The Coffee Kits

Common mistakes to avoid when brewing Japanese iced coffee with Chemex

Are you a fan of Japanese iced coffee? Do you enjoy the unique taste and aroma that comes with brewing your coffee using a Chemex? If so, then you know how important it is to get the brewing process just right. However, there are some common mistakes that people make when brewing Japanese iced coffee with Chemex that can lead to a less than satisfactory cup of coffee. In this article, we will explore some of these mistakes and how to avoid them.

Using the wrong coffee beans

One of the most common mistakes people make when brewing Japanese iced coffee with Chemex is using the wrong coffee beans. The type of coffee beans you use can make a huge difference in the taste and aroma of your coffee. When it comes to Japanese iced coffee, it's best to use light to medium roast beans. Dark roast beans tend to have a bitter taste that doesn't work well with the iced coffee.

Not using enough coffee

Another mistake people make is not using enough coffee. When brewing Japanese iced coffee with Chemex, you need to use a higher coffee-to-water ratio than you would with hot coffee. The ideal ratio is 1:15 - 1:17, meaning 1 gram of coffee to 15-17 grams of water. If you don't use enough coffee, your coffee will be weak and lack the flavor you want.

Using the wrong grind size

The grind size of your coffee beans is also crucial when brewing Japanese iced coffee with Chemex. If the coffee is ground too coarse, your coffee will be weak and lack flavor. If the coffee is ground too fine, it will be over-extracted and taste bitter. The ideal grind size for Chemex is medium-coarse, similar to sea salt.

Not pre-wetting the filter

When using a Chemex, it's important to pre-wet the filter before adding the coffee. This helps to remove any paper flavor from the filter and also helps to ensure an even extraction. Simply pour hot water over the filter and let it drain before adding the coffee.

Not using the right water temperature

Water temperature is another crucial factor when brewing Japanese iced coffee with Chemex. The ideal water temperature is between 195-205°F (90-96°C). If the water is too hot, it will over-extract the coffee and taste bitter. If the water is too cold, it will under-extract the coffee and taste weak.

Not stirring the coffee

Finally, it's important to stir the coffee grounds during the brewing process. This helps to ensure an even extraction and a consistent flavor throughout the coffee. Simply use a wooden spoon to gently stir the coffee grounds after pouring in the water.

Conclusion

Brewing Japanese iced coffee with Chemex can be a fun and rewarding experience. However, it's important to avoid these common mistakes in order to achieve the perfect cup of coffee. By using the right coffee beans, using enough coffee, using the right grind size, pre-wetting the filter, using the right water temperature, and stirring the coffee, you can create a delicious and refreshing cup of Japanese iced coffee with Chemex.