Enhance Your Coffee Experience with a Chemex in Your Coffee Extraction Routine.
- Kerry Wiemokly
- Jul 29
- 4 min read
Updated: Aug 13
Brewing coffee is more than just a routine; it’s an enjoyable ritual. When you use a Chemex pour-over, the experience transforms into something special. The Chemex, known for its beautiful design and ability to create a clean, flavorful cup, is ideal for coffee aficionados. Whether you're a seasoned expert or just starting your journey, this guide will help you brew the perfect Chemex pour-over using beans from Kenya, Papua New Guinea, and Colombia. Grab your Chemex and favorite beans, and let's get started!
Why Choose a Chemex?
The Chemex coffee maker isn’t just a functional brewing device; it’s a stylish addition to your kitchen. Its elegant glass body and wooden collar attract coffee lovers and design enthusiasts alike. More than just looks, the Chemex uses thick, specially designed filters that effectively trap oils and sediments, resulting in a cup with a clean and crisp flavor. This method can elevate your morning routine into a sophisticated experience.
By following a few simple steps, you can brew a cup that rivals the work of baristas at local coffee shops.
Selecting the Right Beans
Exploring Flavor Profiles
The choice of beans is essential when using a Chemex, as each region offers distinct flavors:
Kenya Beans: Renowned for their bright acidity and fruity notes, Kenyan coffee often reveals flavors like black currant and citrus. For instance, a popular Kenyan coffee, SL28, is appreciated for its vibrant berry notes and complex acidity, making it perfect for the Chemex’s clean brewing.
Papua New Guinea Beans: Typically known for their mild and creamy taste, these beans exhibit earthy and herbal tones with subtle sweetness. A notable example is the Sigri coffee, which can produce a smooth cup with a rich, velvety mouthfeel when brewed using the Chemex.
Colombia Beans: Often medium-bodied, Colombian coffee features rich flavors with hints of caramel, nuts, and fruit. A classic Colombian coffee, such as Excelso, benefits from the Chemex's clarity, highlighting its smooth and rounded profile.
Understanding these individual characteristics can help you select the beans that best match your flavor preferences.
Gathering Your Supplies
To brew a perfect Chemex cup, gather these essential supplies:
Chemex Coffee Maker
Chemex Filters: Use the official filters designed for your Chemex.
Coffee Beans: Choose Kenya, Papua New Guinea, or Colombia beans based on your flavor preference.
Grinder: A burr grinder provides an even grind size for optimal extraction.
Kettle: A gooseneck kettle gives you control over the pouring process.
Scale: Accurately measure coffee and water for consistent results.
Timer: Keep track of your brewing time for precision.
Having the right equipment will ensure a flavorful experience and make the brewing process smoother.
The Brewing Process
Step 1: Measure the Coffee and Water
For your Chemex brew, the recommended coffee-to-water ratio is 1:15 for an optimal cup. For example, if you use 30 grams of coffee, you will need about 450 grams (or ml) of water. Carefully weigh your coffee and water using your scale to hit the ideal balance.
Step 2: Grind Your Coffee
Grind your coffee to a medium-coarse texture that resembles sea salt. This consistency is crucial as it allows for optimal extraction during brewing. Aim for a particle size that ensures even brewing and enhances flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Chemex
Place a Chemex filter in the top of the brewer, making sure the thicker side of the filter is against the spout.
Rinse the filter with hot water. This warms up the Chemex and removes any paper taste. Discard the rinse water when done.
Step 4: Bloom the Coffee
Add your ground coffee to the filter and gently shake it to level the grounds. Start your timer and pour an amount of hot water equal to about twice the weight of your coffee. For 30 grams of coffee, use around 60 grams of water. This blooming phase allows the coffee beans to release carbon dioxide and enhances flavor extraction. Wait about 30 seconds before proceeding.
Step 5: Pour the Remaining Water
After blooming, slowly pour the remaining water over the coffee in a circular motion. Make sure all grounds are saturated as you pour. Aim to finish pouring around the 3-minute mark for the best extraction.
Step 6: Let It Drip
Allow the coffee to fully drip through the filter. The total brewing time should be between 4 to 5 minutes. Once the dripping is complete, remove the filter and prepare to enjoy your fresh brew!
Step 7: Savor the Flavor
Take time to appreciate the aroma and flavor of your coffee. Each bean type presents unique tasting notes, so experiment with different origins and methods. For instance, a Kenyan bean might give you a fruity cup, while a Papua New Guinea bean could offer a creamy finish.
Tips for the Perfect Brew
Experiment with Grind Size: Different beans may benefit from slight adjustments in grind size to optimize extraction.
Water Temperature Matters: The ideal water temperature for brewing is between 195°F and 205°F. This range allows for the best flavor extraction.
Don’t Rush: Allowing sufficient bloom time and a measured pouring pace will contribute to enhanced flavor.
Dial in Your Ratios: Feel free to modify the coffee-to-water ratio to suit your taste preferences. For a bolder cup, try a 1:14 ratio.
Final Thoughts
Brewing coffee with a Chemex pour-over is a rewarding experience that lets you appreciate quality beans. By choosing beans from Kenya, Papua New Guinea, and Colombia, you can explore a world of distinct flavors, from bright and fruity to smooth and balanced.
Celebrate the process that the Chemex brings to coffee brewing. As you practice, you will discover your preferences and soon make the perfect cup a delightful part of your daily routine. Happy brewing!
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