The Chemex coffee maker is an iconic piece of equipment that has been a favorite among coffee enthusiasts for decades. With its elegant design and the promise of a clean and rich cup of coffee, the Chemex has become a symbol of precision brewing. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the tips, tricks, and important considerations for making the perfect cup of coffee with a Chemex.
What You Need
- Chemex coffee maker
- Chemex paper filters (white or natural brown)
- Fresh, high-quality coffee beans
- Burr grinder
- Kettle for hot water
- Water (filtered or bottled)
- Stirring device
- Timer
- Scale (optional but recommended)
Coffee Beans: Start with freshly roasted, whole coffee beans. For the Chemex, a medium-coarse grind is ideal, similar to sea salt. Grind your beans just before brewing to preserve their flavor. We recommend a medium/dark roast like Starry Night.
Water: Use clean, fresh, and filtered water at a temperature between 195-205°F (90-96°C) for the best results. A gooseneck kettle will help you control the water flow more precisely.
Chemex Setup
- Open a Chemex paper filter and place it in the brewer with the thicker, triple-folded side against the spout.
- Rinse the filter with hot water to remove any paper taste and warm the Chemex. Pour the rinse water out.
Brewing Steps
- Heat your water to the desired temperature.
- Add the desired amount of coffee grounds to the Chemex. A good starting point is 1 to 2 tablespoons (14-28 grams) of coffee per 6 ounces (180 ml) of water.
- Start a timer and pour a small amount of hot water (about twice the weight of the coffee) over the coffee grounds, allowing them to bloom. Wait for about 30 seconds.
- Continue pouring the remaining hot water in a steady, circular motion over the coffee grounds. Ensure they remain saturated but not floating on top.
- Use a stirring device to gently agitate the coffee grounds to ensure even extraction.
- Allow the coffee to drip through the filter into the Chemex. This process should take around 3-4 minutes.
- Once all the coffee has dripped through, remove the filter and enjoy your brew!
Tips and Tricks
- Experiment with coffee-to-water ratios and brew times to find your preferred taste and strength.
- The pour-over method can be very precise; try to maintain a consistent pouring technique.
- Use high-quality, freshly roasted coffee beans for the best flavor.
- Keep your equipment clean for the best results, especially the Chemex filter.
- Customize your coffee with milk, cream, sugar, or other flavorings to suit your preferences.
Cleaning
Cleaning the Chemex is straightforward. Discard the used filter and coffee grounds, and rinse the Chemex with hot water. You can also use a mild detergent to keep it sparkling clean.
In conclusion, brewing with a Chemex is an art that rewards those who seek a clean and flavorful cup of coffee. By using fresh ingredients, precise measurements, and a little experimentation, you can create a coffee experience that’s uniquely yours. Embrace the elegance and precision of Chemex brewing, and savor the extraordinary results.