Coffee! French Press How-To

In response to a tutorial request, I've prepared a simple how-to video for using a French press. All I have to say is: "Mmmm, coffee...".



Things to remember:

• French press coffee is typically stronger than that made in a conventional coffee maker. This is because you let the grounds actually steep in the water directly and for minutes at a time versus slowly dripping water once through as with a conventional coffee maker. You may even expect to use less ground coffee this way.


• There are no electrical or electronic components; it just needs a source of hot water. This makes a French press ideal for use as an emergency backup, or 'disaster recovery' system. Believe me I wish I'd had my French press during that big storm that knocked out all of our power; since our stove is gas and still worked despite there being no electricity. It can also come in handy for camping (even if it does seem a little less "masculine").


• The carafe in the French press is glass. It's fragile, it can break if it's subjected to wild swings in temperature. Most importantly, it "remembers" flavors. If you plan on using a French press for coffee and tea-- or anything else for that matter-- plan on getting multiple presses or risk the flavors bleeding through (unless that's what you're after; in which case, game on!).


• There's a little more work associated with properly cleaning and caring for a French press. The grounds like to get stuck between the filter mesh and the frame, so plan on having a few extra dishes and spending a little longer cleaning the filter.


• Because there's no consumable filters, a French press is very "green"! There, I've said it. I've used the buzz word to end all buzz words; but, it's true. It uses less electricity or gas-- especially if you're using your hot water for other things. And there's less waste. Don't forget: coffee grounds make great compost fodder and are perfect for lowering soil pH. If you're going for blue hydrangeas, look no further!

And, while I realize I may not have a pretty mug-- at least I have a pretty mug to make up for it.