Hi Coffee Lovers!
Let's talk about the very popular Cold Brew. If you think that cold brewed coffee is iced coffee, you are not alone. Many coffee lovers think the same thing, but Cold Brew is a brewing method, while iced coffee is a serving method. You can serve cold brewed coffee in the same way that you serve traditional iced coffee, but they are brewed using two entirely different methods. Let's take a deeper look at this wonderful coffee!
Traditional iced coffee is simply coffee brewed with hot water and then chilled prior to serving. Cold brew is brewed at an ambient or cooler temperature for a longer time. Because of the different brewing method, it has a different flavor profile. It tends to be smoother with less bitterness.
When choosing a grind size for your cold brew, grind your beans as coarse as possible. (Here at Jersey Perks, our Big City Cold Brew is coarse ground, ready for you to brew!) It is generally the same grind that you use for French Press. The ratio is usually 4 to 1 (4 cups of water to 1 cup of coarse grounds). Stir gently to make sure all grounds are wet and cover with plastic wrap. Let sit at room temperature for 12 to 18 hours. The name cold brew might sound like you are brewing it in the refrigerator, but this is not usually the case. Cold temps actually slow down the extraction process making the coffee weaker than if it was steeped at room temperature. You can taste it occasionally until it is exactly the strength you want. Once the taste and strength that you want is achieved, simply strain out the coffee grounds. You can drink the stronger brew (concentrate) or dilute it to the desired strength. It will keep in the refrigerator for about two weeks.
You can also make cold brew in a French Press. When ready, gently press the grinds down to filter out. If you are going to be making Cold Brew on a regular basis, using a French Press is definitely the way to go!
Now that the weather is warming up, it is the perfect time to try it out! Add your favorite creamer and sweetener, if desired, and you have a smooth, flavorful cup of coffee. Whether served hot or cold, it is the perfect cup!
Stay caffeinated!
JP