If you are a coffee lover and you want to try a new brewing method, the Chemex method is for you. With its elegant aesthetics and innovative design, the Chemex is not only a true work of art, but also one of the most popular methods among true coffee connoisseurs. With this system, coffee is made in a slower and more delicate way, but the end result is a pure, clear beverage with a rich flavour. If you want to learn how to make it at home, keep reading! I will guide you step by step through this brewing technique.
What is the Chemex method?
The Chemex method is a coffee brewing system invented in 1941 by German chemist Peter Schlumbohm. Its invention stands out for the use of a thick filter that allows you to obtain a cleaner coffee, free of impurities and with a smooth but intense flavour. The Chemex is made of borosilicate glass, a heat-resistant material, and is easily recognisable by its hourglass shape, with a narrow neck and a wooden handle that makes it easy to use.
This particular coffee maker is renowned for its ability to enhance the organoleptic characteristics of coffee, thanks to the quality of its filters and the precision of its preparation. It is not a quick method, but the result is a cup of coffee with a clean and balanced taste, ideal for those who appreciate the finest coffee.
How does the Chemex method work?
The Chemex method is based on slow percolation, where coffee is filtered through a thick filter. The particular shape of the Chemex and the type of filter used allow the coffee oils and sediment to be separated, resulting in a lighter and clearer drink than other methods, such as the moka pot or French press.
Percolation occurs through a combination of temperature, infusion time and ideal mixing of the beans. This process allows you to extract the best from each bean, enhancing the most delicate and aromatic notes of the coffee.
The ingredients to make coffee with the Chemex method
To prepare coffee with the Chemex, in addition to the coffee maker, you will need some basic ingredients and tools:
Ingredients:
- Ground coffee (ideally, for the Chemex method, use a medium or coarse grind, similar to sand)
- Fresh water (preferably filtered)
- Sugar or sweetener (to taste, but Chemex coffee is already very good on its own)
Tools:
- Chemex (obviously!)
- Chemex filters (special filters, thicker than coffee filters, for a cleaner result)
- Kettle with a thin spout (for precise and controlled pouring of water)
- Grinder (if you use coffee beans)
- Scales (optional, but useful for measuring water and coffee accurately)
Preparing coffee with the Chemex method
Preparing coffee with the Chemex method is a process that requires time and attention, but the results are well worth the effort. Here is a step-by-step guide to preparing your perfect coffee:
- Prepare the filter: Place a Chemex filter on top of the coffee maker. Make sure that the folded side of the filter is facing the spout to ensure proper filtration. Rinse the filter with hot water to remove any paper residue and to warm up the Chemex.
- Grind the coffee: Grind the coffee beans to a medium grind, similar to that used for a French press. Use about 30 grams of coffee for 500 ml of water, but you can adjust the amount to suit your taste.
- Prepare the water: Boil the water, then let it rest for a couple of minutes. The ideal temperature for the water is between 90 and 96 degrees Celsius, hot enough to extract the coffee, but not too hot to avoid burning it.
- Pour the coffee: Place the Chemex on a scale and add the ground coffee to the filter. Start by pouring a little hot water over the coffee grounds to activate the beans, allowing them to release excess carbon dioxide. Pour in a small circular motion to evenly moisten the coffee. Let it rest for about 30 seconds.
- Pour slowly: After the pre-infusion period, begin to slowly pour the water in a circular motion, starting from the centre and working your way outwards. Avoid pouring directly onto the filter, focusing instead on the coffee. Pay attention to the speed of the pour: too fast and you will get weak coffee, too slow and you risk over-extracting.
- Complete the infusion: Continue pouring water until you reach the desired amount. Allow the water to slowly filter through the coffee. The extraction process should take about 3-4 minutes.
- Remove the filter and serve: Once the water has completely passed through the coffee, remove the filter and serve the coffee directly into your favourite cup. Enjoy its purity, clarity and rich flavour.
The benefits of the Chemex method
The Chemex method is prized not only for its refined aesthetics, but also for the coffee it produces. Thanks to its thick filters and slow percolation, Chemex coffee offers numerous benefits:
- Cleaner, clearer coffee: Thanks to special filters, the coffee produced with the Chemex is very clear and free of sediment, maintaining a smooth and refined flavour.
- Enhances delicate notes: The slow extraction process enhances the delicate, aromatic notes of the beans, resulting in a lighter and more balanced cup of coffee than other methods.
- Complete control over preparation: With the Chemex, you have greater control over the coffee dose, water quantity and temperature, allowing you to achieve the perfect cup every time.
Conclusion
The Chemex method is much more than just a way of making coffee; it is a real ritual that enhances every single detail of what is, for many, a passion. Thanks to its ability to produce a clean, delicate and perfectly balanced coffee, the Chemex offers a unique experience, ideal for those looking for a drink that goes beyond a simple espresso. Every step of the process is a discovery, every sip a pleasure that reflects the beauty and elegance of this method.
If you haven’t tried it yet, now is the time! With Chemex, you will discover a coffee that knows how to be appreciated, capable of revealing nuances that other methods cannot offer. If you prefer another type of coffee, we invite you to discover which of our coffee machines is right for you, so you can always enjoy excellent crema and an intense aroma.
