The Chemex brewer is a classic choice for those who appreciate both form and function in their coffee-making process. This guide is tailored for an 8-cup Chemex unit and will help you master the art of brewing with this iconic device.
Equipment You'll Need
- 8-Cup Chemex carafe
- Chemex filters
- Kettle
- Grinder
- Digital scale
- Timer
- Stir Stick
Step-by-Step Guide
- Prep and Preheat: Place the Chemex filter in the brewer and rinse it with hot water to seal it and remove any paper taste. Dump the rinse water.
- Weigh and Grind Coffee: Add 42g or about 6 tablespoons of coffee, ground to a coarseness resembling Kosher salt.
- Saturate Grounds: Start the timer and pour hot water until all the grounds are saturated or until you reach about 150g. Stir with a stir stick to eliminate dry clumps.
- Second Pour: At 45 seconds, start the second pour, aiming for a volume about a fingertip down from the top of the rim or 450g of water.
- Final Pour: At 1:45, fill the brewer flush to the top or about 700g of water.
- Wait for It to Brew: By 4 minutes, you should be close to the desired volume. Lift the filter and let it drain.
Troubleshooting
- Brew Too Fast: If the brew was too fast, consider using a finer grind or a slower pour rate.
- Brew Too Slow: If the brew was too slow, consider using a coarser grind or a faster pour rate.
Pro Tips
- The Spiral Technique: The spiral pouring technique is crucial for even extraction. Make sure to spiral both outward and inward for optimal results.
- Bloom Importance: Don't skip the bloom. It ensures even saturation and a more nuanced cup.