The Art of The French Press: Tips & Tutorial

A comforting morning ritual keeps me grounded and helps set my day on the right path—have you found similar benefits in your life? For those who look forward to their morning cup of coffee, the French press may be your new best friend. The experience is enjoyable and easier than you may think. A girlfriend recently stopped by for a visit and helped me film a short tutorial (on my Reels and far below). It’s as easy as finding your favorite coffee bean whole or in a bag, and getting started.

Select Your Coffee

If you are buying your coffee in a bag, select a medium to dark roast, coarse grind.

Grind Your Beans

If you’re starting with whole coffee beans, grind until they are the texture of sea salt or Panko breadcrumbs. Too fine a grind will leave the coffee tasting bitter.

Measure & Place Coffee Into Your Press

Depending on the size of your French press:

Use 2 Tbsp. for a small pot,
3 to 4 Tbsp. for a medium press, and
5 to 6 Tbsp. for a large French press

Time to Bloom

Now it’s time to let it “bloom,” which is where some people may get thrown off. Bloom simply means allowing a small amount of water to cover the grounds in order to release CO₂ for approximately 30 seconds.

Add the Remaining Water

Add the remaining water to the press and stir immediately after. Allow the coffee to steep for approximately 3 minutes. Time may vary depending on your personal taste and strength you prefer. Push the plunger down very slowly.

Enjoy

Grab your favorite coffee cup. When taking my coffee in a French press, I prefer a cup and saucer rather than a mug. It makes the experience feel more special. Serve immediately. Don’t allow the coffee to sit in the press for an extended period of time because it will continue to brew and become bitter.

Keep in Mind:

Overly heated water results in a bitter brew. A good rule of thumb if you don’t have a thermometer (200 degrees F) is to bring the water to a boil, then let it stand for a few seconds to allow the water to slightly cool down. It still needs to be hot when you pour over the grounds.
Wash the French press thoroughly. To avoid residual grounds and coffee oils from building up in the press, clean your French press thoroughly. Scoop out the grounds and add to your compost.
Use a mild dish soap and disassemble the filter, plunger and rod to ensure you clean each part carefully, rinsing with warm water and allowing the parts to air dry.
Reassemble. When all of the parts are completely dry, put the French press back together for your next coffee experience.

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