How To Make Coffee With The AeroPress :: Inverted AeroPress Video Tutorial

how to use the aeropress inverted method
Aeropress video tutorial :: How to Aeropress :: Aeropress Coffee

How to Use the AeroPress (Inverted Method)


When I started this blog, the first two videos were How To Brew Coffee With The French Press, and How To Brew Coffee With The AeroPress.  Admittedly, I was not on my game yet.  I have learned much since that time, and I have previously updated the French Press Tutorial, and now it’s time to set the record straight on how to PROPERLY use the AeroPress coffee brewer.  There are several techniques out there, but the one that I employ is easy for any Joe Schmoe to duplicate.  It produces a rich, flavorful cup of coffee, and does not involve any crazy tactics that will discourage you from using it on a daily basis.


When I first tried the AeroPress, I wanted to see what all of the hype was about.  People were, and still are, going crazy over this brewer.  I mean, how good can a coffee maker that is manufactured by Aerobie be?  These guys got famous by inventing a super duper frisbee for crying out loud.  Well, I was kind of disappointed when it was all said and done.  I strongly suggest chucking the included instructions into [Read more…]

Nate’s #Coffee Gift Buying Guide!

coffee gift buying guide

As the holiday season draws ever closer, most of us are scrambling to find unique, useful gifts. If you have some coffee lovers on your list, then you’ve come to the right place! I will give you several coffee related gift options, several of which, most coffee drinkers do not already own. Brewing better coffee doesn’t have to be expensive, and neither do the majority of the corresponding gifts. I’ve included exceptional coffee products, in every price range in this coffee gift buying guide, suitable for any occasion.
 

Coffee Brewers

It is a common misconception that one must purchase an extravagant, expensive coffee maker to enjoy exceptional coffee. The best coffee brewers are frequently the simplest designs. Sure, you can make an awesome cup of coffee from a $10,000 machine, but you can make a cup that is almost as good from a $40 french press! Here are a few of the coffee brewers that are simple to use, offer repeatable, high quality results, and are just about dummy proof.
 

Bodum Columbia French Press

buy bodum columbia stainless steel french pressThe Bodum Columbia stainless steel french press, offers durability and excellent performance. After my family busted 3 glass press pots, I chose the Bodum (1308-16) Columbia press. Along with the ability to take a beating, the plunger assembly is much easier to clean than those found in the glass pots. The bottom of the plunger is a single piece, which contrasts to the 3 pieces of the glass Chambord. The 8 cup model is $70. Although the glass models are less expensive, I recommend the Columbia…especially if you have children!
 
 

Bodum Chambord French Press

buy bodum chambord french press coffee makerThe Bodum Chambord is the gold standard of french presses! This redesigned model features more chrome, which appears to aide with durability, as well as provide an attractive appearance. Brewing coffee with a french press is very easy to do, and provides a much more tastier cup, as opposed to automatic drip coffee makers. Cleanup is a bit more involved than with the Columbia model, but only takes a minute. Drip and other enclosed brewers collect mineral build up, which impacts the flavor of every cup. All of the parts of the french press are easily accessible and you can see the clean!
 
 

Bodum PEBO Vacuum / Syphon Coffee Brewer

buy bodum PEBO Santos vacuum syphon coffee brewerThe Bodum PEBO (formerly SANTOS) is one of my absolute favorite coffee brewers! It is an exceptional combination of practical coffee brewing and coffee theater.  Its effective vacuum brewing method extracts all precious oils of your favorite coffee, while leaving the sediment behind. The syphon brewing process is practically dummy-proof with this product. You can brew between 4-8 cups in this 34 oz. coffee brewer. $80.00
 
 

AeroPress Coffee Brewer

buy aeropress coffee maker brewer onlineThe AeroPress may appear to be a piece of drug paraphernalia, but it is actually and easy to use, coffee brewer. Amazingly enough, the makers of the Aerobie Flying disc stumbled upon an exceptional way to brew coffee. Even the snobbiest of coffee snobs enjoy the affordable AeroPress brewer. I love this brewer, when paired with the metal DISK filter from Able brewing. It allows more flavor to enter the cup, instead of getting trapped in the paper filter. The AeroPress is about $26.00
 
