How to Use a French Press

True coffee purists swear by the cup of Joe they are able to brew using a French press. Whether it is the ritual of using the press itself, or the fine quality of the coffee brewed using a French press, the mug you enjoy after brewing your grounds this way will leave you wanting to make this kind of brewing a part of your regular routine.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Coffee beans
• Coffee grinder
• Water
• French press
• Small wooden spoon
• Kitchen thermometer (optional)

1. Boil the water. Water used in a French press should be boiled and then allowed to rest briefly before adding to the press. True coffee enthusiasts prefer the water temperature to be between 195 and 200 degrees. You can test this with a kitchen thermometer if you desire.
2. Grind the beans to a medium coarseness using the coffee grinder. It is important to make sure that the beans are neither too course nor too fine. Grind the beans just before using them for the best taste.
3. Remove the lid and the plunger of your French press and add the coffee grounds. One rounded tbsp. for each 4 to 6 oz. of water is a good starting ratio. You may make your coffee stronger or weaker according to your tastes as you gain practice with the French press.
4. Pour the water slowly over the grounds making sure to distribute the water evenly as you fill the press. A slow pour allows the grounds to become evenly saturated. Be sure not to overfill the pot or else water will squirt out as you plunge. Place the lid on the pot.
5. Steep the coffee for about a minute and remove the lid to gently agitate the grounds with a wooden spoon. Replace the lid and let the coffee steep for two to three more minutes.
6. Remove the lid and slowly plunge the coffee, making certain to keep the plunger level. Uneven plunging will release grounds into the coffee. Gently push the plunger to the bottom of the pot.
7. Pour the coffee immediately, keeping the plunger in place. Enjoy your coffee!

Tips & Warnings

• Coffee brewed in a French press is intended to be enjoyed immediately, so avoid letting it sit.
• Vary the ratio of coffee to water according to your own tastes.
• Experiment with the coarseness of the grinds to alter the flavor.
• Take care to exercise caution whenever you are using boiling water.