coffee sweetened, experiment and try using raw or organic sugar, or agave for a unique taste and as a healthier alternative. The good news is that coffee drinkers can reap health benefits. While the evidence is not conclusive, studies indicate that drinking several cups of coffee a day may prevent diabetes, dementia, heart rhythm disturbances, and Parkinson’s disease (Osterweil, 2010). So brew some fresh coffee, drink, and enjoy!

Watch this fun and informative video on coffee
by Alton Brown

References

National Coffee Association USA. (n.d.). How to Brew Coffee: The Definitive Guide. Retrieved   from http://www.ncausa.org/i4a/pages/index.cfm?pageid=72

Osterweil, N. (2012). Coffee and Your Health. WebMD. Retrieved from     http://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/features/coffee-new-health-food

Wortman, M. (2012). Drip-Brew (North American Coffee). Retrieved from             http://makegoodcoffee.com/brewing_drip