Researchers have found evidence that drinking coffee on a regular basis may help reduce the risk of heart disease and cirrhosis of the liver in post-menopausal women. The most likely reason, according to a May 2006 study published in "The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition," is the high level of antioxidants found in coffee. Using a French press coffee maker allows you to create your own personal cup of coffee. Unlike a drip coffee maker, coffee grounds in a French press are stirred directly into the water and left to brew for a few moments before filtering the coffee grounds.
Step 1
Use freshly roasted coffee beans; the fresher the beans, the better your coffee will taste. French press coffee makers need coarsley ground beans. Finely ground coffee is too small and will easily slip through the French press's mesh filter.
Step 2
Pour 1 tbsp. of the coarse coffee per 1 cup of water in the French press cylinder. Alter the measurements to your personal taste for a stronger or weaker cup of coffee.
Step 3
Boil water in a kettle, pot or your microwave for the coffee.
Step 4
Measure out 1 cup of water and pour the boiling water over the coffee grounds in the cylinder. Many French presses have markings on the side of the glass cylinder, similar to a measuring cup, to help you determine the appropriate water level.
Step 5
Stir the coffee grounds and water.
Step 6
Place the lid on the French press and allow the coffee to brew for three or four minutes; smaller amounts of coffee will likely be ready in about three minutes, whereas larger pots can take up to four minutes to adequately brew.
Step 7
Press the plunger down to push the coffee grounds to the bottom of the pot. Do not force the plunger, but rather press down in a slow, controlled manner.
Step 8
Remove the lid to the French press and pour the coffee into a mug.
Things You'll Need
- French press
- Coarsley ground coffee
- Spoon
References
- "The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition"; Consumption of Coffee is Associated With Reduced Risk of Death Attributed to Inflammatory and Cardiovascular Diseases in the Iowa Women's Health Study; Lene Frost Andersen, et al; May 2006
- "New York Times"; Coffee as a Health Drink? Studies Find Some Benefits; Nicholas Bakalar; August 2006
- Bodum USA; Product Details
Member Comments