 

Chemex Coffee Brewer

buy chemex coffee brewer coffee maker onlineThe Chemex is a classic coffee brewer, which looks like a glass pitcher with a funnel at the top. The filter is placed into the funnel portion, insert the coffee, then pour hot water onto the coffee. This method will highlight different aspects of the coffee, as compared to other brewers. It works best when paired with the Able Brewing KONE filter, but works well with the standard Chemex filters…provided they are thoroughly rinsed with hot water. This brewer is a must for any coffee nerd. The 8-cup size is about $40.

 

Coffee Grinders

A proper coffee grinder is the single most important addition to any coffee drinker’s collection. No other purchase can make such a dramatic impact in the cup, as a grinder does. The typical coffee grinder that most people own, are those with the little blades in the bottom. It looks like a mini blender. These are NOT acceptable. The reason is due to the fact that each method of brewing coffee, requires a very specific, uniform size of coffee grind. The blade types cannot produce uniform sized coffee particles. They also create a lot of dust, and this makes your coffee bitter. What you need is a burr type coffee grinder. This is the only way to achieve the necessary uniformity and consistency in your coffee grind. It is not uncommon to invest more into a quality coffee grinder, than into a coffee brewer. In fact, it is typical. Here are some economical options of burr type coffee grinders.

Breville BCG450XL Conical Burr Grinder

buy breville bg450xl conical burr coffe grinder onlineThe Breville BCG450XL is built a bit more sturdier than the Bistro, with more metal parts. The receptacle is made of plastic, but static is minimal. The little receptacle cover is somewhat susceptible to breaking at the hinges, so be aware of that. The unit will continue function just fine, but you’ll have to replace the lid with each use. I have owned or gifted 6 of these units, and have yet to get a negative remark. It is easy to maintain, just follow my tutorial. 🙂 Again, not recommended for espresso grinding, but this unit is great for daily brewing from Moka pot to Press Pot. Enjoy! $129.99
 
 

Hario Skerton Hand Coffee Grinder

buy hario skerton hand coffee grinder onlineBrewing espresso at home can require a significant investment into a grinder and an espresso machine. To make it easier, the Hario Skerton hand grinder may be a good fit for you. This unit grinds perfectly for espresso brewing, but will not set you back $500. This unit only costs about $40, but gets tedious if you are grinding for more than two shots at a time. The hand grinder is also an excellent option fro traveling, and brewing in your hotel or on the camp site wit your AeroPress!
 
 

Miscellaneous Coffee Gifts

If the person on your gift list is sufficiently equipped with a selection of brewers and an excellent grinder, hope is not lost in finding a great gift. These items are specifically chosen for coffee lovers at all levels, even super coffee geeks will be surprised at your informed purchase of one of these items!
 

Bonavita Variable Temperature Kettle

buy bonavita variable temp kettle gooseneck onlineThe Bonavita Variable Temperature kettle is the hottest item in coffee brewing, this year. Specifically designed for brewing with a Chemex, French press, or pourover methods, the Bonavita’s gooseneck spout allows for precise pouring and exceptional brewing. This kettle also features temperature control, to allow the user to achieve optimal brewing temperatures without having to use an external thermometer. (No more steam burns!) $89.99
 
 
 

Bodum Stainless Steel Travel French Press

buy bodum stainless steel travel french press onlineGreat coffee on the go is a tough do! With the travel french press, you will enjoy great coffee no matter where you are. Just bring along some extra coffee, and acquire some hot water. You will no longer have to suffer the woes of drinking the swill at the local diner. Order your breakfast with a side of hot water. This model is stainless steel as well as vacuum insulated, to keep your beverage hot. $18
 
 
 

Coffee Storage Container : CoffeeVac

buy tightvac coffee storage containers onlineFresh roasted coffee is packaged in sealed bags, with a one-way valve. This isn’t a vacuum seal valve, it is to allow the CO2 to escape the fresh roasted beans, while keeping the freshness killing Oxygen out! The same method is used with the CoffeeVac! It’s easy to open and close, and very economical. About $10, available in various sizes.
 
