Brew It The Way You Like It - Pour Over
Posted by Hala Tree Coffee on Jul 2nd 2023
“Brew it the way you like it, drink it the way you like it.”
In the realm of coffee brewing methods, the pour-over technique has emerged as a revered artisanal approach, celebrated for its ability to extract exquisite flavors and unlock the true essence of each coffee bean. If you're a coffee aficionado seeking to elevate your brewing skills and embark on a journey of sensory exploration, join us as we delve into the art of pour-over brewing.
Unveiling the Pour Over Method:
The pour-over method epitomizes simplicity and precision. It involves pouring hot water over coffee grounds in a controlled manner, allowing gravity to aid in the extraction process. This careful technique showcases the delicate nuances of coffee, delivering a clean and well-balanced brew that highlights the unique characteristics of each bean.
Essential Tools for Pour-Over Brewing:
- Pour over dripper: Popular options include the Hario V60, Kalita Wave, or Chemex.
- Paper filter or a reusable metal filter: Choose the appropriate size for your dripper.
- Gooseneck kettle: Its precision spout enables controlled pouring.
- Freshly roasted coffee beans: Select high-quality beans that align with your flavor preferences.
- Coffee grinder: Opt for a burr grinder to achieve a consistent grind size.
- Hot Water: 198-205 degrees
- Scale (Optional): For precise coffee-to-water ratio measurements.
- Timer: To monitor brewing time.
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare your equipment: Set up your pour-over dripper on a mug or carafe, and place a filter inside.
Step 2: Grind your coffee beans: Grind the coffee beans to a medium-coarse consistency. Aim for a texture similar to sea salt.
Step 3: Measure and add coffee: Measure the desired amount of coffee using a scale, typically using a ratio of 1:15 (1 gram of coffee to 15 grams of water). Add the coffee grounds to the filter in the dripper, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Begin the pour: Start your timer and pour a small amount of hot water, just enough to saturate the coffee grounds evenly. Allow it to bloom for 30-45 seconds as carbon dioxide is released. You’ll notice bubbles — that’s carbon dioxide exiting the coffee grounds. Wait until the water is almost completely drained after the initial pour.
Step 5: The pour sequence: Pour the remaining water slowly and steadily in a circular motion, starting from the center and spiraling outwards. Maintaining a consistent pour rate ensures the water level remains below the dripper's rim.
Step 6: Brewing time: Continue pouring until you reach the desired coffee-to-water ratio. The total brewing time typically ranges from 2 to 4 minutes, depending on factors such as grind size, desired strength, and dripper type.
Step 7: Enjoy the brew: Remove the dripper and discard the filter once the brewing is complete. Give the coffee a gentle stir to ensure uniformity, then pour it into your favorite mug. Take a moment to appreciate the enticing aroma and savor the nuanced flavors of your homemade pour-over masterpiece.
Congratulations! You've unlocked the art of pour-over coffee brewing. As you continue your pour-over journey, don't hesitate to experiment with different coffee beans and grind sizes.