The Coffee Kits

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Fold a Chemex Filter Perfectly Every Time

If you are a coffee lover, you are probably familiar with the Chemex coffee maker. It is a simple yet elegant brewing device that produces a clean and flavorful cup of coffee. One of the most important components of the Chemex brewing process is the paper filter. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to fold a Chemex filter perfectly every time.

Step 1: Choose the Right Filter

The first step in folding a Chemex filter is to choose the right filter. Chemex filters are available in two types: natural and bleached. Natural filters are unbleached and have a brownish color, while bleached filters are white. Both types of filters work well, but some people prefer the natural filters because they believe they impart less of a paper taste to the coffee.

Step 2: Pre-Wet the Filter

After choosing the filter, the next step is to pre-wet it. This step is important because it removes any paper taste from the filter and warms up the Chemex. To pre-wet the filter, place it inside the Chemex and pour hot water over it. Make sure to pour enough water to wet the entire filter. Then, pour the water out of the Chemex.

Step 3: Fold the Filter

Now it's time to fold the filter. Start by placing the filter on a flat surface with the three-layered side facing the spout of the Chemex. The three-layered side is the side with the thicker edge. Then, fold the filter in half, making sure that the folded edge is opposite the spout.

Step 4: Fold the Filter Again

After folding the filter in half, fold it again in the same direction, creating a cone shape. Make sure that the pointy end of the cone is small enough to fit inside the spout of the Chemex.

Step 5: Place the Filter in the Chemex

Now that the filter is folded, it's time to place it in the Chemex. Hold the filter by the top edges and place it inside the Chemex with the folded edge facing the spout. Make sure that the filter is centered in the Chemex and that the pointy end of the cone is inside the spout.

Step 6: Add Coffee

After placing the filter in the Chemex, it's time to add coffee. The amount of coffee you use will depend on your preference and the size of your Chemex. A general guideline is to use 1 gram of coffee per 15 grams of water. So, for example, if you are using a 6-cup Chemex, which holds 900 grams of water, you would use 60 grams of coffee.

Step 7: Brew the Coffee

Finally, it's time to brew the coffee. Start by pouring a small amount of hot water over the coffee, just enough to wet it. Then, wait 30 seconds to allow the coffee to bloom, or release gas. This step is important because it helps to extract the flavors and aromas from the coffee. After 30 seconds, slowly pour hot water over the coffee in a circular motion, making sure to wet all the grounds. Continue pouring until the desired amount of coffee is brewed.

Conclusion

Folding a Chemex filter may seem like a small detail, but it can have a big impact on the flavor of your coffee. By following this step-by-step guide, you can ensure that your Chemex filter is folded perfectly every time, resulting in a clean and flavorful cup of coffee.