 
 
 

Planetary Design Double Shot Mug

buy planetary design double shot travel french press onlineAnother travel french press, but this one is different. It also comes with a second lid, which is a traditional lid. It also features a secret compartment, in the bottom, where you can store an extra dose of coffee grounds. The mug is sturdy, and the customer service of the company is excellent. I had one of the older designs, and the handle fell off. I had owned the mug for 6 months, and they replaced it with the new version, no questions asked.
 
 
 
Find other products that I recommend in the CoffeeNate Shop!

The Coffee Olympics : #Coffee #Sochi2014

 
coffee olympics



The Coffee Olympics

Every time the Olympics are held in a distant country, I find myself staying up all hours of the night to watch “just one more event”. I’m sure I’m not the only one, but when I do this I have to consume twice as much coffee the following day. I guess it’s a win/win. 😉

The Coffee Nate Gold Medalists

In the Olympic spirit, I have awarded medals to the best coffee grinder, brewer, and top piece of home coffee brewing equipment.

Best Coffee Grinder


Capturing gold for “Best Coffee Grinder”, is Baratza. Rather than bestow this medal to a single grinder, I’m giving it to the company. This is because different types of coffee brewing will require a different grinder, and Baratza provides the best of both. From the entry level Encore to the espresso specialist Vario-W, there is something for every serious coffee nerd. Why Baratza? This company’s sole focus is producing quality coffee grinders. They don’t make 100 appliances and happen to also make coffee grinders, they specialize in producing top of the line coffee grinding machines. I’ve said many times, the single most important piece of coffee brewing equipment is the grinder. No other product has the potential to positively impact your coffee, more than the investment in a high caliber coffee grinder. You can have the world’s finest coffee and the most cutting edge coffee brewer, but if you don’t have a decent grinder, you’ll drink a poor cup of coffee.

Gold: Baratza Vario W

baratza vario w coffee grinderThe gold standard for home espresso enthusiasts! The Vario-W is also able to grind for other brewing methods, but it isn’t recommended as you’ll constantly be losing your espresso sweet spot.

 

 

 

Silver: Baratza Virtuoso

baratza virtuoso coffee grinderPerfect for versatility. Capable of producing a suitable grind for espresso, as well as press pot and other brewing methods.

 

 

 

Bronze: Baratza Encore

baratza encore coffee grinderGreat for brewing methods, other than espresso. Excellent entry level burr grinder for maximum results with least investment.

 

 

 

 

Best Coffee Brewer

Here’s where it gets a bit subjective. I prefer different types of brewers for different coffees. On top of that, I also prefer different brewing methods depending on the time of day, the amount of time I have available, as well as what kind of mood I’m in. Here are the winners…

Gold: Bodum Columbia French Press

bodum columbia french pressThis press claimed gold based on the ease of use, the quality of its components, as well as the convenience and repeatability. French Press coffee is enjoyed by many a coffee snob, and it is surprisingly affordable. While the traditional glass versions are more than adequate (if you purchase a quality one), the Columbia is stainless steel, which makes it kid-proof. Also, the plunger of the Columbia is a single piece. Most plungers have a screen filter that fits between two metal plates at the bottom of the plunger. These are horrible to clean, because the coffee grounds get stuck between the screen and the plates. In order to properly clean, you have to take it apart every time. Nobody does this, and you end up with rotten coffee grounds in your fresh brew. Nasty! The Columbia features a single piece filter that is a breeze to clean. It also has a small silicone ring around the outside, providing an excellent seal to keep the coffee grounds out of your drink.

Silver: The AeroPress

AeroPress Coffee MakerThe AeroPress could very well be a gold medal contender, but it does require a bit more involvement, as well as more ways to screw up the beverage. On the other hand, it does create a unique brewing experience, as well as an exceptional cup of coffee. How the makers of a flying disc stumbled upon this device is beyond me, but this product is really quite awesome.

