Ah, coffee – that glorious elixir that turns dreary mornings into bearable ones. If you're looking to elevate your coffee game and indulge in a rich, aromatic brew, the Chemex is your secret weapon. Not only does it make a fantastic cup of joe, but it's also a stylish addition to any kitchen.
Here, show you how to wield the Chemex like a coffee wizard and have you sipping on liquid happiness in no time (don't worry if you don't have everything, you can substitute at every step of the way, but if you do want magic, this is the secret recipe!).
Step 1: Gather Your Magical Potion making equipment
Before we dive into the coffee-making magic, gather the necessary tools:
- A Chemex coffee maker
- Chemex filters (preferably natural brown)
- Fresh coffee beans (whole, if possible)
- A burr grinder (for grinding the beans)
- A gooseneck kettle
- A kitchen scale
- A timer
Step 2: Choose Your Beans
Now, let's talk coffee beans. The quality of your coffee starts here. Opt for fresh, whole beans (ideally from Turtlely Awesome, ahem ahem). Pro tip: store your beans in an airtight container to keep them fresh and full of flavour.
Step 3: Grind It Right
Grind size matters! For Chemex, aim for a medium-coarse consistency, similar to sea salt. A burr grinder is your best friend here, ensuring uniformity and precision. Grinding just before brewing preserves the beans' flavor and aroma. If you only have a hand grinder then good luck! You may be here some time...
Step 4: Preheat and Rinse
Place the Chemex filter in the brewer, with the triple-layered side against the spout. Rinse it thoroughly with hot water. This not only removes any papery taste but also warms up the brewer. Discard the rinse water.
Step 5: The Coffee-to-Water Ratio
Here's a golden rule: Use 1 to 1.25 ounces (28-35 grams) of coffee for every 16 ounces (475 ml) of water. Adjust this ratio to your taste preference, but it's a great place to start.
Step 6: Bloom Time
Add your freshly ground coffee to the Chemex. Start by pouring a small amount of hot water (about twice the weight of your coffee) over the grounds, evenly saturating them. Let it bloom for 30 seconds. This releases trapped gases and primes the coffee for a full extraction.
**Fun Coffee Fact: Did you know that coffee beans are not actually beans? They're seeds of a fruit called coffee cherries!**
Step 7: The Pouring Ritual
Now, it's time for the main act. Start pouring hot water in a slow, steady spiral motion, starting from the center and moving outward. Keep the water level consistent, aiming for that 1 to 1.25 coffee-to-water ratio. Pause occasionally to allow the coffee to drain and make room for more. We do this every morning in the Turtlely Awesome house, and it's an incredible mindful way to start the day!
Step 8: The Waiting Game
Once you've poured all your water, let the magic happen. Coffee will trickle through the filter at its own pace. A well-brewed Chemex takes about 4-5 minutes. Use this time to contemplate life or plan your day. (Or make the kids' lunch, or do some stretches, or put the pots away)
Step 9: Savour the Flavour
The moment of truth is here! As your coffee finishes dripping, remove the filter and discard it. Pour yourself a cup of the aromatic elixir you've created. Take a moment to appreciate the nuances of flavor, aroma, and body in your brew.
Conclusion
There you have it, your guide to making coffee using a Chemex. It's not just a coffee-making process; it's a ritual, a labour of love that rewards patience with a cup of perfection. So, the next time you're craving a cup of liquid happiness, remember these steps and brew your own magic in a Chemex. Happy sipping!