In today's article, we explain what the AeroPress is and how to brew coffee with it . Alternative coffee brewing methods have captured the hearts of quality enthusiasts for good reason. The AeroPress is the next step for those exploring the subject of good coffee – this unassuming device allows you to experiment with the effects of brewing freshly ground beans, even while traveling. Discover the possibilities the AeroPress offers and how to brew coffee better than at your favorite café.

What is AeroPress?

Before we get to how to brew coffee with the AeroPress, it's time for a quick reminder or definition for beginners. The AeroPress is a relatively new device that joined the ranks of alternative coffee brewing methods in 2005 , gaining recognition not only among hipsters hailing from Berlin coffee shops. Its syringe-like appearance adds character and allows you to enjoy quality specialty coffee even while traveling. The AeroPress's advantage is its versatility – you can brew both whole bean espresso coffees and the highest quality single-origin coffees. It's an obvious choice for those who hate limitations, perfect proportions, and a single, correct method of coffee preparation.

The only limitation of the AeroPress is the amount of coffee prepared - the device allows you to brew a maximum of just over 200 ml of coffee.

What do AeroPress and Frisbee have in common?

Alan Adler, the creator of the Aerobie—a flying hoop used in sports similar to Frisbee. The same man designed the AeroPress. Initially, the device didn't appeal to coffee geeks, dissatisfied with the relatively low brewing temperature. It's the power of the internet that has you wondering how to use the AeroPress today .

What do you need to brew coffee in an AeroPress?

Brewing coffee with an AeroPress is simple , but the device alone isn't enough to create a good brew. Therefore, it's worth stocking up on products and accessories such as:

• freshly roasted coffee beans – 100% Arabica and so-called singles, i.e. coffees from one region, are best,
• burr coffee grinder – check out our selection of coffee grinders , and avoid the blade grinders at all costs, as they destroy the beans,
• jug – there is a lot of freedom in this matter, although we especially recommend Hario and Loveramics coffee jugs ,
• scale – a regular kitchen scale will suffice, but for lovers of good design we recommend special coffee scales ,
• paper filters.

Compared to other alternative coffee brewing methods, the AeroPress is a relatively cheap device – of course, you'll pay a bit more for the accessories, but it's an investment worth your money if you want to drink really good coffee.

How to brew coffee in AeroPress?

We're getting to the heart of the matter: how to brew coffee in an AeroPress and how this device works . It looks like a syringe and should be used in exactly the same way. The AeroPress consists of a cylinder, a piston, and a strainer with a filter through which the prepared coffee is pressed. How do you brew coffee in such a device ? There are many possibilities, so to get you started, here are the two most popular methods – classic and inverted .

Classic method

Below you will find tips on how to make coffee in the AeroPress using the classic method.

1. Insert the seal into the tube and place the paper filter on the round strainer. It's a good idea to rinse the filter with hot water to neutralize the paper taste. Rinse the AeroPress in the same way to warm it up, then pour out the water.
2. Using a scale, measure out 18 grams of freshly roasted coffee beans (speciality or espresso). Grind the beans to a coarseness comparable to table salt.
3. Place ground coffee in the machine and pour 30-40 ml of hot water at 90 degrees Celsius over it (pre-soaking the beans). After 30 seconds, add the remaining water and wait a minute or two.
4. Place the plunger onto the cylinder and slowly, smoothly press the coffee into the jug. Stop when you hear the characteristic hissing sound.

Reverse method

1. Prepare 18 g of coffee beans and grind them into fine sand.
2. Position the plunger so that the rubber tip is at the top and gently insert the tube.
3. Prepare hot, filtered water at a temperature of approximately 90 degrees Celsius and pour the ground coffee into the AeroPress.
4. Pour 30-40 ml of water over the coffee, stir, and wait 30 seconds. Pour in the remaining water, using circular motions.
5. Place the strainer with the paper filter on the top of the tube and tighten it.
6. Turn the AeroPress towards the cup and press the coffee until you hear a characteristic hissing sound.

It's worth trying each of these coffee preparation methods. With experience, you'll not only learn how to brew coffee in the AeroPress but also achieve infusions with different flavor notes. Remember to pre-steep the coffee, which coffee geeks call pre-infusion. This allows for easier leaching of soluble substances and the release of carbon dioxide from the coffee.

How is AeroPress different from other coffee brewing methods?

Alternative coffee brewing methods are often met with reluctance by espresso lovers – pour-overs tend to have a delicate body, or body, that makes the brews more reminiscent of tea than a black coffee. The AeroPress allows for a fuller-bodied coffee , making the brew more intense, thicker, and less drip-like.

As a coffee roaster, we also appreciate that the AeroPress allows you to experiment with grind size , water volume, and brewing methods. As with any alternative, it's important to know how many grams of coffee to prepare for the AeroPress per 100 ml of water (16-18 grams), but there's no need to stick to a strict ratio. It's also important that the AeroPress accentuates the acidity of the brew, and the brewing time is shorter than with other methods. And it's easy to clean in the dishwasher.

Advantages of using AeroPress

• Versatility – AeroPress is a versatile device that will work well both in a café and during a mountain trip.
• Lightness and durability, which is harder to find in the case of the Chemex.
• The intensity of the brew – AeroPress will also be appreciated by espresso lovers.
• Easy to clean – warm running water is really enough, although a dishwasher will also work.
• Freedom – AeroPress is the perfect toy for experimenting with coffee.

The AeroPress makes a perfect gift for someone who is just starting out with alternative coffee brewing methods or just likes gadgets – it's reasonably priced and yet hard to get bored with.

Summary

Just like the question of whether coffee is healthy , there's no single answer to the question of how to brew coffee with the AeroPress —we believe this is one of the reasons why this device is so popular. As a coffee roaster, we remind you that the key to a good alternative is high-quality beans. In our shop, you'll find a selection of coffees from various regions of the world, each with its own unique flavor.

Phenomenal photos: Jacek Petryszak