The AeroPress is perfect for people who want to brew a single cup, but don’t want to go the expensive route of the Kcup brewers, which also produce some of the poorest quality coffee known to man. Also, if you like an intensely strong brew, the AeroPress is a must. The final product is a concentrated cup of coffee, which you can add hot water or milk to suit your strength preference. If you don’t mind going through a few steps, the AeroPress is your best bet. At first, you may find it to be a bit labor intensive but, like anything else, practice makes perfect. You will quickly find yourself brewing like a barista, once you go through the steps a few times. It isn’t as intimidating as it appears, and you can follow my step by step video to get you started.

Bronze: The Chemex

Chemex coffee makerWhile I struggled with choosing a third brewer, I went with the Chemex. This brewing method allows you to brew a single cup or as many as 13 cups! I have an 13 cup Chemex, which I use when we are entertaining. I can brew up a large number of cups, rather than kicking out 1 cup at a time, for the entire evening. You can also brew a single cup, without sacrificing the quality of the brew. The construction of the Chemex is quite simple. It is a glass container, with a funnel at the top. Insert the filter into the funnel, add the ground coffee, then slowly add the water. Once you get the grind right, you will find this method very simple, and the finished product is a tasty cup of coffee.

Overall Coffee Brewing Equipment

Gold: Bonavita Variable Temperature Gooseneck Kettle

bonavita variable temp kettleThis was an easy choice, for several reasons. Reason number one, control. The gooseneck design allows for precise, slow pouring, while the function of the kettle also allows you to set the desired temperature of the water. The optimal water temperature for brewing coffee is between 195-205 degrees Fahrenheit. (NOT BOILING) At this temperature range, the perfect amount of the coffee bean is dissolved by the water. If your water isn’t hot enough, it won’t dissolve enough, too hot and your coffee will taste bitter, because too much was allowed to dissolve. This kettle provides two important functions in a single device, saving you time…which is reason number 2.

Silver: Able Filters

able aeropress filterI simply love the metal filters produced by Able Brewing Company. The first is the standard screen, reusable filter for the AeroPress. This metal AeroPress filter allows more of the flavorful oils to enter your cup. Paper filters work perfectly fine, but they make the brew too smooth for my personal taste. If you enjoy a flavor packed cup, then you MUST get the reusable Able filter for the AeroPress.

 

 

able kone filterI always use the Able KONE filter for brewing with my Chemex. For the same reason as with the reusable AeroPress filter, the KONE allows more flavor to enter the cup, while keeping out the sediment found in French Press brewing. Another benefit of using the KONE, you are able to use a finer grind for the Chemex, without clogging the filter. The traditional Chemex paper filters are excellent, but you must use a coarser grind in order to keep the coffee flowing. Again, the paper filter provides a smoother tasting cup, but removes much of the flavor that the KONE allows into the cup. If you’re like me, you’ll prefer the KONE filter.

Bronze: Hario Digital Scale & Timer

hario coffee scaleAn essential element of brewing exceptional coffee is repeatability. If you measure your coffee grounds by the ‘scoop’, you’re not getting it. Measuring coffee by mass offers you the consistency that is crucial to producing a repeatable process with ease. Coffee beans can vary in density and size, but if you always measure your coffee with a scale, you will always use the proper amount. Otherwise, you’re simply guessing. The Hario scale is superior to cheaper models, because it offers a large surface area, easy to read display, and it also has a built in timer. The larger surface area allows for more stability for your brewer. After adding your coffee, you can put your brewer on the scale, tare it, then measure your water by mass as well. If you don’t already do this, it may sound like more work, but it actually creates less work in addition to giving you maximum control and a simple, repeatable brewing process.
 

Here are more products that I love…

 
Find other products that I recommend in the CoffeeNate Shop!

The Reuseable K Cup Filter :: How To Reuse K Cups

The Reuseable K Cup Filter :: How To Reuse K Cups

You may have read my post about the Pros and Cons of the K Cup, in which I explain that the ‘Cons’ of the Keurig brewer were; Control, Cost, Waste, and Quality of coffee.  We can eliminate all of these negatives with one product, the Ekobrew Reusable Kcup Filter.  Other reusable filters don’t have as big of a capacity as the Ekobrew.  Also, other filters only have one or two water injection points, the Ekobrew has a specially designed cone that fully saturates and extracts more evenly.

