Coffee is the most popular beverage in the world. Over 400 billion (billion with a B!) cups are consumed annually. Coffee is the second most valuable commodity exported by developing countries. The caffeine present in coffee not only jolts your energy level, but it can also increase your metabolic rate. Coffee is also a natural source of antioxidants and nutrients. Whether you drink coffee for the caffeine boost, flavor, or health benefits, expand your coffee horizons by trying a different brewing method at Live Enhanced.
Espresso
source: seriouseats.com
Using an extremely expensive machine, nearly-boiling water is forced through finely-ground coffee beans. The pressure used to make espresso produces an aromatic shot-glass size serving of coffee in under 30 seconds. When brewed, the espresso shot will naturally be covered with a light foam called “crema”. Under the crema is a rich velvety shot of coffee that can be enjoyed as is or used to create a specialty coffee drink.
Drip
source: perfectdailygrind.com
The most common method for brewing coffee, especially in the United States, is the drip method. Why? It is quick, inexpensive, and perfect for large groups. Traditionally, medium-ground coffee is purchased in a canister, scooped out, and 5 minutes later you have 12 cups of coffee. Over the past 10 years, single-serving drip-style pods have gained popularity for home use. Coffee pods are convenient and mess-free.
Pour Over (Manual Drip)
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Making a pour-over cup of coffee is like fine art. It takes time and should be admired. A conical vessel with a hole in the bottom is placed over a coffee mug or carafe. Medium ground coffee and hot water are placed with a filter in the vessel. The coffee should brew for 2 minutes. Chemex is a brand name pour-over system that resembles a science lab beaker.
French Press
source: littlecoffeeplace.com
Looking for an easy way to brew a few cups of coffee? A French press is a beautiful and simple method to make coffee at home without electricity. Add coarsely ground coffee (coarse is best since they will be soaking in water for a few minutes) to the glass or stainless-steel carafe. Add hot water and wait 4 minutes. Press the filter down (hence the name) to separate the grounds from the liquid. Voila!
Cold Brew
source: cookinglight.com
Cold brew is not the same as coffee that has been placed in the fridge. The method produces a coffee concentrate with 67% less acid than traditional brewing. Coarsely ground coffee is soaked in cold water (similar to steeping tea) for approximately 12 hours. The mixture is then strained. You can purchase units to assist in the process or use mason jars and cheesecloth.
Moka Pot
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A Moka pot has the look and cooking style similar to a percolator but produces an espresso-like flavor and body. Moka pots are extremely affordable, especially when compared to a personal espresso machine, and readily available online. They are often advertised as an “Italian espresso coffee maker”.
A marvel of science, the Moka pot is comprised of three compartments. Add water to the bottom heating vessel, place medium-fine coffee grounds to the center funnel piece, and wait for the coffee to magically appear in the top canister after being heated on the stovetop.
Tips for a Perfect Cup of Coffee
- Select locally roasted fresh beans
- Grind your own beans just before brewing
- Use water filtered with charcoal or carbon
- Brew water at 200°F
- Drink the coffee fresh!
No matter what method you select to brew your coffee, enjoy every sip.
