Brew Guide: AeroPress

Confession time. I only recently started using my AeroPress. I've had one for ages. But it always just sat at the back of my pile of coffee stuff. People would always talk about how much they adored their AeroPress. How they loved taking it camping with them. How easy it was to use. And I'd say, ahhh I need to use mine one day. And then, for some reason, that day would never come.

I think the reason is because I'm actually quite partial to my espresso machine. I love espresso-based drinks and they are normally my go-to beverage. But one morning not too long ago, my espresso machine wasn't working. Devastated. I needed to take it in for service but in the meantime, how was I going to get my caffeine fix?

My mind immediately went to the AeroPress. It was finally time to use it. All I can say is that after using it, I was more upset that I had waited so long to try it than I was about my espresso machine not working.

It's honestly great! I love when things are versatile and the AeroPress is the epitome of versatility. Below are a few ways in which I've been experimenting with it lately.

My favourite coffee to use with it? Hands down, it is Mood's Signature Blend - Aloof every single time. It produces an incredibly smooth cup with the molasses and cocoa notes really shining through. A touch of acidity creates a well-rounded cup.

Classic Method:

• 16g of coffee, ground medium-fine and 240mL of hot water (approximately 90-95 degrees Celsius)
• Add the paper filter to the plastic cap and give it a rinse to wet the paper and ensure it lays flat against the cap. Then  screw it into place.
• Assemble AeroPress right side up over coffee mug of choice.
• Grind coffee and add it to the brew chamber.
• Pour hot water slowly and carefully into the brew chamber.
• Let the coffee bloom for 30 seconds, then give it a stir and wait another 90 seconds to let the coffee brew.
• Attach the plunger and slowly plunge down over the mug.

Inverted Method:

• The inverted method is quite similar to the classic method however you assemble the AeroPress upside down with the top of the plunger on the countertop.
• Add medium-fine grind coffee and the hot water (same ratios) to the brew chamber.
• Let the coffee bloom for 30 seconds, then give it a stir and wait another 90 seconds to let the coffee brew.
• While waiting, add the paper filter to the plastic cap and give it a rinse to wet the paper and ensure it lays flat against the cap. Then screw it into place.
• After the 90 seconds, flip the AeroPress over carefully and plunge down slowly over the mug.

The main difference here is that the inverted method allows all the water to be in contact with the coffee for the full brew time whereas the classic method allows the water to slowly drip through while brewing (similar to a pour over).

Espresso Method:

• 20g of coffee ground fine to 60mL of hot water (approximately 90-95 degrees Celsius)
• Use the inverted method above to brew your AeroPress espresso.
• Flip over and plunge slowly.

Cold Brew (flash brew style):

• 20g of coffee ground medium-fine to 240mL of hot water (approximately 90-95 degrees Celsius)
• Fill your favourite glass with ice.
• Use the inverted method above to brew your AeroPress cold brew.
• Flip over and plunge slowly over the glass filled with ice.

You can find Mood's Signature Blend - Aloof and the AeroPress Original for purchase here. If you try these recipes let me know how you like them in the comments below!