12 tips on how to make better coffee at home, according to a coffee roaster

3 min read

12 tips on how to make better coffee at home, according to a coffee roaster

Home is where the coffee brews!

For all our coffee-loving mates out there, there's nothing quite like the aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafting through your home.

But let's be honest, brewing coffee that tastes as good as your local Fox Coffee cuppa can feel like a tall order.

Don't fret – we're here to share our top 12 tips on brewing better coffee at home, straight from our experienced roasters. Let's get to it!

 

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  1. Fresh (Fox Coffee) Beans are Best: The first rule of thumb – always use fresh coffee beans! Coffee is a perishable product, and its quality diminishes over time. Buy whole beans and grind them right before you brew for maximum flavour.

  2. Find the Right Grind: Your grind size impacts extraction, and thus, the taste of your coffee. A general guideline: the shorter the brew time, the finer the grind.

  3. Invest in a Quality Grinder: A quality burr grinder offers consistent grind sizes, ensuring even extraction. Avoid blade grinders – they're known to create uneven grinds.

  4. Right Ratios: Aim for a coffee-to-water ratio of about 1:15 to 1:17, adjusting according to taste. Too much coffee can lead to over-extraction and bitterness, while too little can taste weak and watery.

  5. Perfect Your Water: Coffee is 98% water, so the quality of your water matters. Use fresh, filtered water if possible, avoiding distilled or softened water as they lack the necessary minerals for optimal coffee extraction.

  6. Proper Brewing Temperature: Aim for a brewing temperature between 91°C and 96°C. Too hot or too cold can lead to over or under-extraction.

  7. Brew Time: Brew time depends on the method. For a French press, aim for 4-5 minutes; for a pour-over, aim for 2-3 minutes. Experiment and adjust to find your sweet spot.

  8. Pre-infusion or "Bloom" Your Coffee: Pre-infusion, or "blooming," allows gases to escape from your coffee, leading to better extraction. Simply pour enough water over your grounds to wet them and wait about 30 seconds before continuing with the rest of your water.


  9. Clean Equipment: Residual coffee oils can build up over time, affecting your coffee's taste. Regularly clean your equipment to keep your coffee tasting fresh and bright.

  10. Store Coffee Correctly: Keep your coffee beans in an airtight container, in a cool, dark place. Avoid the fridge or freezer – fluctuating temperatures can lead to moisture, negatively impacting your coffee's quality.

  11. Experiment and Enjoy: Coffee brewing is as much art as it is science. Don't be afraid to tweak variables and try different beans, brew methods, or water temperatures.

  12. Take Time to Taste: Slow down and savour your coffee. Pay attention to the flavours and aromas. This mindfulness can lead to a better understanding of what you like and how to achieve it.

Our Fox Coffee roasters are passionately dedicated to the art of coffee, and we hope these tips inspire you to elevate your home brewing game. Remember, the journey to better coffee is all about exploration, enjoyment, and – of course – sipping delicious brews. As you venture forth in your coffee adventures, we're here to provide top-notch beans and friendly advice.

Stay curious, mates, and happy brewing!

Shop fresh roasted coffee beans here

 

Shop 25% off our best selling Tasting Packs Here

 


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