Brewing Coffee with a Chemex

Coffee is more than just a beverage; it’s a ritual, an art form, and a moment of zen in our busy lives. Among the myriad ways to brew coffee, the Chemex stands out for its elegance and the purity of flavor it brings to each cup. If you’re new to the Chemex or looking to refine your brewing technique, this guide will walk you through the steps to achieve a perfect brew every time.

What You Need:

1. Chemex Coffee Maker: The hourglass-shaped glass brewer that’s as beautiful as it is functional.
2. Chemex Filters: These special filters are thicker than most, helping to remove unwanted oils and sediments.
3. Coffee Beans: Freshly roasted, high-quality beans are key. Go for a medium roast to start.
4. Grinder: A burr grinder is ideal for achieving a consistent grind size.
5. Kettle: A gooseneck kettle gives you more control over the pour.
6. Scale: Precision matters; a digital scale ensures accuracy.
7. Water: Fresh, filtered water heated to around 200°F (93°C).

Step-by-Step Brewing Guide:

1. Weigh and Grind the Coffee: Start with a 1:15 coffee-to-water ratio. For one cup (about 250ml), you’ll need around 16 grams of coffee. Grind the coffee to a consistency resembling sea salt.
2. Prepare the Filter: Place the Chemex filter in the brewer with the three-layered side against the spout. Rinse the filter with hot water to remove any paper taste and preheat the Chemex. Discard the rinse water.
3. Add Coffee Grounds: Place the Chemex on your scale, add the ground coffee to the filter, and tare the scale to zero.
4. Bloom the Coffee: Start by pouring twice the amount of water to coffee (e.g., 32 grams of water for 16 grams of coffee). Pour slowly to saturate all the grounds and let it sit for about 30-45 seconds. This process, known as blooming, allows the coffee to de-gas and prepares it for proper extraction.
5. First Pour: After the bloom, slowly pour water in a circular motion, starting from the center and moving outward, avoiding the edges. Aim for about 60% of your total water volume (150ml for one cup).
6. Second Pour: Once the first pour has mostly dripped through, continue with the second pour, maintaining the circular motion. Pour until you reach your total desired water amount (250ml for one cup).
7. Let it Brew: Allow the water to drip through the coffee grounds. This should take about 3-4 minutes in total. If the water is dripping too fast, your grind might be too coarse; if it’s too slow, your grind might be too fine.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Once the brewing is complete, remove the filter and discard it. Give the Chemex a gentle swirl to mix the coffee before serving. Pour yourself a cup and savor the clean, bright flavors that the Chemex is known for.

Tips for the Perfect Chemex Coffee:

• Experiment with Ratios: Adjust the coffee-to-water ratio to suit your taste preferences. A stronger brew can be achieved with a 1:14 ratio, while a lighter brew might use 1:16.
• Consistency is Key: Use a consistent grind size and precise measurements for repeatable results.
• Freshness Matters: Always use freshly roasted coffee beans and grind them just before brewing.
• Water Quality: The taste of your water can significantly affect your coffee. Use filtered water for the best results.

Brewing coffee with a Chemex is more than just making a cup of coffee; it’s a ritual that brings a sense of calm and satisfaction. The clarity and complexity of flavors it produces make every sip an experience to be cherished. So, next time you reach for your Chemex, take your time and enjoy the process. Happy brewing!