What’s your morning ritual? Coffee in your pajamas can be one of the best ways to start your day – gently transitioning between sleep and awake. It seems that the key is to brewing a delicious cup is part art, part science.
Here’s how to make the perfect cup…
The Water
The quality of the water you use plays a big part in the flavor of your coffee. Many modern coffee makers have built-in filters. But if you’re using a pour-over method or an older coffee maker, be sure you are using fresh water that’s free of impurities – either from a filter system like Brita or a quality bottled water. And here’s another tip on your water – make sure you use cold water for the best brew!
The Coffee
If you can buy a locally roasted coffee, this is an excellent option because it retains its flavor longer than a coffee roasted somewhere else and transported to you. Basically the clock starts ticking on freshness long before your coffee reaches your counter top. And of course, it’s always great to support local businesses! Check around your local area and see what’s available. You can also buy directly from roasters online here.
The best scenario for the freshest taste, is to grind your coffee beans just before you brew. There are two types of grinders – blade and burr. Burr grinders are the best because they grind the coffee beans evenly, giving you the richest flavor. You can read more about grinders here. If you don’t have a grinder at home, you can always buy whole bean coffee and grind it up in the store before you bring it home. It won’t be as fresh as grinding at home, but it is a fresher option than coffee that comes to the store already ground. To keep the beans fresh, store them in an airtight container.
How fine you should grind your beans depends on what brewing technique you use. You can learn all about that here. The basic measurement is to use 2 tablespoons of coffee for every 6 ounces of water. But we say, experiment! If you like a strong cup, you try using a little more coffee. You can always add hot water if it comes out too strong.
The Brewing Technique
There are several different methods to make coffee – a traditional coffee brewer, coffee press, and the pour-over method where you use a filter and brew directly into a cup or carafe. Traditional brewers work great, but its always fun to brew some Italian espresso on occasion or use a French press for variety!
Check out food guru Alton Brown’s “True Brew” recipe with some more helpful tips on creating create good coffee!
How do you make your coffee? Do you have a favorite brewing method or brand of coffee?Please share with us in the comments below!
