coffee Brewing methods
simple guidance for each approach
Brewing methods
At Cuppers Journey, we champion the pour over method for bringing out the vibrant clarity and complexity of African coffees — but the following classic coffee brewing methods each offer something unique and are worth exploring.
French press
Also known as the Press Pot or Cafetiere, this brewer became iconic in the UK thanks to the La Cafetiere brand. Traditionally glass, modern versions now include double‑walled stainless steel for better heat retention. It is simple, affordable, and produces a full‑bodied cup thanks to the metal mesh filter that lets some oils through. A coarser grind helps reduce sediment.
Key details
- Ratio: 75g per litre
- Grind: Medium to medium-fine
- Total time: 10 minutes
coffee Brewing method
- Warm the French Press
- Add freshly ground coffee
- Pour hot water over all the grounds and break up any dry patches
- Stir and let it steep for 4 minutes with the lid loosely on
- Skim off foam and floating grinds, then steep for another 5 minutes with the lid loosely on
- Lower the plunger just into the liquid to act as a sieve
- Pour gently to avoid disturbing sediment
AeroPress
Invented in 2005, the AeroPress quickly gained a cult following and even sparked its own World Championship. It blends immersion brewing with light pressure, is incredibly consistent, and packs easily for travel. Its versatility makes it perfect for experimenting.
Key details
- Ratio: 75-100g per litre (adjust to taste)
- Grind: Medium-fine
- Total time: 3 minutes
coffee Brewing method
- Place a paper filter in the cap and lock it onto the brewer
- Set it on your cup or server and add coffee
- Pour in water, fully wetting the grounds
- Insert the plunger slightly (do not press)
- Wait 2 minutes
- Lift and gently swirl to break the crust
- Let settle for ~30 seconds, then press slowly for about 30 seconds
- Pull the plunger back slightly to stop dripping and clean
Moka pot
Created by Alfonso Bialetti in 1933, the Moka Pot is both a design icon and a staple of Italian home brewing. It uses steam pressure to push water through coffee, producing a strong, espresso‑style drink. Because temperatures rise quickly, managing heat is crucial to prevent bitterness.
Key details
- Ratio: 100g per litre
- Grind: Medium-fine
- Total time: 5-7 minutes
coffee Brewing method
- Fill the base with just‑off‑boiling water (not past the valve)
- Add coffee to the basket — level, but not packed
- Assemble carefully to ensure a good seal
- Brew over a medium heat with the lid open
- When coffee begins to flow, reduce the heat but maintain a steady extraction
- At the first gurgle, remove from heat to avoid over‑extraction
- Cool the base under cold water to stop brewing
Espresso machine
Espresso is intense, short‑lived, and famously complex. Its crema forms when high‑pressure water emulsifies oils and traps CO₂ produced during roasting — beautiful, but quick to oxidize. This coffee brewing method offers precision and rewarding results, but it demands attention to grind size, dose, and temperature.
Key details
- Ratio: 1:2 coffee to water
- Grind: Fine
- Water temperature:
- light 92-97°C
- medium 85-94°C
- dark 80-85°C
coffee Brewing method
- Use the recommended dose for your basket. Weigh beans before grinding
- Grind, shake or distribute to remove clumps, and ensure an even bed
- Tamp firmly until the grounds are level and no longer feel soft
- Brew immediately after locking in the portafilter, and stop at your target yield
Whichever coffee brewing method you choose, each offers its own path to a delicious cup—so explore, experiment, and enjoy the journey as much as the coffee itself.
