#GIVEBACK Online Coffee Class : All About Manual Brew

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive guide on manual brewing techniques for coffee, inspired by the #GIVEBACK Online Coffee Class by DRiPP. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your brewing skills, this step-by-step guide will help you understand the essentials of manual coffee brewing, including equipment, techniques, and tips for achieving a perfect cup.

Step 1: Gather Your Equipment

To start brewing coffee manually, you will need the following equipment:

• Coffee Maker: Choose between a pour-over dripper (like a V60 or Chemex) or a French press.
• Coffee Grinder: A burr grinder is recommended for a consistent grind.
• Scale: For measuring coffee and water accurately.
• Kettle: A gooseneck kettle is ideal for precision pouring.
• Timer: For tracking brew time.
• Coffee Beans: Fresh, high-quality beans are essential.

Practical Tip: Always use filtered water for the best flavor.

Step 2: Measure Your Coffee and Water

The right coffee-to-water ratio is crucial for a balanced brew. Here’s how to measure:

• Standard Ratio: A common ratio is 1:15 (1 part coffee to 15 parts water).
• Coffee Amount: For a single cup (around 200g of water), use approximately 13-14g of coffee.
• Scale Usage: Use the scale to weigh both coffee and water for accuracy.

Common Pitfall: Avoid using pre-ground coffee, as it can lead to a loss of flavor and aroma.

Step 3: Grind the Coffee

Grinding your coffee just before brewing maximizes freshness. Follow these steps:

• Grind Size: Adjust the grind size based on your brewing method:
  • Fine grind for espresso.
  • Medium grind for pour-over.
  • Coarse grind for French press.
• Grind Consistency: Ensure an even grind to avoid over-extraction or under-extraction.

Step 4: Heat the Water

The temperature of the water impacts extraction. Here’s what to do:

• Optimal Temperature: Heat water to around 195°F to 205°F (90°C to 96°C).
• Boiling Water: If boiling, let it sit for 30 seconds to cool slightly.

Practical Tip: Pre-warm your coffee maker and cup with hot water to maintain temperature during brewing.

Step 5: Brew Your Coffee

The brewing process differs based on your chosen method. Here are general steps for pour-over:

1. Add Coffee: Place the ground coffee in the dripper.
2. Bloom: Pour a small amount of hot water over the grounds (about twice the weight of coffee) and let it sit for 30 seconds. This allows gases to escape.
3. Pour: Slowly pour hot water in a circular motion, covering all grounds evenly. Aim for a total brew time of about 3-4 minutes.
4. Finish: Once brewed, remove the dripper and enjoy.

For a French press, follow these steps:

1. Add Coffee: Combine ground coffee and hot water in the press.
2. Stir: Gently stir to ensure all grounds are saturated.
3. Steep: Let it steep for about 4 minutes.
4. Press: Slowly press the plunger down and pour.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust

After brewing, it's time to evaluate your coffee:

• Taste Notes: Pay attention to flavors, acidity, and body.
• Adjustments: If it’s too bitter, try a coarser grind or reduce brew time. If it’s too weak, try a finer grind or increase the coffee amount.

Real-World Application: Experiment with different beans and brewing techniques to discover your preferred flavor profile.

Conclusion

Manual brewing offers a hands-on approach to making coffee, allowing for control over every aspect of the process. By following these steps, you can enhance your coffee-making skills and enjoy a delicious cup tailored to your taste. As you gain experience, continue experimenting with different beans, grind sizes, and brewing methods to further refine your technique. Happy brewing!