Cold brew coffee is a refreshing and smooth alternative to traditional hot coffee, and it is easy to make at home with just a few simple ingredients and tools. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make cold brew coffee.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of coarsely ground coffee
- 4 cups of cold water
- A French press or a mason jar with a lid
Instructions:
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Start by coarsely grinding your coffee beans. The grind should be similar to coarse sea salt. The coarser the grind, the less bitter the coffee will be. Cold brewing is a slow process, and the coffee grounds need to be coarse to allow for adequate extraction without becoming bitter.
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Place the ground coffee in a French press or a mason jar. If you're using a French press, make sure the plunger is in the up position.
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Slowly pour the cold water over the coffee grounds, making sure all the grounds are fully saturated. Stir the mixture gently to ensure even saturation.
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Cover the French press or mason jar with the lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 12 hours. The longer you let the coffee steep, the stronger it will be. Hemingway was known to like his coffee strong, so you may consider steeping for up to 24 hours.
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After the steeping time is over, press down the plunger on the French press or strain the coffee through a fine mesh strainer if you're using a mason jar. This will separate the coffee grounds from the liquid.
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Your cold brew coffee is now ready to serve. You can enjoy it over ice, with milk or cream, or with a splash of simple syrup for a sweeter taste. Cold brew coffee can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Tips:
- Use high-quality, freshly roasted coffee beans for the best results.
- Experiment with the steeping time to find the strength that you prefer.
- Cold brew coffee can also be diluted with water to create a less strong concentrate, which can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- You can also try adding flavorings such as vanilla, cinnamon, or chocolate for a unique twist on the traditional cold brew.
Cold brew coffee is a simple and delicious way to enjoy coffee. With a little patience, you can make a batch of cold brew that is just as good as Ernest Hemingway's. The smooth and less acidic taste is perfect for summer days or for those who prefer their coffee less bitter. Give it a try and enjoy a cup.
