The Chemex

Chemex is a filter-coffee brewing device consisting of an hourglass-shaped glass flask and a paper filter. The brewing method that employs this coffee maker is referred to by the same name.

Brewing coffee with a Chemex device is a simple process.

Here’s what you will need:

• Chemex device
• Special filters
• Coffee beans
• Coffee grinder
• Kettle
• Precision coffee scale
• Timer
• Mug

Follow these step-by-step instructions:

1. Boil water in the kettle and let it cool for 1 to 2 minutes until it reaches a temperature of 195–205 °F (90–96 °C).
2. Place the filter in the Chemex. Make sure that the side with three layers faces the spout.
3. Moisten the filter with hot water to remove any paper taste and slightly warm the sides of the Chemex.
4. Drain any excess water from the flask.
5. Grind the coffee beans to a medium consistency.
6. Use a scale to measure 1 gramme of coffee per 15 grammes of water. For instance, use 20 grammes of coffee for a 300-ml cup.
7. Add the coffee grounds to the Chemex.
8. Begin the timer and pour a small amount of hot water (2 times the coffee’s weight) over the ground coffee, ensuring that it is evenly moistened.
9. Let it sit for roughly 30 seconds.
10. Slowly pour the remainder of the hot water over the coffee grounds in circular motions to ensure even extraction.
11. Wait until the coffee ceases dripping through the filter (about 3–4 minutes).
12. Remove and discard the filter.

If the coffee seems too weak, you can use more ground coffee beans or a finer grind. If the coffee is too strong, decrease the quantity of ground coffee beans and use coarser grindings.