What Is a French Press Coffee Maker?

One of the simplest ways to make coffee at home is using a French Press coffee maker. It doesn't take much coffee-making skill, no expensive equipment is needed and you don't even have to use electricity. The French Press coffee maker can be an ideal solution for how to get a cup of freshly brewed coffee, no matter what your location is.

Features

A French Press coffee maker consists of a glass carafe inside a plastic or metal casing that includes a handle. The top of the coffeemaker fits snugly on top of the carafe and is made up of a metal and mesh strainer and a plunger.

How to Use

Depending on how strong you like your coffee, place several scoops of ground coffee beans into the carafe's bottom. Boil enough water on the stove or in a microwave to fill the carafe. Pour the boiling water into the carafe on top of the ground coffee beans. Secure the French Press coffee maker's lid and allow the coffee to steep in the boiling water for 1 to 2 minutes. Firmly grasp the lid and press the plunger down, causing the coffee beans to be pushed to the bottom of the of carafe and the coffee is left at the top. Pour into a mug and serve.

Where to Buy

Find French Press coffeemakers at any department or retail store that sells kitchen appliances. Also, coffee businesses, such as Starbucks, oftentimes sells French Press coffeemakers.

Cost

French Press coffeemakers can range from $10 to $100. They come in different sizes and can accommodate as few as 2 cups of coffee or as much as 12 cups.

Warning

Once you pour the boiling water into the carafe, handle the carafe with care by using the handle and the lid.