Rediscovering Coffee: The Joy of Pour Over Brewing

For years, I settled for convenience over quality, relying on my trusty Keurig and its range of pre-packaged coffee pods. The ritual of brewing coffee became nothing more than a hurried morning necessity. Little did I know, I was missing out on a rich, nuanced world of flavor and aroma waiting to be explored. My journey back to coffee appreciation began when I discovered the art of pour over brewing—a method that has transformed my morning routine and rekindled my love for coffee.

The Pour Over Experience

The pour over method is not just a brewing technique; it’s an experience. Unlike the fast-paced approach of single-serve machines, pour over invites you to slow down, engage with the process, and appreciate each step. The beauty of this method lies in its simplicity and the control it offers over every aspect of brewing, from water temperature to coffee grind size.

1. Choosing the Right Equipment

To begin your pour over journey, you’ll need a few essential tools:

• Pour Over Brewer: Options like the Hario V60, Chemex, or Kalita Wave are popular for their ability to produce a clean and flavorful cup. I use a Chemex.
• Coffee Scale: A digital scale ensures precise measurements for consistency.
• Kettle: A gooseneck kettle allows for controlled pouring, essential for even extraction.
• Filter: Depending on your brewer, use the appropriate filter type (paper or metal).

2. Selecting Your Coffee Beans

The first step in making a great pour over is choosing high-quality, freshly roasted coffee beans. After years of mediocre coffee, I ventured into local roasteries and began exploring different varieties. I discovered that factors such as origin, processing method, and roast level dramatically influence flavor profiles.

Currently, my favorite coffee is Philz Coffee’s Philtered Soul. This unique blend is a delightful combination of dark chocolate, toasted nuts, and a hint of berry sweetness, making it a perfect choice for my pour over method. The complexity and richness of Philtered Soul not only awaken my senses but also elevate my daily coffee ritual into something truly special.

The Pour Over Process

Once you’ve selected your beans, it’s time to brew. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the perfect pour over coffee:

1. Measure Your Ingredients

For optimal flavor, use a coffee-to-water ratio of 1:22. For every 22 grams of coffee, you will need 500 grams of water. This ratio strikes a balance that allows the coffee’s full flavor to emerge.

2. Grind Your Coffee

Grind your coffee to a medium-coarse consistency, similar to granulated sugar. Freshly ground coffee is crucial; the flavor begins to diminish once beans are ground.

3. Heat the Water

The ideal water temperature for brewing pour over coffee is around 100 degrees Celsius (or about 200 degrees Fahrenheit). This temperature extracts the coffee’s oils and flavors without scalding the grounds. A thermometer can help ensure precision, but if you don’t have one, bring your water to a boil and let it sit for about 30 seconds.

4. Prepare Your Brewer

Place your pour over brewer on top of your coffee mug or carafe. Insert a filter and rinse it with hot water to eliminate any paper taste and preheat the brewer.

5. Bloom the Coffee

Add the ground coffee to the filter and create a small well in the center. Start by pouring just enough hot water (about 50-60 grams) over the grounds to saturate them. This is called the “bloom” phase, allowing gases to escape and enhancing flavor extraction. Wait for 30 seconds.

6. The Pouring Technique

After blooming, begin pouring water slowly and steadily in a circular motion, starting from the center and moving outward. Aim for a total of 500 grams of water over about 3-4 minutes. This method ensures even saturation and extraction.

7. Enjoy Your Coffee

Once the brewing is complete and the water has drained through the coffee grounds, remove the brewer and savor your freshly brewed pour over. Take a moment to inhale the rich aroma before tasting the complex flavors you’ve unlocked.

Falling in Love with Coffee Again

Transitioning to pour over coffee has been a revelation. Each cup tells a story, a narrative shaped by the beans’ origin and the brewing process. I’ve learned to appreciate the subtle nuances—floral hints, fruity undertones, and rich, chocolatey finishes. No longer was I consuming coffee as a mere caffeine fix; I was embarking on a sensory journey.

Exploring various bean varieties became a delightful pastime. I sought out single-origin coffees and sought recommendations from knowledgeable baristas, leading to the discovery of beans I never would have tried otherwise. With each new coffee, I was reminded of the beauty and diversity within this beloved beverage. Philz Coffee’s Philtered Soul has been a standout in my collection, bringing a unique blend of flavors that consistently delights my palate.

The experience of pour over coffee has not only enhanced my appreciation for the drink itself but has also taught me patience and mindfulness. It invites me to slow down and savor each moment, transforming my mornings into a pleasurable ritual rather than a rushed necessity.

If you find yourself in a coffee rut, consider giving pour over brewing a try. With the right tools, ingredients, and a willingness to experiment, you may just rediscover a love for coffee that you thought was lost. Your journey through the world of flavors and aromas awaits—one cup at a time. And for those ready to embark on this adventure, I highly recommend starting with Philz Coffee’s Philtered Soul—an unforgettable introduction to the world of exceptional coffee.

P.S. - Philz Coffee has free shipping if you subscribe. You can have fresh beans delivered right to your door and choose the frequency. The ‘Suprise Me’ subscription is a great way to find your favorite. Enjoy!