You have got to love how baristas make fabulous cups after delicious cups of espressos, lattes, cappuccinos, and other caffeinated beverages.
They are like magicians and alchemists concocting out-of-this-world creations worth lining up for.
You do not have to be a barista to make excellent coffee.
All you need are words of wisdom and a few tips from coffee geniuses. Here are seven ways to make coffee at home.
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1. Drip Coffee
About 45% of Americans who make coffee in their home use a drip coffee machine. Simplicity of making drip coffee is what attracts most people to it. There are no complicated processes involved. The method also prevents the introduction of coffee oils into the drink.
To make a barista-quality drip coffee, we recommend getting a good-quality electric drip coffee machine for less than $100. You will also need the best coffee ground with fine to medium consistency.
Line the filter basket with the correct paper filter. For every cup of drip coffee you want to make, add a tablespoon of the medium-fine coffee grounds. Fill the reservoir with cold, filtered water and press a button to start the brewing process.
You should have your coffee shop-quality coffee within four minutes, longer if you are planning to make more than a cup.
2. Pour-over
If you want clean and clear coffee with a light body, we recommend using a pour-over coffee.
The secret to making coffee shop-quality pour-over coffee is to use the correct ratio of medium-coarse coffee grounds to hot water. If you are using coffee blends, you need 30 grams of coffee grounds for every 350 mL of hot water. If you prefer single-origin coffee, you should pick a lightly roasted product and use only 22 grams per 350 mL of hot water.
Your water should also be between 195 and 205 degrees Fahrenheit.
Place the filter over your carafe or coffee mug, add the coffee grounds, and tap the sides gently to ensure a level coffee ground surface. Pour a little bit of hot water over the coffee grounds slowly in a circular motion. Leave it to bloom for about 30 seconds.
Complete the brewing process by slowly pouring the remaining hot water over the grounds in a circular motion.
3. French Press
This type of coffee is suitable for those who want a delicate and aromatic drink, full of flavor and with a unique taste.
We recommend using only water with a temperature between 195 and 205 degrees Fahrenheit. Use about one to two tablespoons of coarsely ground coffee for every cup of water. Pour the hot water into the French press, stir it, and leave it to brew.
After about three to five minutes, press the French press plunger to the bottom of the press. Pour the French press coffee into your cup and enjoy.
Here’s our in-depth guide in making coffee using French Press.
4. Percolator
Some people love their coffee strong and bold with a hint of coffee bitterness in every sip. If you are one of these people, Vallena suggests trying to make coffee using a percolator.
For this coffee type, you will need coarsely ground coffee and a percolator coffee maker.
Always start by filling the percolator with cold water. The secret is to heat the water slowly to guarantee the robustness of the coffee flavors. Add your coffee grounds to the percolator basket and place it on the stove top, over low to medium heat.
Watch the percolator and note when it starts to bubble. Bubbling should occur at steady intervals. If it sputters too fast, your heat is too high. If it does not bubble that much, your water is not hot enough.
Four to ten minutes of continuous steady bubbling should give you the strong coffee you want.
5. Cold Brew
If you are a big fan of cold brew coffee, you can make one at home without ever heading to your favorite coffee shop.
We recommend using coarsely ground coffee to achieve the distinct super smooth body and rich flavors of a cold brew. The secret is to let your drink sit in the refrigerator for at least 12 hours.
Start by preparing a coffee solution with a 1:4 or 1:5 coffee-to-water ratio. For example, you can add a cup of coffee grounds to four or five cups of cold filtered water. Another tip is to pour the water slowly to prevent the coffee grounds from rising to the surface. Use a long-stemmed spoon to stir the mixture.
Put it in your refrigerator for up to 24 hours before you start enjoying it.
6. Espresso Machine
Coffee lovers who want an effortless and hassle-free way to make their favorite drink can use an espresso machine instead.
You can purchase a good-quality espresso machine for less than $200. If you need a barista in a machine, you can get a pricey super-automatic espresso maker.
Making coffee using an espresso machine is as easy as filling the brew basket with your finely ground coffee, locking the portafilter, and pressing a button. You can have a rich, sharp, and strong coffee with a decadent crema in seconds.
7. Moka Pot
If you cannot afford an espresso machine, you can still make a rich and flavorful espresso using a Moka pot. The only difference here is that you will wait about five minutes before you can start enjoying your drink.
Always fill the Moka pot’s lower chamber with hot water just below its valve. Fill the filter basket with medium-fine coffee grounds and insert it into the Moka pot. Replace and secure the pot’s upper chamber and set it on your stove.
Heat the Moka pot until you hear bubbling and steaming sounds. Turn off the stove, remove the Moka pot, pour the coffee straight into your mug, and enjoy.
Conclusion
Here at Cuppabean, we think that these seven ways to make coffee at home should give you a head start on how to produce the most thrilling cup of Joe to satisfy your caffeine cravings.
The methods are pretty simple, requiring only a few gadgets and commitment to ensuring the perfect cup of coffee every time.
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