Jerry Baldwin, coffee-shop owner and coffee expert, unlocks the mysteries of coffee and explains how to brew the perfect cup.
What are the origins of coffee?
Coffee was discovered in Ethiopia and first roasted and brewed as a beverage more than 1,000 years ago.
What are the various roasts of coffee?
Basically, coffee beans are light, medium and dark roasted. The body and flavor of a medium roast are fully developed, whereas dark-roasted coffee beans are carbonized and light roasted beans are somewhat acidic.
Should I buy whole bean coffee, or does it even matter?
Probably the worst thing you can do when buying coffee is to buy it preground. Because there is so much surface area exposed when the coffee is ground, it will become stale in just a few days.
A standard-blade coffee grinder can be purchased for less than $20 and is an adequate appliance for making great-tasting coffee.
I've been wanting to try a French press to make coffee. How does it work?
What an incredible cup of coffee the French press makes! It's very easy. Grind the desired amount of coffee (try rotating the grinder slightly from side to side to ensure consistency). Two tablespoons of coffee for each six ounces is a good rule to follow. A coarse grind will work best in a French press.
Next, remove the plunger and add coffee to the press. Preheat the press with hot water if desired. Pour in hot water that has almost reached boiling. Swirl the press carefully to ensure that all the grounds are covered. Replace the top on the press, and allow the coffee to steep for three to four minutes.
Now comes the fun part. Slowly press the plunger down, pushing the coffee grounds to the bottom of the pot.
* Note: You might encounter a small amount of sediment in the cup. Some prefer the sediment, some don't. It's up to you to decide.
Guests Jerry Baldwin
Owner, Peet's Coffee & Tea
Toll-free: 800-999-2132
Website:
www.peets.com
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