The Coffee Kits

Chemex Coffee Makers: A Beginner's Guide

Are you a coffee lover looking for a unique and delicious brewing method? Look no further than the Chemex coffee maker. This elegant and simple device has been a favorite of coffee aficionados for decades, and for good reason. In this beginner's guide, we'll explore the history of the Chemex, how it works, and how to use it to brew the perfect cup of coffee every time.

History of the Chemex

The Chemex was invented in 1941 by German chemist Peter Schlumbohm. Schlumbohm was passionate about creating a coffee maker that not only brewed great-tasting coffee but also looked beautiful on the kitchen counter. His design was simple yet elegant: a glass vessel shaped like an hourglass, with a wooden collar and leather tie to hold a paper filter in place. Schlumbohm's Chemex was an instant hit, winning the Museum of Modern Art's Good Design Award in 1943 and becoming a beloved fixture in coffee shops and homes around the world.

How the Chemex Works

The Chemex is a pour-over coffee maker, which means that you control the brewing process by pouring hot water over coffee grounds that are held in a paper filter. The coffee then drips through the filter into the glass vessel below. The Chemex's unique hourglass shape and thick paper filters create a slow and steady extraction process that brings out the full flavor and complexity of your coffee beans.

Using a Chemex

Using a Chemex is easy, but it does take a bit of practice to get the perfect cup. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Step 1:

Boil water and let it cool for a minute or two. You want the water to be between 195-205 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 2:

Place a paper filter in the Chemex. Rinse the filter with hot water to remove any paper taste and preheat the vessel.

Step 3:

Add your coffee grounds to the filter. A good starting point is 1 tablespoon of coffee per 5 ounces of water.

Step 4:

Slowly pour hot water over the coffee grounds, starting in the center and working your way outwards in concentric circles. Be careful not to pour too much water too quickly, as this can cause the coffee to over-extract and become bitter.

Step 5:

Let the coffee drip through the filter into the Chemex. This process can take anywhere from 3-5 minutes.

Step 6:

Once all the water has dripped through, remove the filter and discard it. Pour your coffee into your favorite mug and enjoy!

Tips for Using a Chemex

Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your Chemex:

Tip 1:

Use fresh, high-quality coffee beans. The Chemex's slow extraction process can bring out the subtle flavors and aromas of your coffee, so it's worth investing in good beans.

Tip 2:

Experiment with your grind size. The Chemex works best with a medium-fine grind, but you can adjust the grind to suit your taste preferences.

Tip 3:

Pour water slowly and steadily. This will help ensure an even extraction and prevent over-extraction.

Conclusion

The Chemex is a timeless classic in the world of coffee brewing. Its elegant design and unique brewing process make it a favorite among coffee lovers around the world. With a bit of practice and experimentation, you can use your Chemex to brew a delicious cup of coffee that rivals anything you'll find in a coffee shop. So why not give it a try?