Coffee can be prepared and presented in a myriad of different ways. Here we will discuss the advantages of the French Press method.
The French Press is a simple glass container with a plunger fitted with a fine metal gauze filter, which is pressed down on hot water. To brew coffee simply add a medium grind of coffee to the beaker and add very hot water. The plunger is left in the up position when presented to the consumer. The apparatus is usually delivered to the dinner table in this fashion. The consumer makes a personal decision when to press plunger and end the brewing process. The plunger pushes a filter down the beaker that slowly pushes the coffee grounds to the bottom of the beaker. The coffee can then be served into coffee cups by pouring directly from the beaker.
This method of brewing coffee is very simple but does offer great variety and flexibility. Often individual French Presses are supplied for each person at the table. However larger size beakers are available up to 8-12 cups so larger groups can be catered for from one piece of equipment. It is usual however to serve the coffee in one cup beakers so the individual can decide when they consider the coffee is ready for drinking. For stronger coffee simply wait a few minutes longer before depressing the plunger and serving. In addition to personal strength variations the French Press method has the advantage of allowing different coffees to be used depending on individual tastes. A decaffeinated, a strong and medium blend may be offered for example.
User satisfaction is often enhanced with this brewing method as there is a much more personal involvement in the coffee and pressing the plunger and serving can be a satisfying experience.
The beaker, lid, plunger and filter can be often be a quality piece of table ware. Often the apparatus has fixings of chrome, silver, brass or gold and can look very striking on the meal table. This method of serving coffee is popular in restaurants and the owners may feel they can charge more per cup due to its quality image.
This method of preparing coffee is thought to have originated in France, hence it's given name of the French Press. However it is also known as the plunger method for obvious reasons. In the UK the apparatus may be referred to as a cafetiere, which is the French word for coffee pot or coffee maker.
Look out for other articles in this series, where we discuss the Ibrik, the vacuum flask, the percolator, the Toddy method and others. There are so many ways to prepare and enjoy good coffee. Experiment a little and you may find a method that allows you to enjoy your favourite drink even more.
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