The Chemex coffee maker is an elegant and timeless brewing device that produces a clean, smooth, and flavorful cup of coffee. Its unique hourglass shape and thick paper filters create a distinctive brewing experience. If you're ready to elevate your coffee brewing game, let's dive into the steps of making a delicious cup of coffee using a Chemex.
What You'll Need:
- Chemex coffee maker: The iconic hourglass-shaped glass carafe with a wooden collar and leather tie gives the Chemex its distinct aesthetic appeal. Choose the size that suits your brewing needs.
- Freshly roasted coffee beans: Opt for high-quality coffee beans that align with your taste preferences. For the Chemex, a medium to medium-coarse grind works best.
- Grinder: Invest in a burr grinder to achieve a consistent grind size. Set it to a medium-coarse setting to ensure optimal extraction.
- Kettle: A gooseneck kettle with a narrow spout provides precise pouring control, allowing you to evenly saturate the coffee grounds. Don't worry if you don't have one though.
- Filter: Chemex proprietary filters are thicker than standard filters and help produce a clean cup of coffee. Pre-fold the filter and place it in the Chemex, ensuring the triple-folded side is facing the spout.
- Scale and timer: Accurate measurements and timing are key to achieving consistent results. Use a scale to measure coffee and water, and a timer to monitor brew times.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Heat water: Bring water to a boil and let it cool for about 30 seconds to reach an optimal temperature of around 200°F (93°C) for brewing coffee.
- Rinse the filter: Pour hot water over the filter to preheat the Chemex and remove any paper taste. Discard the rinse water from the carafe.
- Grind your coffee: Weigh out the desired amount of coffee beans. For a standard 12-ounce cup, start with a ratio of 1:15 (coffee to water). Adjust based on personal preference. Grind the beans to a medium-coarse consistency, similar to sea salt.
- Add coffee and bloom: Place the Chemex on a scale and tare it to zero. Add the ground coffee to the filter. Start the timer and pour a small amount of hot water over the coffee, just enough to saturate the grounds. Allow it to bloom for about 30 seconds as it releases carbon dioxide.
- The pour: After the bloom, continue pouring water in a slow, circular motion, starting from the center and moving outward. Maintain an even pour to ensure all the coffee grounds are evenly saturated. Pause periodically to let the water level recede before pouring more.
- Brew time: Aim for a total brew time of around 3-4 minutes, adjusting as needed. The Chemex filters are thicker, so a slightly longer brew time may be required compared to other brewing methods. Experiment with different brew times to find your preferred strength and flavour profile.
- Serve and enjoy: Once the desired brew time is reached, carefully remove the filter and discard it. Give the coffee a gentle swirl to blend the flavors. Pour the coffee into your favorite mug, sit back, and relish the delightful flavors and aromas.
Brewing coffee with a Chemex is a rewarding experience that results in a clean, smooth, and flavorful cup. By paying attention to grind size, water temperature, and pouring technique, you can achieve a brew that highlights the unique characteristics of your chosen beans. Embrace the artistry of the Chemex and embark on a journey of brewing perfection. Cheers to enjoying a superb cup of coffee!
