The Ultimate Brew Guide – AeroPress

The AeroPress is a versatile and convenient coffee brewing device that allows you to make a wide range of coffee styles, from a strong and concentrated espresso-like shot to a smooth and clean cup of filter coffee. To help you get the most out of your AeroPress, here is a comprehensive brew guide with tips, tricks, and important considerations.

What You Need

1. AeroPress
2. AeroPress filters
3. Fresh, high-quality coffee beans
4. Burr grinder
5. Kettle for hot water
6. Water (filtered or bottled)
7. Stirring device (AeroPress paddle or long spoon)
8. Timer
9. Scale (optional but recommended)
10. Gooseneck kettle (for precise pouring)

Coffee Beans: Start with fresh, whole coffee beans. For the AeroPress, a medium to medium-fine grind is ideal, similar to table salt. Grind your beans just before brewing for the best flavor. We recommend a medium/dark roast like Starry Night.

Water: Use clean, fresh, and filtered water, preferably at a temperature of around 195-205°F (90-96°C). A gooseneck kettle allows for precise water control.

AeroPress Assembly

1. Place a paper filter in the AeroPress cap and secure it onto the bottom of the AeroPress.
2. Set the AeroPress on a sturdy cup or a server.

Brewing Steps

1. Heat your water to the desired temperature.
2. Rinse the AeroPress filter with hot water to eliminate any paper taste and warm the device.
3. Assemble the AeroPress with the plunger at the bottom.
4. Add the desired amount of coffee into the AeroPress. A good starting point is 1-2 tablespoons (14-28 grams) of coffee per 8 ounces (240 ml) of water.
5. Start a timer and pour hot water over the coffee grounds, ensuring they are evenly saturated. Use roughly twice the weight of water as the weight of coffee (e.g., 14g coffee, 28g water).
6. Stir the coffee and water mixture gently for about 10 seconds.
7. Attach the plunger and create a seal. This is known as the “inverted” method.
8. Wait for about 30 seconds to allow the coffee to bloom.
9. Begin pressing down slowly and steadily for about 20-30 seconds until you hear a hissing sound. Stop pressing when you hear this sound.
10. Remove the AeroPress from your cup or server, and you’re ready to enjoy your coffee!

Tips and Tricks

1. Experiment with coffee-to-water ratios and brew times to find your preferred taste and strength.
2. Use a burr grinder for consistent and even grounds.
3. Play with water temperature, but aim for 195-205°F for a balanced extraction.
4. Maintain a consistent and slow press to avoid bitterness.
5. Customize your brew with additives like milk, cream, sugar, or spices.

Cleaning

Cleaning the AeroPress is a breeze. Just remove the cap, pop out the coffee puck and filter, rinse with hot water, and you’re done.

In conclusion, the AeroPress is an excellent tool for making coffee, providing flexibility and control over your brew. The key to great AeroPress coffee is using fresh beans, precise measurements, and a bit of experimentation to find your perfect cup. Enjoy your journey into the world of AeroPress brewing!