There are many different methods of making coffee. Below are the three most common ways to achieve the perfect cup:
The Cafetière or French Press
The trick to making a nice cafetière coffee is to use coarsely-ground coffee as opposed to the finer grind used in espresso machines. All of our ground coffee blends are suitable for use in a cafetière, with the exception of our Espresso blend.
Remove the plunger and put 1 good tablespoon of coffee per cup into the cafetière. A good guide is to put 1 - 2cm of coffee in the bottom of the cafetière for a full pot, depending on how strong you like your coffee.
Boil your water and then leave to cool for 1 minute to avoid burning the coffee, which would give a bitter taste. Pour the hot water into the cafetière and give the coffee a stir with a spoon.
Leave the coffee to brew for 2 minutes, then give it another stir before inserting the plunger.
Push the plunger down slowly until it reaches the bottom - never force the plunger down too hard as the coffee will spurt over the top and probably scald you! If the plunger resists then give the coffee a little more time to brew before plunging again.
Serve the coffee with or without milk as you prefer.
Filter Coffee
As with a cafetière you should use coarsely-ground coffee with a filter coffee machine. Prepare the coffee as per the instructions that came with the machine.
Again, we recommend using 1 good tablespoon of coffee per cup.
if you are using paper filters, we recommend using unbleached rather than the white, bleached kind. This is better for you and better for the environment!
Espresso
The espresso method of making coffee originates from Italy and can be prepared either with an espresso machine or using a stove-top percolator.
When making espresso, always use finely ground coffee to help it pack down and give a good crema. Our ground espresso blend is perfect for this.
If you are using an espresso machine then follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer.
For a stove-top percolator, firstly unscrew the base and remove the lower filter.
The base will have a water mark level indicator inside, which is usually a brass valve hole. Fill the base with water to just below the valve.
Insert the filter and fill with coffee to the brim.
Carefully screw on the top jug of the percolator until it's nice and tight.
Turn your stove on to a nice low heat to bring the percolator to a gentle boil. After 3-4 minutes the water will start to boil, which will force the water up through the coffee into the top half of the percolator.
The process will be complete when you hear that distinctive steam-popping sound. Remove from the stove and turn off.
Serve the coffee in an espresso cup or use as a basis for a cappucino, caffè latte etc.
Storage
Always store opened coffee bags in a refrigerator, preferably also in an airtight container.
