How to make French press coffee

What you need

• A French press, such as the insulated Fellow Clara, which keeps the heat steady while it brews.
• 30 g of coarsely ground coffee and 450 ml of water.

Step by step

1. Warm the press with a little boiling water, then pour it out.
2. Add the coffee and pour in all the water at once so every ground is wet.
3. Stir gently, put the lid on without pressing, and wait 4 minutes.
4. Break the crust on top with a spoon and scoop off the foam and floating grounds.
5. Press slowly, without force.
6. Pour it all straight away. Coffee left in the press keeps extracting and turns bitter.

Common mistakes

• Grinding too fine: a muddy, bitter cup and a plunger that's hard to press.
• Leaving coffee in the press: it keeps extracting even after pressing.
• Water straight off the boil: wait about 30 seconds after boiling.

Which coffee for the French press

The French press loves body: try Sumatra, Indonesia, Guatemala, Honduras or Santo Domingo.

Frequently asked questions

How much coffee for a French press?

A good starting ratio is 1:15: about 30 g of coffee to 450 ml of water, or about 65 g per litre. Want it stronger? Add more coffee, not more time.

Why is there sludge in my cup?

A French press filters through a metal mesh, so fine particles get through. A coarse grind (9), skimming the foam after 4 minutes and waiting a few more minutes before pressing cut the sediment a lot. Leave the last sip in the cup.

Can I make cold brew in a French press?

Yes. Mix very coarsely ground coffee with cold water at 1:8, leave it in the fridge for 12–18 hours and press. You get a concentrate to pour over ice with water or milk.

Can I froth milk in a French press?

Yes. Fill it a third with hot milk (60–65°C) and pump the plunger quickly for 20–30 seconds. The milk frothing guide has the details.