Have you visited a coffee shop recently and have been wanting to recreate the same quality of drinks they serve at the comforts of your home? The growing trend of gourmet coffee has led to a wide range of gadgets and coffee brewing options for different types of coffee beans, such as single origin, organic, and blends. For instance, Coffee Project by AllValue Corporation was recognized as one of the best coffee shops in the Philippines with over 55 branches around Metro Manila, Calabarzon, and a few provinces. They are known for their best-tasting coffee and beverages, mouth-watering food, and Instagram-worthy interior. If you’ve been wanting to get a hold of good coffee but only in the comfort of your own home, learning the different methods of brewing coffee might help. In this article, we’ve listed some methods you can try at home.
What are the different methods of brewing coffee?
To enjoy a superior coffee experience at home, you can either hit a ‘brew’ button on your coffee machine or choose a hands-on brewing process. Most beginners find it intimidating, as there are numerous and complex ways to make coffee nowadays. Worry no more because we’ll make it simpler for you! Get your basic ingredients ready (including ground coffee, water, and a filter), and take note of the following things you need to get started. You can also ask your local barista for some advice, especially on equipment and tips to achieve a great brewed coffee.
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1. Pour Over/Drip Coffee Method
HOW IT WORKS: This is one of the oldest, cheapest, fastest, and best coffee brewing methods for beginners. Hot water is poured over coffee grounds (medium-fine to coarse) in a paper filter positioned on a coffee cone, either made of, glass, plastic, ceramic, or stainless steel. The brewed coffee slowly drips directly into a cup. Using the filter holds back oils and undissolved coffee particles, influencing the smooth flavor and mouthfeel of the coffee.
If you want to brew more than one cup at a time, you can use a Chemex since it brews six to eight cups of coffee in a single use. The Chemex is a glass flask invented in 1941 by Dr. Peter Schlumbohm. It uses a special paper filter that is 20-30% heavier than other filters. Hot water is also poured over the coffee grounds (medium-coarse) in the paper filter and the brewed coffee drips into the bottom of the flask, doubling as its own carafe. This produces a balanced, non-acidic, and refined flavor with floral and sweet notes. In comparison to the coffee cone, the Chemex is more expensive, fragile, harder to clean, and has higher costs entailed for filters.
WHY WE LOVE IT: Using the drip coffee method at your house and lot is highly convenient. You can either set it before you go to sleep or when you start your day with a morning coffee. All you need is to pour, let it sit for a while, and viola, your coffee is ready to sip and enjoy! The slow filtration makes the coffee more robust in flavor and smooth in texture. This is best for anyone who is not afraid to experiment and is willing to learn the proper technique for coffee perfection.
2. French Press Method
HOW IT WORKS: The French Press was invented in 1929 and is considered the easiest and best coffee brewing method for superior and consistent cups of coffee. In a press pot, the ground coffee (coarse) is soaked and steeped in hot water and then strained with a metal filter. This extracts the coffee’s purest flavors from its essential oils and antioxidants which are better preserved than any other method. Specifically, the flavor nuances can be explained as clean and robust, which is well suited for coffee drinkers who enjoy a luscious and complex taste experience.
WHY WE LOVE IT: To anyone who loves having coffee with breakfast, the French Press is accessible and straightforward since it also doubles as a serving carafe. No filters are required, and it comes in a variety of sizes that can produce up to eight cups of coffee. It is also portable and easy to clean, especially the stainless-steel variety. Meanwhile, in terms of flavor and texture, French Press coffee is full-bodied, making it heavier and denser than the pour-over. It is already delicious when served black but becomes better when milk or cream is added.
3. AeroPress Method
HOW IT WORKS: Alan Adler, an engineer and physicist, launched the AeroPress in 2005, because he wanted a faster coffee brewing method by combining immersion (French Press) and filtration (pour over). It is made of plastic and comes in three parts: the plunger, chamber, and filter cap. Other tools included are a scoop, stirrer, funnel, filter holder, and micro paper/fine metal filters. The required AeroPress filter is placed in the bottom of the brew chamber, where hot water is added to steep the coffee grounds (fine-medium). To extract, press down on the plunger to create air pressure, forcing the sweet, full-bodied, and espresso-style coffee into the cup.
WHY WE LOVE IT: Considered to be the Swiss army knife of coffee brewing methods, the AeroPress is a compact device perfect for travelers and minimalists. This method is versatile, welcomes experimentation, and is efficient to make a single serving in a short amount of time. AeroPress coffee has a delicate and silky mouthfeel with concentrated espresso-like intensity. Overall, it is easy to use and clean, does not waste any coffee, and can be used wherever you go.
4. Cold Brew Method
HOW IT WORKS: Cold brew coffee is one of the most popular coffee brewing innovations today. It is quick, easy, and beginner friendly by soaking coffee beans in cold water for hours. Since there is no heat involved, the coffee will have an intense flavor without acidity or bitterness. To make a cold brew, place fresh ground beans (coarse – thin and thick sand) on a strainer inside a coffee maker or mason jar, pour water, secure the lid, and pop it in the fridge for at least 8 to 12 hours. Remove the strainer and pour it out through a filter when serving.
WHY WE LOVE IT: Patience is a virtue in making cold brew coffee. In the end, it will reward you with a refreshing cup that has a silky and light mouthfeel. Flavor profiles range from fruity or tart to chocolatey and rich. There is no need to enhance the flavor with milk or sweeteners to taste the origins of the coffee bean. It is an excellent option for people who live in a hot climate, those who opt for a cold drink during summertime, and those who need caffeine to be mentally alert and calm simultaneously. Additionally, it can even stay fresh for up to two weeks!
5. Siphon Method
HOW IT WORKS: Siphon, also known as a vacuum pot, uses fire, immersion, and vacuum pressure. Visually, it looks like a scientist’s invention with intricate details, including an upper chamber, lower chamber, stand, and burner. In this coffee brewing method, the glass contraption works by adding water to the glass bulb located at the bottom part of the siphon. A flame heats the water to a boiling point and the water moves upwards to the upper chamber or hopper. Once it reaches the right temperature, place coffee grounds (medium) in the hot water. After stirring, remove the siphon from the heat. The change in pressure and force of gravity will drip the coffee down from the filter to the bulb.
WHY WE LOVE IT: You can feel like a scientist with the artistic effect of the siphon brew method. Concoct a delicate cup of coffee with a subtle flavor that is not as sharp tasting as the pour-over coffee. The brewing time allows the coffee to bloom longer and unlock flavors without burning the coffee. If you follow directions correctly, it will be hard to ruin your final cup using this method. This is best suited for experienced coffee enthusiasts, hobbyists, and someone who likes to show off their skills to your family, friends, or neighbors in the Bria Homes community.
Making specialty espresso-based drinks can be an expensive investment, nonetheless, brewing coffee manually is a more budget-friendly approach you can try. Likewise, when investing in real estate, Bria Homes provide affordable and best-value housing to every Filipino family. For more information, you can check Bria Homes’ official website and Facebook page.
