Brewing a Better Cup of Coffee
If you’re trying to cut back on running to your typical coffee shop, we’ve got you covered on how to up your coffee brewing game. Whether it’s finding and storing beans, finding the right brewing method or how to add an extra boost of flavor, here’s what you should know to make a better cup of coffee.
Learning What Kind of Coffee You Need
We all have differing coffee tastes, what tastes good for one person might not be appealing to another. The trick is knowing how to find the best coffee based on your needs and how to properly store it when you get home. If you want complete control, buy whole beans. You’ll be able to grind and brew to your liking. If you want something quick and simple, try a pre-ground coffee instead.
When buying whole beans, ask when the beans were roasted. You’ll want to know how fresh the beans are and the best method to brew them. Let your brewing method dictate the grind of the beans, as it’ll affect the final favor of your coffee. You should always store beans in an airtight container, preferably in a cool and dark place like a pantry or cupboard.
Choosing a Brewing Method
There are many options for brewing coffee. It all comes down to what method works best for you and the type of coffee you like. Here are a few examples.
- Aeropress. If you’re into gadgets and only planning to brew a cup or two at a time, the Aerporess could be the tool for you. It’s relatively inexpensive and easy to use. The trick is nailing the water temperature.
- French Press. It’s an easy and inexpensive way to brew a few cups of coffee. Don’t forget to transfer the coffee to a carafe after, or you run the risk of the coffee becoming bitter.
- Cold Brew. The better alternative to dropping ice cubes in a glass of hot coffee. These grounds are steeped overnight in cold water for an easy coffee fix.
- Latte. You actually don’t need a fancy espresso machine to enjoy a latte at home. All you need is an extra-strong cup of espresso blend and frothed milk made in a microwave.
Upgrading Your Coffee
Don’t stop after your coffee is brewed. There are many ways to upgrade your coffee further such as milk, cream or sweetener. Frothed milk is a fast and fancy way to take your coffee to the next level. All you need is milk, a clean jam jar and a microwave. You can also add some flavor with pantry staples like spices, a pat of butter, coconut milk or even ice cream. Don’t stop with just the ordinary cream and sugar!
Source: the Kitchn