Cold brew coffee has taken the coffee world by storm in recent years, promising a smoother, less acidic beverage that's perfect for hot summer days. But what exactly is cold brew coffee, and how is it different from regular coffee?
We get asked this quite frequently at our coffeeshop in Big Lake, Minnesota. On our website, we've even had people as far as Maine chat with our roasters asking for recommendations. So here's a collection of notes and thoughts we share from our experience here at Ember Coffee Co. as local roasters.
What is Cold Brew Coffee?
Unlike iced coffee, which is brewed hot and then cooled, cold brew coffee is made by steeping coarsely ground coffee beans in cold or room temperature water for an extended period, usually 12-18 hours. This slow extraction process results in a coffee that is often described as smoother and less acidic than its hot-brewed counterpart.
Benefits of Cold Brew Coffee
Cold brew coffee offers several advantages over traditional hot-brewed coffee:
- Lower Acidity: The cold brewing process extracts fewer acidic compounds, making the coffee easier on the stomach and less bitter.
- Smoother Flavor: The extended brewing time allows for a more gradual extraction of flavors, resulting in a coffee that's rich and smooth.
- Versatility: Cold brew can be enjoyed straight, diluted with water or milk, served hot or cold, and used in various recipes like cocktails and desserts.
Why You Should Try Cold Brew Coffee
Cold brew coffee is worth exploring for any coffee enthusiast. Its unique flavor profile, lower acidity, and versatility make it a great addition to your coffee repertoire. Plus, it's perfect for making large batches that can be enjoyed throughout the week.
If you're new to cold brew, start with our basic recipe and experiment with different beans and ratios until you find your perfect brew. For those looking to elevate their cold brew game, consider trying [Placeholder for Product Name], which is specially selected for cold brewing.
As they say, "good things come to those who wait." If you can wait 12-18 hours for your coffee to brew, you're in for a treat with cold brew coffee.
Make Cold Brew Coffee at Home
Making cold brew coffee at home is simpler than you might think, and you don't need any special equipment—though we DO have some special kits about to be dropped soon! But anywho. here's a basic recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup coarsely ground coffee beans
- 4 cups cold or room temperature water
Instructions:
- Grind the Beans: Use a coarse grind, similar to what you would use for a French press.
- Combine Coffee and Water: In a large jar or French press, mix the coarsely ground coffee with water.
- Steep: Cover and let it steep at room temperature for 12-18 hours.
- Strain: Use a fine mesh sieve or a coffee filter to strain the coffee grounds from the liquid.
- Serve: Dilute the cold brew concentrate with water or milk to your taste. Serve over ice and enjoy!
Interesting Cold Brew Recipes
Cold brew coffee is incredibly versatile, and there are countless ways to enjoy it. Here are a few recipes to try:
- Cold Brew Concentrate: Use a stronger coffee-to-water ratio (1:4) and steep for 18 hours. This concentrate can be used in cocktails or diluted to your desired strength.
- Cold Brew Espresso Martini: Mix 25ml vodka, 35ml coffee liqueur, and 35ml cold brew concentrate. Shake with ice and serve in a chilled glass.
- Cold Brew Latte: Mix cold brew concentrate with whole milk and ice. Adjust to taste.
- Tropical Latte: Add sugar and light coconut milk to cold brew concentrate for a refreshing twist.
Best Coffees for Cold Brew
Almost any coffee can be used for cold brew, but certain types may yield better results. If you prefer fruity notes, try a Colombian coffee. For a smoother, chocolatey profile, go with a Mexico or Papua New Guinea coffee. For a balanced, complex brew, we recommend our signature El Jefe or Wild Ox blends.