  • Quality of Coffee – Now you can use your own fresh roasted coffee!
  • Waste – You won’t be throwing away those used plastic K cups!  Reuse your K cup filter over and over again.
  • Cost – Save TONS of money by purchasing your coffee separately from your Kcups.  Buy coffee online, or from your favorite local roaster.
  • Control – Now you can control how strong your brew is.  The Ekobrew reusable filter is deeper than other reusable kcups, so you can make a strong cuppa joe!  We still don’t get to control the water temperature, or brew time, but you’re never going to get everything with the Keurig system.

This product isn’t going to make me suddenly love the Keurig coffee brewer, but it does offer an alternative for those who do.  I will still brew my coffee as I have always done, but now I know what I’m buying all of the Keurig lovers I know! 😀

SAVE %20 THIS WEEK ONLY!

From February 13th – 19th, visitors from CoffeeNate.com will enjoy an exclusive savings of %20 off!  You must purchase through the links at CoffeeNate.com, and also use the coupon code REUSEABLE20 in order to get the discounted price.  Even without the discount, this product will save you a bunch of money.  Not to mention, your coffee will taste much better!

buy reuseable k cup filter

More info from the manufacturer…

Product Details

Design & Functionality
The Ekobrew unit works on the same principles as the best espresso coffee machines. Optimum extraction of the best single serve drip coffee is a product of the perfect grind combined with the perfect amount of coffee to achieve the ideal coffee extraction.
1. Open Ekobrew lid
2. Fill with your favorite ground coffee and close the lid
3. Insert into Keurig holster and brew
With its low tamp dispersion cone the Ekobrew filter evenly soaks the coffee grounds for optimal extraction.


Materials
Stainless Steel
Polypropylene – BPA-free, polypropylene is commonly used for injection molding. It’s resistance to high heat generally makes it microwave and dishwasher safe, as well as a good option for food and beverage storage.

Sustainability
Projections for 2011 suggested that more than 5 billion K-Cups will be sold, used and then disposed of by consumers. These non-biodegradable K-Cups will, for the most part, end up in our landfills and never decompose.

About ekobrew
Eko Brands, LLC, a Seattle based company, began their mission to provide an ecologically responsible and less expensive solution when they introduced the Ekobrew in early 2011.

Single serve coffee is the fastest growing segment in the North American coffee market today. The Keurig single cup brewing system utilizes small disposable plastic and foil cups called “K-Cups” that hold ground coffee for brewing each cup.

Now there is an alternative that is greener, less expensive and provides far more choices – the Ekobrew Reusable Filter for Keurig single cup coffee maker.

Ekobrew brings you a new of single serve coffee – convenience with a conscience

Care Instructions
Dishwasher safe

Ekobrew is not compatible with the B30, B130, B150 and B155


Customer Review of Ekobrew Reusable K Cup Filter

Excellent item – and thank God it exists

Rating by Gordon K – 12/2011

This work quite well. Make sure you use coffee of an appropriate grind (electric drip grind works well) – if too fine, it will clog up and overflow, very messily. The common blade-type grinder a lot of people use at home does NOT do a good job for this purpose, as it’s very hard to get a consistent grind of the right size with those – you’re better off buying your coffee ground, unless you have a burr grinder at home.  Frankly, I wish there were no need for this product – the fact that those Keurig-type coffee makers exist at all is an outrage against the earth – along with all the other senseless waste that seems to keep getting worse and worse. But given that we need to cope with that situation until people wake up, thank God it’s at least *possible* to get a re-usable container for them.

buy reuseable k cup filter

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MugRevolution.com Custom Coffee Mug Review : @MugMkr

 
 

Have a coffee question…ASK COFFEENATE!

There are several technical aspects to brewing the perfect pot of coffee; the beans, brewer, the right grinder, water quality, etc all play role in the final taste of your brew. Sure, these are all important, but there is something else that I find important too… [Read more…]