French press brewing delivers a bold, full-bodied coffee experience. My husband, for instance, enjoys starting his day with a French press brew, appreciating its richness.
The French press method is not only flavorful but also straightforward. All it takes is immersing coffee grounds in hot water, allowing flavors to extract, and using a mesh plunger to separate the grounds from the liquid.
Unlike drip or pour-over coffee, which rely on filtration, the French press uses immersion to create coffee.
Why Is It Called a French Press?
In the U.S., this coffee maker is known as the French press or coffee press. In England and France, it’s called a cafetiére, while in New Zealand, Australia, and South Africa, it’s referred to as a coffee plunger. The origins are uncertain, but both France and Italy claim its invention. French inventors Mayer and Delforge received a patent in 1852, while Italian designer Attilio Calimani patented a modern version in the 1920s. Further innovations by Swiss entrepreneur Faliero Bondanini in the 1950s led to the Chambord, now made by Bodum, widely recognized today.
What Is the Best Grind for French Press?
For a French press, coarsely ground coffee, similar to coarse sea salt, is ideal. This is because a finer grind may over-extract, causing bitterness, and potentially pass through the mesh, resulting in a gritty brew. Some French presses use finer mesh, allowing finer grinds, but these are exceptions.
Pros of French Press Coffee
- Full Body: Immersing grounds in water leads to a robust, flavorful coffee.
- Simplicity: The process is easy—just add grounds, pour water, stir, and press.
- Cost-Effective and Sustainable: No need for paper filters, only coffee grounds.
- Compact: This small device easily stores away, saving counter space.
Cons of French Press Coffee
- Coarser Grind Required: You may need to buy specific grinds or have a grinder.
- Risk of Over-Extraction: Timing is crucial to avoid bitterness.
- Grounds in Coffee: Some sediment is inevitable, especially in the last cup.
- Cleanup: Disposing of grounds and cleaning the press can be messy.
Different French Press Options
While the classic Chambord design is timeless, there are various French press styles, from travel-sized to family-sized. Options include glass, stainless steel, and ceramic bodum models. The stainless steel versions are ideal for travel or outdoor adventures, while double-walled ones keep coffee warm longer.
Brewing Instructions
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Heat the Water: Heat water to 205°F (96°C). If you lack a temperature-controlled kettle, bring water to a boil and let it sit for 30 seconds.
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Add Water, Stir, and Rest: Place coffee grounds in the French press, pour in water, stir to moisten all grounds, let rest for a minute, stir again.
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Cover and Steep: Let the coffee steep for an additional 3 minutes. Then, press the plunger slowly. If it’s too stiff, release pressure before continuing.
- Serve: Pour into cups and serve immediately. Pour any extra coffee into an insulated mug to prevent over-extraction.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 3 per serving
- Fat: 0g
- Carbs: 0g
- Protein: 0g
This guide provides a comprehensive look at the French press method, from its history and optimal grind to brewing instructions and benefits. Whether for its full-bodied flavor or simple preparation, the French press remains a popular coffee-making choice.
