Specialty coffee for beginners: how to make it

“Specialty coffee for beginners is not just a drink, it’s a journey to the heart of coffee where every sip tells a new story.”

The awakening of a coffee connoisseur

Interest in specialty coffee can be sparked almost by itself. You try a cup of exceptionally good coffee at a friend’s house or at a café and suddenly realize that that deep, rich play of flavours is actually what coffee can and should be. The reasons for switching from regular to specialty coffee are many: the complexity of the taste, the personal satisfaction of brewing your own perfect coffee, and the joy of exploring the origin and history of coffee beans. For a beginner, this world can seem overwhelming, but fear not. The journey from beginner to coffee lover is not only exciting, it is also extremely rewarding. Every cup is an adventure and every new bean variety a discovery.

Choose your hatchet – pour-over or French press

Choosing between pour-over and French press can be a beginner’s first big decision in the specialty coffee world. Both methods have their merits, but why do many tend to recommend French press for beginners? A big part of the answer lies in simplicity. With a French press, little more than coarsely ground coffee and hot water is needed, making the process both straightforward and forgiving. For example, the French press can be highlighted for its direct way of bringing out the character of the coffee without the need for technical equipment. pour-over, on the other hand, requires more precision and technique, which can be daunting for those just starting their journey towards becoming a coffee connoisseur.

Making specialty coffee with a French press

Brewing specialty coffee with a French press is not only easy, it’s also a great introduction to the world of coffee. Start by grinding your beans coarsely, a consistency similar to sea salt is ideal. Heat your water to a temperature of around 95°C – remember that too hot water can ruin the finer nuances of your coffee. When you pour the hot water over the coffee, let it steep for four minutes. After that, slowly press down the press. The result? An aromatic and flavorful cup of coffee. This process brings out the depth and complexity of the coffee without fuss.

Equipping the kitchen for specialty coffee

Embarking on a journey into the world of specialty coffee doesn’t require emptying your wallet of expensive accessories. The key to good brewing lies in four basic tools: a scale to measure ground coffee and water, a coffee grinder to get the beans just as coarsely or finely ground as you prefer, a French press, and of course, quality coffee beans. Such a simple set of utensils enables you to explore and enjoy specialty coffee without feeling like you have to be an expert.

Architects of taste – milling and water

The degree of grinding and the amount of water are two of the most crucial factors in creating a perfect cup of specialty coffee. Too coarse a grind can result in a watery and weak coffee, while too finely ground beans can make the coffee bitter and over-extracted. Finding balance requires experimentation. Start with recommended proportions and adjust from there. The amount of water also affects the strength and consistency of the coffee, so it is important to adjust the amount according to personal taste. It’s a science but also an art, where your own taste benchmark plays the main role.

A variable test in practice

A fun and educational way to get to know your coffee better is to conduct a variable test. Take out your scale and your measure and change one variable at a time. Start by adjusting the grind, then brew a couple of cups, adjusting the amount of water for each test. Taste each cup and note the differences. This method not only allows you to experience how each change affects the end result, but also teaches you how to fine-tune your coffee brewing to perfection.

Beans with character – choose carefully

The freshness of the coffee beans plays a crucial role in the quality of your coffee. Avoid buying coffee from regular grocery stores where the beans may have been stored for a long time. Instead, look for coffee that indicates a roast date and try to use it within a month of that date. Fresh beans give the coffee depth and nuances that make every cup an experience. It is these details that transform coffee from an ordinary beverage into a luxurious pleasure.

Friend or foe of heat – finding the right temperature

The right water temperature is critical to bring out the full character of the coffee without burning away its delicate flavor notes. The optimal range is between 90°C to 96°C. Too hot water can give a burnt taste, while too cold water will not extract all the desirable flavors from the beans. A common tip is to let boiling water cool for about 30 seconds before pouring it over your coffee. This simple trick will ensure that the temperature is within the optimal range for a heavenly coffee.

Your home, your coffee kingdom – the next step in the journey

Venturing into the world of specialty coffee is a journey of discovery, and the best part is that you don’t have to leave your own kitchen to embark on this adventure. With each new coffee bean, each adjustment to the grind or water temperature, you open the door to new flavors and experiences. Think of your home as a laboratory where you explore all aspects of specialty coffee with playfulness and curiosity. Remember that every failure is just one step closer to your perfect cup. So dare to experiment, enjoy the process and discover the endless possibilities that specialty coffee offers.

FAQ – Specialty coffee for beginners: how to make it

What are the best methods to start with as a beginner in specialty coffee?

The easiest and most accessible methods to start with as a beginner are Pour-Over and French Press. French Press is often recommended for beginners because it’s a simple method where you just need to coarsely grind your beans, add hot water and you have a perfect cup of coffee in minutes.

What equipment is needed to make specialty coffee at home?

As a beginner, you only need a few tools to make specialty coffee: a scale to measure the coffee and water, a coffee grinder to grind the beans, a French Press or other brewing method, and quality roasted coffee beans. You can make a good coffee with these basic tools without investing in expensive equipment.

How important is it to experiment with grinding degree and water quantity?

It is very important to experiment with the size of the grind and the amount of water, as these are crucial to adjust the strength and taste of the coffee. It is recommended to change only one variable at a time to better understand how each change affects the final result in the coffee cup.

How does the freshness of the coffee beans affect the quality of the coffee?

The freshness of the coffee beans plays a crucial role in the final taste experience. Avoid buying coffee in regular grocery stores where the beans may have been stored for a long time. Instead, look for coffee listed with a roast date and use it within a month to ensure maximum freshness and flavor.

What is the optimal water temperature when brewing specialty coffee?

The optimal water temperature when brewing specialty coffee is between 90°C and 96°C. Water that is too hot can destroy the flavor notes of the coffee while water that is not hot enough will not extract all the flavors from the coffee beans. A practical tip is to let freshly boiled water cool for 30 seconds before use to achieve a temperature within the recommended range.

Photo by Nicola Barts on Pexels

Photo by The Lazy Artist Gallery on Pexels

Photo by Nicola Barts on Pexels

Continue reading