Making Cold Brew Coffee

You may have heard of cold brew coffee. A recent trend in the world of coffee, cold brew is here to stay.

This is not to be mistaken with an iced coffee, however. What’s the difference I hear you cry? Well, we have you covered. Check out the differences between a cold brew and iced coffee when you have a mo. But in the meantime, we take a look at the process behind making cold brew coffee!

 

cold brew coffee

 

Cold brew coffee is simply coffee that has been brewed with cold water. Its gain in popularity has resulted in cold brews popping up in cafes and coffee shops across the world. However, if you’re reading this and have no clue what a cold brew is, don’t panic, just read on my friends, read on.

Although cold brew coffee has only recently gained popularity, it has been around for a lot longer than you may think. Originating in Japan, cold brew coffee can be traced all the way back to the 1600s!

 

pouring cold brew coffee into a glass

 

It is thought that the cold brew technique was used as a way of transporting coffee from Indonesia. When the coffee arrived at its destination, it could then be heated and drank. It’s also said that cold brew coffee was created with people with sensitive stomachs in mind, due to its lower acidity level.

Flavours found within Cold Brew Coffee

The flavours found in cold brew coffee are often more intense, compared to those found in coffee brewed with hot water. This is due to the oxidation that occurs when coffee is brewed with hot water. To add, the chemical compounds found within the coffee evaporate into the air quicker when brewed with hot water. These give you the aroma of the coffee.

Oxidation still occurs with cold brew coffee however, the process is much slower. Cold brew coffee therefore doesn’t give so much in the way of aroma; that aroma becomes taste instead.

 

green coffee being sprinkled into a sack

Why Choose Cold Brew Coffee

Cold brew coffee has become increasingly popular for more than just its taste. There are a number of health benefits that come with a cold brew coffee which have made it popular with those looking for a healthier lifestyle.

Acidity

As mentioned, cold brew coffee has a lower acidity level compared to coffee brewed with hot water. When heated, more oils are released from the coffee beans. With a lower acidity level, you are less likely to suffer from things such as acid reflux and heartburn.

 

Coffee being poured from a roaster drum

Natural Sweetness

As a result of its low acidity, cold brew coffee is naturally sweeter too. This means that you may be able to omit the milk or sugar, which in turn, will reduce the calorie content.

Antioxidants

Coffee beans contain antioxidants and other nutrients which help our bodies to function correctly. When coffee is brewed using hot water, chlorogenic acid is removed. This is an antioxidant that helps to fight off diseases and ageing.

 

How to make cold brew coffee

You don’t necessarily need a new brewing device to make a super cold brew (although, it can be easier!) Cold brew can be made in a variety of popular brewing devices.

Want to try making cold brew coffee at home with a cafetiere? Check out this guide now. For other popular devices, read on.

Aeropress

Did you know you can make cold brew coffee with an Aeropress? The Aeropress is very similar to a cafetiere in the way you pour water over ground coffee and then slowly plunge it. However, the Aeropress is a much easier device to use and to clean, not to mention it produces a cleaner, more full-bodied cup of joe.

To start, you will need 30g of coarsely ground coffee; much coarser than your Aeropress will be used to. A coarse grind similar to that used in a filter works best. The difference in required grind size is due to the difference in the brewing process. For instance, you will be using cold water rather than boiled water.

 

 

Place the plunger just inside the top and flip the device over. Now, add the coffee and water and gently stir to ensure they mix as you would for an Inverted method Aeropress.

 

 

Cover the top of the Aeropress and leave for 24 hours at room temperature.

Once it is ready, place a cup or mug on top of the Aeropress and flip it over. Then you can proceed to plunge your cold brew.

 

 

Finally, add ice if required.

Chemex

The Chemex is a classic, yet stylish filter coffee device. It’s an excellent device for brewing regular coffee, and it has its uses for cold brew coffee too.

As for the Aeropress above, you will need 30g of coarsely ground coffee to make a cold brew using a Chemex.

 

 

Pop the grounds in a mason jar, then add 300ml of cold water.

 

 

Next, stir gently to combine. Cover the mason jar and leave for 18-24 hours.

 

 

When ready, slowly pour the mixture through a Chemex filter (nestled in the top of your Chemex) and let the coffee drip into the base. Stir as you pour to assist the coffee through the paper filter.

Then pour into your desired cup and, as before, add ice if required.

As with hot coffee, you will have to experiment a little to get the strength and taste you desire. Try experimenting with different water to coffee ratios, along with different brewing times.

Mizudashi Coffee Pot

Although the methods given above will produce a cold brew coffee, there is one device that will do all the hard work for you, and produces a smooth tasting cold brew coffee every time!

 

cold brew in a hario cold brew pot

 

This device was created with simplicity in mind. All that is required is for you to mix your ground coffee with water within the device and leave it to brew overnight. How easy is that?!

This is THE device for the summer! Perfect for when you’re craving the taste of coffee but need something that is refreshing too.

 

 

In conclusion, making cold brew is super fun, no matter how you make it. If you want our advice, we would invest in the Mizudashi Cold Brew Coffee Pot, it will get well used this summer!

Device in hand, ready to make cold brew coffee? Grab a bag of freshly roasted coffee today!

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