Chemex

STEP BY STEP

Making coffee with a Chemex is a unique and rewarding process that produces a clean and flavorful cup. The Chemex is a pour-over coffee maker with a distinctive hourglass shape and a thick paper filter. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you make delicious coffee using a Chemex:

Ingredients and equipment:

1. Freshly ground coffee beans (medium-coarse grind)

2. Chemex coffee maker

3. Chemex bonded paper filters

4. Hot water (just off the boil)

5. Coffee kettle or gooseneck kettle

6. Coffee scale (optional but helpful)

7. Timer

Step 1: Prepare the Chemex and filter Unfold the Chemex bonded paper filter and place it in the top part of the Chemex (the cone-shaped section). The triple-fold side should be facing the spout of the Chemex. Rinse the filter with hot water to remove any paper taste and preheat the Chemex. Pour the rinse water out of the Chemex.

Step 2: Measure the coffee grounds Weigh out your coffee grounds using a coffee scale for precision. A standard coffee-to-water ratio is 1:15 to 1:17, meaning 1 gram of coffee for every 15 to 17 grams of water. You can adjust the ratio according to your taste preferences.

Step 3: Add coffee grounds to the filter Place the medium-coarse ground coffee into the pre-wetted Chemex filter.

Step 4: Bloom the coffee Start the timer and pour just enough hot water (around twice the weight of the coffee grounds) over the coffee to saturate them fully. Let the coffee bloom for about 30 seconds. Blooming allows the coffee to release trapped gases, leading to a more even extraction.

Step 5: Begin the main pour After the blooming period, start pouring the hot water in a slow, circular motion over the coffee grounds. Pour in a steady stream, starting from the center and moving outward in spirals. Avoid pouring directly on the sides of the filter.

Step 6: Continue pouring Maintain a slow, steady pour, adding water until you reach the desired coffee-to-water ratio. It should take around 3 to 3.5 minutes to complete the pouring process.

Step 7: Let the coffee drain Once you've poured all the water, wait for the coffee to drain completely through the filter. This process should take around 3 to 4 minutes, depending on your grind size and pouring technique.

Step 8: Remove the filter and grounds Gently lift the filter, along with the coffee grounds, and discard them in a compost bin or trash can.

Step 9: Serve and enjoy Pour the freshly brewed coffee from the Chemex into your favorite mug or carafe. The Chemex produces a clean cup with distinct flavors, so take your time to savor the rich taste and aroma.

Step 10: Clean the Chemex After you finish brewing and enjoying your coffee, clean the Chemex by removing the filter and rinsing it out with warm water. It's important to keep your Chemex clean and ready for the next brewing session.

Making coffee with a Chemex requires a bit of practice and patience, but once you get the hang of it, you'll be able to enjoy a delightful cup of coffee with complex flavors and clarity. Happy brewing!

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