How to Use the BaristasBuddy French Press
The Parisian French press is simple to use. Follow the steps below to make a delicious brew every time.
Step 1: Start by boiling your water. The ideal temperature for making coffee in a French press is between boiling and hot. If you want to get scientific, somewhere between 190 and 205°F or (88-96°C). If you're not using a temperature controlled kettle, you can simply boil your water, then let it sit for one minute and the water should be good to go.
Step 2: While your water is boiling, grind your beans. We recommend using a scale to weigh your coffee to ensure the strength is as you like it. To start with, try a ratio of 1:12 of coffee to water.
If grinding your own beans, select a coarse grind setting. Your ground coffee should look like the image below.
We always suggest to buy freshly roasted beans from a local coffee shop or roastery. However, if you are using store bought coffee, choose a variety that has been ground specifically for French press.
Some grocery store pre-ground coffees will be too fine to use in a French press. This may result in a more bitter cup and more coffee grounds getting through the filter.
Our French presses hold a maximum of about 980ml of water. So if you are making a full pot, you would need 980/12 = 81.6g of ground coffee.
Here's a quick snapshot for 1, 2, 3 or 4 cups.
Water | Ground Coffee |
---|---|
8oz / 236ml / 1 cup | 20g |
16oz / 472ml / 2 cups | 39g |
24oz / 708ml / 3 cups | 59g |
32oz / 944ml / 4 cups | 79g |
If you don't have a coffee scale or measuring spoon, a general guideline is to use 1 to 2 tablespoons of coarsely ground coffee per 4-ounce 120ml cup of water. Start with 2 tablespoons if you like it strong or a single tablespoon if you like it a little weaker.
Step 3: Preheat your French press for one minute. By preheating with boiling water, you will ensure your coffee stays hotter for longer.
Step 4: Discard the water used for preheating and put the ground coffee into the carafe.
Step 5: Pour your hot water into the French press. If you desire a full pot, fill to half an inch below the 34oz / 1 liter marking inside the French press. Ensure all your grounds are well soaked.
Now place the lid on the French press and set a timer for 5 minutes.
Important: Do not fill to the 34oz mark as this will result in spillage when using the plunger.
Step 6: After the 5 minutes has elapsed, press the plunger down gently until it reaches the bottom of the carafe. Plunging slowly will produce the cleanest cup and avoid any particles leaking into the final brew.
Step 7: Pour and enjoy.
Step 8: After finishing your brew, dispose of any used grounds and clean the French press thoroughly. Watch our video on the best way to care for and maintain your Parisian French press.
And that's it! By following these simple steps, you can enjoy a delicious cup of coffee made with a French press.
Of course, there are many different ways to use a French press coffee maker and the above guide is a good starting point. Follow us on Youtube for more recipe ideas and FAQs on how to get the most out of the BaristasBuddy French press.