In today’s economy, going to Starbucks for a daily cup of coffee is not realistic. There’s also something to be said for enjoying a perfect cup of coffee while still in pajamas. Brewing coffee, though, isn’t always as easy as it sounds. Keep reading for great tips on brewing the perfect cup of coffee at home.
Start with Quality, Whole Beans
People who know coffee can tell the difference between brewing strong coffee from whole beans versus pre-ground beans. Using whole-bean coffee provides the freshest cup of coffee possible. It has a surprisingly better flavor and aroma.
While it may seem obvious, always choose quality beans. Coffee connoisseurs can find quality beans in specialty coffee shops. Never buy bulk, online beans, and check the “roasted on” and “best by” dates on the coffee. Choose beans that have been roasted one to three weeks before the “best by” date.
Store Beans Properly
Always store coffee beans in a vacuum-sealed container or airtight canister in a dark, cool, dry place. Do not listen to those who say the refrigerator is the place to keep coffee. It will just end up taking on the smells of other food and not smelling like coffee at all.
Use Quality Water
Because water is the majority of the cup of coffee, consider water hardness, minerality, and alkalinity of the water. Some tap water is fine for coffee, but other tap water may be too hard or too soft to produce the best-tasting water. Consider using filtered water or spring water instead of tap water if it is not making good-tasting coffee.
The best brewing temperature for maximum flavor extraction is between 195 and 205 degrees. Use a thermometer to make sure the water is at the proper temperature.
Choose a Coffeemaker
There is not one right way to brew coffee. Each method produces a different-tasting coffee, so pick the one that suits your preferences. An aero press makes complex coffee with a good body and aroma. It’s perfect for a single cup of coffee. French Presses allow coffee to retain its natural oils, producing a bolder taste. A pour-over maker is easy to use and doesn’t take up too much space on the counter.
Keep the Coffeemaker and Filters Clean
Coffee residue builds up inside the coffee machine after it has been used for a while. Once a month, fill the reserve water chamber with half water and half white vinegar. Run a brew cycle and then run plain water several times to rinse it out. Always wash the coffee carafe between each pot of coffee too.
For pure coffee, it is best to rinse the filters each time you make a new pot of coffee. Rinsing them with hot water removes any chemical or woody flavor that they might have. This helps make the cleanest-tasting pot of coffee. Always weigh the coffee and water using a gram scale to measure the precise amount of coffee to water ratio.
Try Coconut Milk Instead of Non-Dairy Creamers
Traditional non-dairy creamers are filled with preservatives and artificial ingredients. Consider using canned coconut milk. It can provide the same rich texture as cream. Look for a brand with the fewest amount of ingredients for the best texture and taste.
With these simple tips the perfect cup of coffee is achievable, delicious, and economical. It will not take too many days before the coffee shop will be a place of the past.