How to Make French Press Coffee

The French press is one of the simplest and most popular methods for brewing coffee. Due to the prolonged contact with water, the coffee becomes strong, and thanks to the relatively coarse filter, it has a rich and full-bodied texture.

Grind Size and Dosage

For a French press, medium to coarse grind is ideal. The finer the grind, the more intense the flavor will be due to higher extraction. A coarser grind helps avoid over-extraction, which can make the coffee bitter.

The optimal dosage is similar to that used for pour-over coffee: 30 grams of coffee per 250 ml of water (1 ounce per 8 fluid ounces). For a standard 1-liter (34-ounce) French press, you’ll need about 60 grams (2 ounces) of coffee beans.

It’s important not to measure coffee by eye, as even slight deviations in proportions can significantly affect the outcome. For consistent results, it’s best to weigh your coffee with a scale before each brew.

Water Temperature

The optimal water temperature for brewing coffee in a French press is 92-95°C (197-203°F). To achieve this temperature, bring the water to a boil and then let it cool for about 30 seconds. Even better, if you have a thermometer, you can measure the water temperature precisely to ensure consistency.

Brewing Process

Pour a small amount of hot water into the French press to warm it up, then discard the water. This step helps maintain the brewing temperature, ensuring better extraction.

1. Add the ground coffee to the French press.

2. Then pour in the hot water. Stir the mixture gently to ensure all the grounds are fully saturated.

3. Place the lid on the French press without pressing down the plunger. This helps retain the heat during brewing.

4. Start a timer for 4 minutes. Some coffee lovers prefer a 5-minute brew time for a stronger flavor, but 4 minutes is generally a good balance.

5. After the brewing time is up, gently press down the plunger. It’s important to do this slowly to avoid agitation, which can lead to over-extraction. Immediately pour the coffee into a serving pot or cups.

Leaving the coffee in the French press will result in continued extraction, which could make the coffee too bitter.

Additional Tips

• If you prefer a stronger or weaker coffee, adjust the ratio of coffee to water slightly. Experimenting with this will help you find your perfect brew.
• For the best results, grind your coffee beans just before brewing. A consistent grind size is key to ensuring even extraction.
• When adding water, pour slowly and in a circular motion to ensure all the grounds are evenly saturated.
• After brewing, disassemble the French press and thoroughly clean the filter and carafe to prevent old coffee oils from affecting the taste of your next brew.