Have you ever considered making espresso in a French press? Yes, you read that right! A French press can be used to make a delicious and rich espresso that rivals the ones made with expensive espresso machines. And the best part? You don’t need any special equipment or skills to make it.
In this article, we will guide you through the process of making espresso in a French press. We’ll cover the equipment and ingredients you need, as well as the step-by-step instructions to follow. You’ll learn how to grind and measure the beans, how to let the coffee bloom, and how long to let the espresso brew.
So, let’s get started and discover the world of French press espresso!
Choosing the Right French Press
Making espresso in a French press requires a good quality French press coffee maker. Here are a few things to consider when choosing the right French press for you:
Size
For an espresso-style brew, it is recommended to get a 1-2 cup French press instead of the bigger 8-12 cup French press. You’ll save a lot of time and coffee brewing espresso-style in a smaller French press.
Material
The material of the French press is all personal preference. You can choose between plastic or glass.
- Glass French presses are more durable and will not retain any flavors or odors from previous brews.
- Plastic French presses are lighter and less likely to break if dropped.
Filter Style
The filter style of the French press is also a personal preference. You can choose between metal or nylon filters. Metal filters are more durable and will not need to be replaced as often. Nylon filters are easier to clean and will not leave any sediment in your coffee.
3 Best French Press Coffee Makers
| Brand | Size | Material | Filter Style |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bodum Chambord | 1 cup | Glass | Metal |
| Frieling Double Wall Stainless Steel French Press | 1 cup | Stainless Steel | Metal |
| AeroPress | 1-2 cups | Plastic | Nylon |
These French presses are all great options for making espresso-style coffee in a French press. Choose the one that fits your personal preferences and needs.
How to Make Espresso with French Press
Grinding the Beans
Grinding the coffee beans is an essential step in making espresso with a French press. To achieve the perfect grind, you’ll need to use a coffee grinder that can grind the beans to a medium-fine consistency. This will ensure that you get the right amount of flavor and aroma from your coffee.
When grinding the coffee beans, it is important to measure the right amount of beans for the amount of water you will be using. A good rule of thumb for the correct coffee to water ratio is to use two tablespoons of coffee grounds for every cup of water. This will give you a strong, rich espresso flavor.
There are different types of coffee grinders available, but the two most common are blade grinders and burr grinders. Blade grinders are more affordable, but they can produce an inconsistent grind. Burr grinders, on the other hand, are more expensive but they produce a more consistent grind, which is important for making espresso.
When using a Burr Mill Grinder, you can adjust the grind size to get the perfect consistency for your French press espresso. A finer grind will produce a stronger flavor, while a coarser grind will produce a milder flavor.
Boiling the Water
Many people boil the water and then immediately pour it over the coffee. This is not the ideal way to do it through.
The water needs to be at the right temperature to extract the flavors from the coffee grounds. It’s important to note that the water should not be boiling when you pour it over the coffee grounds.
- If the water is too hot, it can scorch the coffee, resulting in a bitter taste.
- If the water is not hot enough, the coffee will be weak and under-extracted.
So, once the water starts boiling, remove the pot from the heat. Then let the water cool for a few seconds, until it reaches a temperature of around 195-205°F.
Brewing the Espresso
Making espresso with a French press is easy and straightforward. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you brew a perfect cup of espresso:
- Grind your coffee beans to a fine consistency. Use about 1-2 tablespoons of coffee per 4 ounces of water.
- Start by heating water to about 200°F. You can use a thermometer to check the temperature or bring the water to a boil and let it sit for a minute to cool down.
- Put the coffee grounds into the French press and add the hot water, ensuring that all the grounds are wet. Stir the mixture gently to ensure that the coffee is evenly distributed.
- Let the coffee steep for 3-4 minutes, depending on how strong you want your espresso to be.
- Slowly press down the plunger to separate the coffee grounds from the liquid. Make sure to do this slowly and steadily to avoid any spillage.
- Pour the espresso into a cup and enjoy!
It’s important to note that the quality of your coffee beans plays a significant role in the taste and aroma of your espresso. Always use freshly roasted beans and grind them just before brewing for the best results.
Additionally, you can experiment with different brewing times and coffee-to-water ratios to find the perfect balance for your taste buds. Don’t be afraid to try new things and make adjustments until you find your ideal cup of espresso.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Keeping your French press clean is essential to ensure that it continues to brew delicious coffee. Here are some tips to help you maintain your French press:
- After each use, rinse the French press with hot water to remove any coffee grounds.
- Regularly disassemble the French press and wash each part separately with mild soap and hot water. Make sure to clean the mesh filter thoroughly to remove any coffee oils and residue.
- Never put your French press in the dishwasher as it can damage the glass or stainless steel.
- Once every few weeks, consider deep cleaning your French press by soaking it in a solution of hot water and vinegar for 30 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with hot water and let it air dry.
Regular maintenance is also important to keep your French press in good condition. Here are some tips to help you maintain your French press:
- Inspect the mesh filter regularly and replace it if it becomes damaged or worn out.
- Check the plunger and make sure it moves smoothly up and down. If it becomes stiff or difficult to move, disassemble the French press and clean it thoroughly.
- Store your French press in a dry place to prevent rust or mold from forming.
By following these simple tips, you can keep your French press clean and in good working condition for years to come.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about making espresso in a French press:
Can I use regular coffee beans to make espresso in a French press?
You can use regular coffee beans to make espresso in a French press. However, it’s important to note that the resulting drink won’t be a true espresso since the pressure required to extract espresso is much higher than what a French press can provide. But, you can still make a strong and flavorful coffee that resembles espresso.
Do I need a special French press to make espresso?
No, you don’t need a special French press to make espresso. Any standard French press will do. However, it’s recommended to use a larger French press to give you more room to work with and to prevent overflow.
What grind size should I use for making espresso in a French press?
You should use a fine grind size for making espresso in a French press. The finer the grind, the more surface area of the coffee bean is exposed to the water, resulting in a stronger and more flavorful drink. However, be careful not to use too fine of a grind as it can lead to over-extraction and a bitter taste.
How much coffee should I use for making espresso in a French press?
The general rule of thumb is to use a 1:2 coffee to water ratio for making espresso in a French press. This means using 1 part coffee to 2 parts water. For example, if you’re using 20 grams of coffee, you should use 40 grams of water. However, you can adjust the ratio to your liking depending on how strong or weak you prefer your coffee.
How long should I let the coffee steep in the French press?
The recommended steep time for making espresso in a French press is 4 minutes. However, depending on your grind size and personal preference, you may need to adjust the steep time. Be sure to experiment and find the right steep time that works best for you.
My name is Dana Dupree and I am an avid coffee lover. Since I began college and realized what a heavy load writing majors took on, I have been a fan of the bean juice.
My job took me all over the US on book tours and press conferences, and my favorite part about the trip was exploring the best places to grab my cup of Joe.
