The Coffee Kits

The Science Behind Chemex Coffee: How It Works and Why It's So Good

Coffee lovers around the world have a deep appreciation for the art of brewing. Whether it's a pour-over, French press, or espresso, there's something special about the process. One brewing method that has gained popularity in recent years is the Chemex coffee maker. This unique device looks like a laboratory beaker and uses a special paper filter to create a smooth and flavorful cup of coffee. But what makes Chemex coffee so good? Let's take a closer look at the science behind this brewing method.

The Chemex Design:

The Chemex coffee maker was invented in 1941 by Peter Schlumbohm, a German chemist living in the United States. Schlumbohm was inspired by the principles of chemistry and wanted to create a coffee maker that would produce a perfect cup of coffee every time. The Chemex design is simple yet effective. It consists of a glass container with a narrow neck and a wooden collar tied around it with a leather strap. The special paper filter sits at the top, and the coffee is brewed directly into the glass container.

The Paper Filter:

One of the key components of the Chemex brewing method is the paper filter. Unlike other coffee makers that use metal or cloth filters, the Chemex uses a thick, bonded paper filter. The paper is 20-30% thicker than most other coffee filters and is designed to remove even the finest sediment and oils from the coffee. This results in a clean and smooth cup of coffee with no bitterness or aftertaste.

The Grind:

The Chemex coffee maker requires a specific grind size to produce the best results. The coffee should be ground to a medium-coarse consistency, similar to sea salt. This grind size allows for the perfect extraction of the coffee flavors without over-extracting and causing bitterness. It's essential to use a burr grinder to achieve the perfect grind size, as a blade grinder can produce uneven particle sizes.

The Water:

The water used in the Chemex brewing method is also crucial. It should be heated to just below boiling point, around 200°F or 93°C. The water should be poured slowly over the grounds in a circular motion, allowing the coffee to bloom and release its flavors. The ideal ratio of coffee to water is 1:15, which means one gram of coffee for every 15 grams of water. This ratio can be adjusted to suit personal taste preferences.

Conclusion:

The Chemex brewing method is a unique and enjoyable way to make coffee. Its simple yet effective design, combined with the thick paper filter and specific grind size, produces a clean and smooth cup of coffee with no bitterness or aftertaste. The science behind the Chemex is fascinating, and it's clear why it has become a favorite among coffee enthusiasts worldwide.