Directions for French Press Coffee

Delight in the robust flavor captured by a French press.

Making coffee with a French press is an excellent way to experience the full flavor of the coffee beans. While conventional drip coffeemakers have filters that absorb some of the oils from the beans, these oils are preserved in the French press. Also known as a coffee press, a French press comes in various sizes and has models made of glass, steel and plastic. For the most flavorful cup of coffee, use freshly ground beans and filtered water.

Things You'll Need

• French press
• Tea kettle
• Water
• Coffee beans
• Grinder

Instructions

1. Fill a kettle with eight to 24 oz. --- depending on the number of cups being made --- of cold, filtered water and put it on the stove to heat.

2. Select the coarse setting on the grinder and grind the beans as close to when you are using them as possible for the freshest flavor.

3. Measure 2 tbsp. of ground coffee beans per cup into the bottom of the French press.

4. Allow water to almost reach the boiling point and then pour it over coffee grounds. Be sure to soak all of the ground beans.

5. Make sure the plunger is up, and then place the French press lid on top of the carafe to keep the contents warm, but do not push the plunger down.

6. Brew the coffee for approximately five minutes.

7. Press the plunger down slowly when the time has elapsed.

8. Pour the coffee into heated mugs while holding the lid of the French press in place.

Tips & Warnings

• Before adding the ground beans, rinse the French press with hot water, and do the same for the coffee cups just before serving. When coffee hits a cold glass or ceramic surface, it creates a bitter flavor.

• A coarse grind is best to prevent sediment in the bottom of the cup of coffee. It also allows for the most flavor to come through as more of the bean is exposed with coarse grinding.

References

• Coffee Brewing --- CoffeeResearch.org
• How to Use a French Press