The idea behind cold brew, is that the coffee is not only served cold, it also is prepared cold. Because no heat is used, the end product is sweeter and contains less bitterness and acidity which makes this extraction an invigorating and delicious refreshment. In addition, cold brew is, because of its low level in acidity, more tolerant for stomach and teeth.
A cold brew introduction
Cold brew is everyday in America and is now conquering Europe.
Everyone knows ice coffee (= hot espresso chilled on ice). Cold brew replaces the heat with time. More specifically, it may take 6 to 24 hours until cold brew is ready. The result makes waiting worthwhile.
The idea behind cold brew, is that the coffee is not only served cold, it also is prepared cold. Because no heat is used, the end product is sweeter and contains less bitterness and acidity which makes this extraction an invigorating and delicious refreshment. In addition, cold brew is, because of its low level in acidity, more tolerant for stomach and teeth.
The different flavors that are present in coffee beans make cold brew a fascinating drink for coffee geeks and baristas. No other coffee brewing method emphasizes the deepest flavors of chocolate, caramel, citrus, berries, and spicy notes. You can experiment with origins, grammage, extraction time and grind thickness until you find your perfect cold brew. The possibilities are truly called endless. In addition, cold brew can be stored for
days refrigerated and in a closed environment. I drink cold brew mainly out of a tumbler. Ideal during a long drive to work. I enjoy a nice cold brew, full of caffeine without falling asleep.
How to prepare cold brew?
Cold brew can be prepared in various ways. The best aromatic and flavored cold brew is achieved, drip by drip, by means of a cold drip. The simplest way is by means of a French Press or Toddy system.
Grind 50 g of (coarse) coffee . Put the ground coffee in the french press and add half a liter of water. Do you have a 1 L french press then double the normal amount. (no rocket science :). Stir well with a spoon so that all the ground coffee is mixed with the water. Allow the extraction to take place for 12 to 24 hours in a refrigerator. In order to allow a proper extraction, you can stir the coffee with a spoon after a few hours.
Once the ground coffee beans have done their job, just push the membrane of the press down and your Cold brew can be served.
How to drink cold brew?
Of course it all depends on personal taste. I like to drink cold brew with cane sugar sirup (monin), soy milk over ice. Others like it straight on the rocks or in a cocktail.
Experimenting is the message. Both with origins, level of grinding and extraction time.
Let me know your experience!
Kind regards, Dries