Perfect Your Pourover: A Step by Step Guide
There's a certain magic in a well-crafted pour over. The process while seemingly simple, is actually an art form that brings out the true essence of specialty coffee that anyone can master. If you're ready to elevate your coffee experience, this guide is your ticket to mastering the pour over method. We'll walk you through each step, from choosing the right beans to achieving that perfect, aromatic brew.
Selecting Premium Beans
The foundation of a great pour over is, of course, exceptional coffee beans. Opt for high-quality, freshly roasted specialty beans. Whether you prefer single-origin varieties or complex blends, ensure they're suited for pour over brewing. We recommend starting with Evil Coffee Parade Lap medium blend as your starting point. If you find yourself wanting more caffeine and sharper flavors, make your next cup with our Idle Speed light roast and if you're wanting a smoother and bolder cup, grind up some Victory Lap dark roast.
Get The Gear
To achieve pour over perfection, invest in the right equipment. You'll need a pour over cone (Like a Hario V60 or Chemex), a gooseneck kettle for precise pouring, a paper or reusable metal filter, and a carafe or mug to catch the brew.
The Golden Ratio: Coffee & Water
Finding the right coffee-to-water ratio is crucial. A general guideline is one gram of coffee to every 15-18 grams of water. This ratio can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences, but maintaining consistency is key.
Grind Size Matters
For pour over, aim for a medium grind similar to sea salt (AKA, Evil Coffee's standard grind size). A consistent grind ensures even extraction, crucial for a balanced cup of coffee. Adjust the grind based on your brewing time and taste preferences. Pro tip: The less time your coffee spends in water the finer your grind should be.
The Blooming Phase
Start by pouring hot water over the coffee grounds to saturate them. This is known as the "blooming" phase. Allow it to rest for 30 seconds to release trapped gases and prepare the grounds for extraction.
The Pouring Technique
Begin pouring in a controlled, circular motion, starting from the center and moving outward. Maintain a steady flow to ensure even saturation of the coffee bed. Avoid pouring directly onto the edges of the filter to prevent channeling.
Patience is a Virtue
Take your time with the pour over process. A slow, deliberate pour allows for optimal extraction. Aim to complete the entire brewing process in 2.5 to 3.5 minutes.
The Final Act: Savoring That Brew!
Once the brewing process is complete, give the pour over a gentle swirl to mix the layers of coffee. Allow it to settle for a moment, then serve. Bask in the aroma like crisp 2 stroke on a Fall morning and savor the nuanced flavors of your Evil Specialty Coffee.
Mastering the pour over method is a journey of discovery and refinement. With the right beans, equipment, and technique, you'll unlock a world of coffee flavors that will forever change the way you experience your morning brew. Embrace the process, and enjoy the fruits of your pour over labor.
-Cheers!