Using an AeroPress
What is an AeroPress ? What should I expect when using an AeroPress? How do I go about using an AeroPress? Is it easy to use an AeroPress? What do I need when using an AeroPress?
What is an AeroPress ?
Before we talk about using an AeroPress, it might be worth finding out more about it. So, what is it, where did it originate and when was it first produced?
The AeroPress was first invented by an American inventor and lecturer called Alan Adler in 2004. He created the prototype in his garage, before it was officially released in 2005. Adler’s main aim was to reduce the acidity he was experiencing in his coffee made using other brewing methods.
Using an AeroPress gives much more control over brew time, the temperature of the water and grind size than other methods, and is not controlled by any external power sources, but just by the user.
As is similar in the espresso coffee machine, the Aeropress uses air pressure to extract the flavour from the coffee. It is made up of two cylinder shaped sections – a chamber and a plunger with a silicone seal to make it airtight (it has similarities to a syringe). A small round filter, either made of paper or metal, is held by a filter cap screwed onto the end.
When using an Aeropress you will need finely ground beans and it has a 30-60 second brewing time, which is faster than most methods, if not all.
What you will need:
- An Aeropress (including a paper or metal filter)
- A kettle (we love the goose neck, but any will do)
- A grinder (electric or hand is fine) – unless you buy our ready ground coffee
- A digital scale
- Timer (Or Timer and scale in one)
Preparation:
Grind: 17-20g of medium/coarse grind
Temperature: 90-96℃
Method:
Rinse your AeroPress metal or paper filter and fit it into the filter basket. Fill your AeroPress with coffee, add 40ml of water so it blooms, and stir. Leave for 20 seconds or so and then add the rest of the water (approx. a further 210ml). Press down on the AeroPress very slowly over your cup, taking 60 seconds or so, making sure you leave around 40ml in the chamber. Add milk if needed, or drink black.
What we recommend:
If you like fruitier flavours, go for our Down to Earth Blend. For a slightly darker flavour try Miss Molly. Or for more character go for On the House or In the Bag. All our blends work well when using an AeroPress.
Why do we love the AeroPress at Mini & Mighty?
Using an AeroPress is a great way to make coffee, either at home or on the go. It makes a great brew in a short amount of time for those coffee drinkers on a busier schedule, and is reasonably mess free and faff free.
Did you know?
The AeroPress has inspired what is now known as the AeroPress Championships which have been organised by fans of the Aeropress. The Championship is where people compete to brew the best cup of coffee using their favourite AeroPress recipe, for a panel of judges. Now, each year the national Championships are held in over 60 countries!
Watch our #greatcoffeeathome video here, all about making your coffee using an AeroPress.
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