If you’re a coffee lover, you’ve probably heard of the Chemex brewing method. It’s a classic pour-over method that has been around since the 1940s, and it produces a clean and smooth cup of coffee. But to get the perfect cup, you need to pay attention to a few things, such as the coffee to water ratio, the grind size, and the brewing time.
The ideal coffee to water ratio for a Chemex is one part coffee to 15 parts water. However, personal preference and the type of coffee being used can impact the ratio. It’s important to experiment with different ratios and adjust accordingly to achieve the best flavor.
While simple, learning to use a Chemex is still learning something. There are plenty of details to get rightLet’s look at the ideal coffee to water ratio for a Chemex and how to use it to make delicious coffee.
What is the Ideal Coffee to Water Ratio for a Chemex?
Even though you’re probably here for a little more on the general process of using a Chemex, first, we’re going to address the ratio question.
The ideal coffee to water ratio is an important factor when it comes to brewing coffee with a Chemex. The standard ratio is one part coffee to 15 parts water. This means that for every gram of coffee, you should use 15 grams of water. This ratio ensures that the coffee is not too weak or too strong and allows for optimal extraction of the coffee grounds.
It’s important to note that the ideal coffee to water ratio can vary depending on personal preference and the type of coffee being used. Some people prefer a stronger or weaker cup of coffee, and certain types of coffee may require a different ratio to achieve the best flavor. It’s always a good idea to experiment with different ratios and adjust according to taste.
When determining the ideal coffee to water ratio for your Chemex, it’s also important to consider the size of your Chemex and the number of cups you want to make.
For example, if you have a six-cup Chemex, you will need to use more coffee and water than if you have a three-cup Chemex. Using the correct amount of coffee and water for the size of your Chemex will help ensure consistent and delicious results every time.
How Do You Use a Chemex?
The first step to using a Chemex is to choose the right coffee. You will want to use freshly roasted coffee beans for the best results. You can either grind the beans yourself or buy pre-ground coffee. However, it is best to grind the beans yourself, as this will give you the freshest cup of coffee possible.
For the Chemex, you will need a medium-fine grind, which should look similar to table salt. If the coffee is too finely ground, it will clog the filter, and if it is too coarsely ground, the coffee will be weak.
Next, you will need to heat water to the appropriate temperature. Ideally, the water temperature should be between 195 and 205 degrees Fahrenheit. If the water is too hot, it can scorch the coffee, and if it is too cold, the coffee will be weak.
You can use a thermometer to ensure that the water is at the correct temperature. Once the water is heated, you can pour it into the Chemex.
To use the Chemex, you will need to fold the filter and place it in the top of the brewer. Make sure that the thicker side of the filter is facing the spout. Pre-wet the filter by pouring hot water over it to remove any paper taste and to warm the Chemex. Discard the water used for pre-wetting the filter. Once the filter is in place, add the coffee to the Chemex.
Start by pouring just enough water over the coffee to saturate it and wait for about 30 seconds. This allows the coffee to “bloom” and release gases that can affect the taste of the coffee. After 30 seconds, continue pouring water over the coffee in a circular motion, making sure to wet all of the grounds evenly.
The entire brewing process should take between 3 and 4 minutes. Once the brewing is complete, you can remove the filter and discard the grounds. The Chemex can be cleaned by simply rinsing it with hot water. Do not use soap, as it can leave a residue that can affect the taste of your coffee.
Is Chemex Coffee Stronger Than Other Brewing Methods?
Chemex coffee is known for its smooth, clean, and full-bodied flavor profile, and it is often compared to pour-over coffee. However, when it comes to strength, Chemex coffee is generally considered to be milder than coffee brewed using other methods.
The Chemex coffee maker uses a thick paper filter, which removes most of the coffee oils and sediment, resulting in a cleaner cup. As a result, the coffee tastes less bitter and more refreshing than coffee brewed using other methods. Additionally, the Chemex’s design encourages a slower extraction process, which leads to a milder brew.
Compared to French press or espresso, which are known for producing stronger, more robust coffee, the Chemex is often described as lighter and smoother. However, the strength of the coffee can be adjusted by changing the coffee to water ratio, the grind size, and the brewing time. It is possible to make a stronger Chemex coffee, but it may not have the same smoothness that is characteristic of this brewing method.
How Many Cups of Coffee Can You Make in a Chemex?
The number of cups of coffee you can make with a Chemex depends on the size of the Chemex you have. Chemex comes in different sizes ranging from 3 cups to 10 cups. The 3-cup Chemex can make about 1 to 2 cups of coffee while the 6-cup Chemex can make up to 4 cups.
The 8-cup and 10-cup Chemex can make 6 to 8 cups and 8 to 10 cups of coffee respectively. It’s important to note that the size of the cup used can also affect the number of servings. It’s always best to follow the Chemex guidelines to ensure you get the desired number of cups from your brewing.