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How do you prepare special coffee?

How do you prepare special coffee?

Lovers coffee know that the way of preparation can completely change the taste and experience of this favorite beverage. Specialty coffee, which comes from carefully selected plantations and undergoes strict quality control, requires special preparation in order to release its full potential in a cup.

In this guide, we will explore the best methods of making specialty coffee, from classic techniques such as French press and pour-over to modern alternatives such as AeroPress and cold brew.

French press: Classic method for a rich taste

French press is one of the simplest, but most effective methods of brewing coffee, perfect for those who like a rich, full flavor.

How to prepare coffee in French press?

  1. Choose freshly ground coffee – Coarsely ground coffee is recommended to avoid overextraction and precipitate in the cup.
  2. Warm up the water – The ideal temperature is between 90-96°C.
  3. Add coffee to French press – The ratio is usually 1:15 (e.g. 20 g of coffee per 300 ml of water).
  4. Pour hot water and stir – Pour the coffee evenly and let it rest for 4 minutes.
  5. Press the filter and serve – Gently press the plunger down and serve the coffee immediately to avoid bitterness.

Why choose French press?

✔ Preserves natural oils and coffee aromas
✔ Provides rich and full flavor
✔ Easy to use

Pour-over: Filter method for clean and delicate profile

The pour-over method uses manual overflowing of hot water over ground coffee through a paper filter, allowing controlled taste extraction.

How to prepare pour-over coffee?

  1. Prepare freshly ground coffee – Use medium-fine ground coffee.
  2. Set the filter and rinse it – Rinse the filter with hot water to remove the paper flavour.
  3. Add coffee and start overflowing – Use a 1:16 ratio (e.g. 20 g of coffee per 320 ml of water).
  4. First pour a little water (blooming) – Pour a small amount of water and wait 30 seconds for the coffee to release CO2.
  5. Continue to slowly overflow – Using circular movements, add the rest of the water in several intervals.
  6. Wait for the water to drain and enjoy – The process takes about 3-4 minutes.

Why choose a pour-over?

✔ Precise taste control and extraction
✔ Pure and delicate aroma
✔ Highlights fruity and floral notes of special coffee

Espresso: The Art of Preparing the Perfect Shot

Espresso is the basis of many drinks such as cappuccino and latte macchiata. It is prepared under high pressure, resulting in a rich creamy texture and intense taste.

How to prepare the perfect espresso?

  1. Use freshly ground coffee – Finely ground coffee is required.
  2. Coffee tamping – Press coffee evenly in the portafilter with approximately 15-20 kg of pressure.
  3. Extraction – The ideal espresso should be extracted between 25-30 seconds.
  4. Analysis of results – If it is too bitter, the extraction may have been too long; if it is too acidic, it may be too short.

Why choose espresso?

✔ Intense and rich taste
✔ Cream on the surface provides extra fullness
✔ Perfect for strong coffee lovers

AeroPress and cold brew: Alternative methods for coffee lovers

AeroPress: Quick and easy preparation

AeroPress is an innovative method that combines elements of pour-over and espresso, creating a balanced and clean taste.

⁇ How to make coffee in AeroPress?

  1. Use medium ground coffee.
  2. Add hot water and stir.
  3. After 1-2 minutes, press the plunger and serve.

✔ Quick and easy preparation
✔ Suitable for travel
✔ Flexibility in taste adjustment

Cold brew: Cold extraction for a mild and refreshing taste

Cold brew is a method in which coffee is soaked in cold water for 12-24 hours, resulting in low acidity and smooth taste.

⁇ How to prepare a cold brew?

  1. Use coarsely ground coffee (1:8 ratio with water).
  2. Soak in cold water for 12-24 hours.
  3. Strain and serve with ice.

✔ Refreshing and mild taste
✔ Less acidity than classic coffee
✔ Ideal for summer days

Conclusion – Which method is best for you?

Choosing a special coffee preparation method depends on your preferences:

  • Do you want a rich and full taste? – Please select French press.
  • Do you prefer a clean and delicate aroma? – Pour-over is the right choice.
  • Are you a fan of intense coffee? – Espresso is invincible.
  • Are you looking for convenience? – AeroPress offers speed and simplicity.
  • Do you like cold and refreshing coffee? – Cold brew is ideal for you.

Regardless of the method, the most important thing is to use quality, freshly ground coffee and enjoy every sip! 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Which method of preparation is best for special coffee?

Pour-over is often a recommended method because it highlights the complex aromas of special coffee.

2. What type of grinding to use for each method?

  • French press – coarsely ground
  • Pour-over – medium finely ground
  • Espresso – finely ground
  • AeroPress – medium milled
  • Cold brew – coarsely ground

3. How long does extraction take for each method?

  • French press: 4 minute
  • Pour-over: 3-4 minute
  • Espresso: 25-30 seconds
  • AeroPress: 1-2 minute
  • Cold brew: 12-24 hours

4. What method gives the strongest coffee?

Espresso is the most intense because it is prepared under high pressure.

5. Can I use the same coffee for all methods?

You can, but adjusting the grinding and water ratio brings the best results.