One of the best secrets to a great tasting coffee is proper coffee brewing ratio. You may buy the finest Kona coffee, but if the brewing is not done correctly, you’ll ruin the otherwise excellent coffee.
Yes, you may have purchased first-rate coffee beans, but it doesn’t end in just pushing the button of your percolator.
As a general rule, if you want exquisite coffee, fill your percolator to its 30-cup mark with cold water and load it with-
- 1 3/4 cups of ground coffee if you want a regular-strength coffee
- 2 cups if you prefer strong coffee
- 2 1/2 cups coffee for double strength
This ratio will produce 30 cups of coffee measuring 5 ½ ounces each.
Factors to Consider When Brewing:
Roasts
Darker roasts are more intense than lighter roasts. So, it’s important to consider how you would like to drink your coffee. You may prefer a delicate brew or more intense ones, so the ratio will depend on the coffee and your preference. The key is to find the right balance for your cup. Take time to smell the aromas, fragrances, and flavors that will please your refined palate so you can enjoy your drink.
Brewing time
Percolators brew at high temperature, so your coffee may end up with a bitter taste due to over-extraction. To avoid producing a bitter brew, make sure that you carefully control the brewing process.
To be on the safe side, allow your coffee to percolate for 10 minutes or less; just enough time before it starts boiling. Remember that boiling may lead to over-extraction.
If you are not sure about the drinking ratio, simply add hot water to the infusion after brewing to dilute the coffee. It will reduce the brew’s concertation and flavor intensity. Don’t be afraid to experiment when it comes to your drinking ratios until you get your ideal brew.
Anthony is a professional barista in the city of Chicago. He has written for many online publications on various topics related to coffee.