You do not need expensive equipment to brew coffee at home that tastes better than a takeaway cup. Fresh beans, a consistent method and clean water do most of the work. Here is how to get started.
Start with fresh beans
Coffee is at its best within a few weeks of roasting. Buy whole beans, such as our Roasted Coffee Beans 1kg, and grind them just before brewing. Store them in an airtight container away from light and heat.
Get the ratio right
A good starting point is one part coffee to sixteen parts water. That is about 15 grams of coffee for 240 millilitres of water. A cheap kitchen scale makes this easy and repeatable.
Choose the right grind
- Coarse for a French press.
- Medium for drip machines and pour-over.
- Fine for espresso and moka pots.
If it tastes bitter or sour
Bitter coffee usually means the grind is too fine or the brew is too long. Sour coffee means the opposite. Change one thing at a time.
Mind the water
Use filtered water if your tap water has a strong taste. Aim for about 92 to 96 degrees, which is just off the boil. Water that is too hot can burn the coffee.
A simple pour-over method
- Rinse the paper filter with hot water.
- Add your ground coffee and pour a small amount of water to let it bloom for 30 seconds.
- Pour the rest slowly in circles.
- Finish in about three minutes.
Keep your gear clean
Old oils make coffee taste stale, so rinse your equipment after every use. To learn about the history of the drink, see this article on coffee. It only takes a few tries to brew coffee at home that you truly enjoy.
Key takeaways
- Take your time and compare a few options before you decide.
- Read the product details and the reviews from other shoppers.
- Check the returns policy so you can change your mind if needed.
- Ask our team through the contact page if you would like help choosing.
Whatever you pick, a little research saves money and avoids regret. Browse the full shop whenever you are ready, and check back on the blog for more practical guides.