American coffee: differences and how to prepare filter coffee
American-style coffee, more commonly known as filter coffee, is extremely popular, and not just in the USA. For some time it has also been in demand by coffee-lovers in Northern Europe. When we think of filter coffee, we have to mention its pleasing intense flavour. If you´re wondering what are the secrets to preparing it, just keep reading this article.
The difference between americano and American-style or filter coffee
Before we come to practical advice for preparing filter coffee, let´s just take a look at the difference between this and americano coffee. The two terms are very often used as synonyms, which is a mistake. Americano coffee is actually prepared exactly the same way as espresso. The only difference between an americano and the espresso, symbol of Italian coffee, is that the former is slightly diluted with boiling water.
But in the case of American-style or filter coffee, the preparation is completely different, although essentially equivalent in terms of intensity. To make it, however, you need a special machine, which we´ll explain further in the next paragraphs.
How to make filter coffee
Now we´ll get into the meat of the subject, with a step-by-step look at how to prepare filter coffee. Ready to discover the different ways of making this delicious beverage?
Filter coffee machine
As we mentioned, when it comes to preparing filter coffee, there are several approaches to consider. One of these - and the most popular of all - is the use of a filter coffee machine. First we should say that this is an affordable appliance even if you don´t have a bar. The average price is around €100. That said, let´s see the details of the procedure:
1. Open the section in the upper part of the machine and insert a filter, which is usually supplied along with the machine (if you use a filter for 2 cups and considering that a standard cup has a capacity of 200 ml, you will need 24 g of coffee and 400 ml of water);
2. Put the coffee into the filter. Here we´ll add an aside, reminding you how important it is to choose the correct filter coffee blend, which should be medium-roasted;
3. Pour water into the dedicated container;
4. Turn the machine on;
5. Enjoy your coffee when it´s ready.
As mentioned above, a filter coffee machine is easily affordable even if you´re not running a bar or hotel. Looking at the most popular options for good filter coffee machines, remember these are available from a range of brands. One of the most attractive is undoubtedly the Smeg drip filter machine.
French Press
How can we make filter coffee without a machine? Using a French press, also known as a cafetière. The method is very simple. Start by
placing the jug on a flat, dry surface. Now take the handle and extract the plunger.
Next, take the ground coffee and place it In the jug. The ideal proportion is 10 grammes of coffee for every 200 ml of water (NB this shouldn´t be boiling).
Stir well, then cover with the filter for at least 2 minutes (maximum 4). After this, it´s time to start pressing the plunger, not too hard. Your coffee is ready, and afterwards, all you need to do is wash out the jug, using a mild detergent.
Read also: The benefits of coffee.
Filter coffee without an electric machine
If you´re wondering how to make filter coffee without a machine, remember you can always rely on a method that´s simple, to say the least. What does it consist of? Simply use an ordinary cup topped by a filter designed specifically for this type of coffee (you can buy a pack online for just over €10).
You fill it with your coffee blend, pour over boiling water and, as they say, that´s that. Now it´s just a matter of waiting for the coffee to start dripping through, and enjoying the brew.
Read also: Organic coffee: all you need to know about organic growing.
Corsini´s filter coffee blends
Corsini offers a number of options for filter coffee blends.These are special combinations of coffees roasted and ground specifically for the type of filters we´ve discussed above. The result is a delightful brew that has all the flavour of Italian coffee, yet is also considerably lighter.
How to serve American-style coffee
We´re almost at the end of our roundup of advice for preparing filter coffee. Now let´s lootkat the detail of serving it. The procedure is extremely simple. When the coffee is ready, all you need to do is pour it into your favourite mug - we all have one - and enjoy.
As we hinted, when it comes to filter coffee, the blend does not need to be particularly full-
placing the jug on a flat, dry surface. Now take the handle and extract the plunger.
Next, take the ground coffee and place it In the jug. The ideal proportion is 10 grammes of coffee for every 200 ml of water (NB this shouldn´t be boiling).
Stir well, then cover with the filter for at least 2 minutes (maximum 4). After this, it´s time to start pressing the plunger, not too hard. Your coffee is ready, and afterwards, all you need to do is wash out the jug, using a mild detergent.
Filter coffee without an electric machine
If you´re wondering how to make filter coffee without a machine, remember you can always rely on a method that´s simple, to say the least. What does it consist of? Simply use an ordinary cup topped by a filter designed specifically for this type of coffee (you can buy a pack online for just over €10).
You fill it with your coffee blend, pour over boiling water and, as they say, that´s that. Now it´s just a matter of waiting for the coffee to start dripping through, and enjoying the brew.
Read also: The benefits of coffee.
Corsini´s filter coffee blends
Corsini offers a number of options for filter coffee blends.These are special combinations of coffees roasted and ground specifically for the type of filters we´ve discussed above. The result is a delightful brew that has all the flavour of Italian coffee, yet is also considerably lighter.
• American Coffee 250 g
• Corsini American Coffee
How to serve American-style coffee
We´re almost at the end of our roundup of advice for preparing filter coffee. Now let´s lootkat the detail of serving it. The procedure is extremely simple. When the coffee is ready, all you need to do is pour it into your favourite mug - we all have one - and enjoy.
As we hinted, when it comes to filter coffee, the blend does not need to be particularly full-bodied. For this reason, most people tend to prefer alternatives like 100% Arabica, or 80% Arabica and 20% Robusta. Similarly, for perfect filter coffee, the roasting should be pale. This actually means that the acidity of the coffee prevails over any bitterness. For perfect results, it´s also desirable that the grind is fairly coarse. This makes it easier to achieve a slow and continuous dripping.
If you´re approaching filter coffee for the first time and want the best possible quality, Caffè Corsini is the right choice for you. A coffee roaster founded back in 1950, today a true pioneer in the sector - introducing the concept of DOC coffee in Italy - we offer not only machines and filters, but also two specific blends for filter coffee.
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