10 timeless tips for the perfect cup of coffee

Few missions in human history have captivated men and women around the world like the search for the perfect cup of coffee. Yes, believe it or not, coffee connoisseurs have spent their entire lives searching for that most heavenly cup of coffee ever made. However, if you’re like most people, you’re just looking for an easy way to make a great-tasting cup of coffee to get you started in the morning. The following 10 timeless tips for the perfect cup of coffee should help you on your mini-mission.

1. You get what you pay for

When it comes to coffee makers, quality counts. If you buy the cheapest coffee maker on the market, you will likely end up with an equally “discounted” flavor in your cup. To ensure great tasting coffee day after day, check out the Bunn, Cuisinart, Mr. Coffee, Krups and Senseo brands. Alternatively, consult a French press. For that personal cup of coffee, you can never go wrong with a French press!

2. Clean as a whistle

You wouldn’t cook your favorite entree in a dirty skillet, would you? So why are so many people surprised at how bad their homemade coffee tastes when they use the same coffee maker every day without even cleaning it? Try baking soda and water for a great cleanup after every pot you make.

3. Everything is in the bean

If you are not grinding your own coffee, where do you have beans? The best tasting coffees come from freshly ground, premium quality beans. You can savor the taste of gourmet barista-style coffees in your own home simply by grinding small batches of your own brew. To complete the perfect mug, you’ll want to use Arabica beans, simply the best in the world! Store your beans and ground coffee in an airtight container in a cool, dark place at a temperature between 50º and 70º F.

4. Roasted and roasted for the “most exquisite” flavor

Once you’ve settled on the highest quality beans, you’ll want to consider how you like your roasted beans. Roasting unlocks the flavor of the bean and helps determine if your coffee is smooth, rich, or smooth. Experiment with a variety of roasts and choose which one you like best!

5. Grind it

Even though many store-bought coffees say “For All Coffeemakers,” selecting the right grind for your coffeemaker is key to making that perfect cup. A general guideline for grinds includes:

Automatic drip: medium grind

Plunger or French Press – Coarse Grinding

Percolator: coarser grind

Espresso machine: fine ground

6. What’s in your water?

When it comes to coffee, fresh is the name of the game and, believe it or not, fresh water will make a huge difference in every cup. Think about it: Since your coffee is 99% water, you’ll want to make sure you choose the best tasting water you can find. Bottled, distilled, or purified water seems to do the trick for countless H2O-conscious coffee connoisseurs.

7. Measure it

To ensure perfection every time, you want to make sure you scoop out the correct amount of coffee grounds with a spoon. Of course, your personal taste preference should be the final judge, but a general rule of thumb is 1 to 2 tablespoons of coffee grounds for every six ounces of water.

8. Bling, Bling in your coffee?

While we’re not talking about diamonds or platinum, using gold (or stainless steel) mesh filters in your coffee maker will go a long way toward making your cup of coffee taste great. Many paper filters release bleaches, chlorine, and dyes that can leave you with a bitter cup of coffee. If you must use paper, choose unbleached filters for best results.

9. Prepare it well

A key to great tasting coffee every time is making sure the water is “off the boil,” a fancy term that simply means “not too boiling.” To achieve this water temperature, bring the water to a boil and then let it cool for a few moments (195-205 ° F) and you will ensure a perfect cup every time.

10. Drink it in style

Drink your gourmet coffee fresh from a glass or porcelain mug. Unless you like the bitter taste, avoid reheating your coffee in the microwave or on the stove.

If you keep brewing with these ten timeless tips in mind, you’re sure to find your mug brimming with great-tasting coffee every time!