How to Make Coffee
Master drip, French press, and pour over coffee brewing at home
⚡Quick Answer
Ratio: 1-2 tbsp coffee per 6 oz water. Water temp: 195-205°F. Drip: 4-6 min. French press: 4 min with coarse grind. Pour over: 3-4 min with bloom.
Step-by-Step Guide
The Golden Ratio
Use 1-2 tablespoons of ground coffee per 6 oz of water (or 15-18g coffee per 250ml). Adjust to taste: more coffee = stronger, less = milder.
Drip Coffee Maker
Add filter and coffee grounds. Fill reservoir with cold water. Press start. Brew time: 4-6 minutes. Coffee stays warm on hot plate.
French Press
Add coarse grounds. Pour 200°F water (just off boil). Stir gently. Wait 4 minutes. Press plunger slowly. Pour immediately.
Pour Over (V60, Chemex)
Rinse filter with hot water. Add medium-fine grounds. Pour small amount of water to bloom for 30 seconds. Slowly pour remaining water in circles. Total time: 3-4 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best water temperature for coffee?
195-205°F (90-96°C) is ideal. Boiling water (212°F) can over-extract and taste bitter. If you don't have a thermometer, let boiling water sit for 30 seconds.
How fine should I grind coffee?
Drip: Medium (like sand). French press: Coarse (like sea salt). Pour over: Medium-fine. Espresso: Very fine. Wrong grind size = weak or bitter coffee.
Why does my coffee taste bitter?
Common causes: Over-extraction (too long brew time, too fine grind, too hot water), stale beans, dirty equipment, or too much coffee. Try adjusting one variable at a time.