How to Use Chemex Coffee Maker: A StepbyStep Guide

ByStella Bennett Updated

How to Use Chemex Coffee Maker?

To use a Chemex coffee maker, start by heating water to 205°F.

Preheat the carafe and rinse the paper filter with hot water.

Measure out 2 tablespoons of coffee beans for every 6 ounces of water.

Grind the coffee to a table salt-like consistency.

Slowly pour 100 grams of water over the coffee grounds in a concentric fashion and let it bloom for 30 seconds.

Split the next three pours into three equal parts, using about 200g of water for each pour.

Allow the coffee to finish dripping, then swirl the carafe and serve.

Clean the Chemex with warm water, soap, and a soft-bristled brush after each use.

Key Points:

  • Heat water to 205°F
  • Preheat carafe and rinse paper filter
  • Use 2 tablespoons of coffee beans for every 6 ounces of water
  • Grind coffee to table salt-like consistency
  • Slowly pour 100 grams of water over coffee grounds and let it bloom for 30 seconds
  • Split the next three pours into three equal parts with 200g of water each
  • Allow coffee to finish dripping, swirl carafe and serve
  • Clean Chemex with warm water, soap, and soft-bristled brush after each use

Did You Know?

1. Chemex coffee makers were invented by a chemist named Peter Schlumbohm in 1941. He used his knowledge of chemistry and laboratory techniques to create a unique coffee brewing system.

2. The hourglass shape of the Chemex coffee maker is not just for aesthetics. It actually serves a purpose in allowing the coffee to have a longer contact time with the water, resulting in a fuller and more flavorful cup of coffee.

3. The Chemex coffee maker was featured in the Museum of Modern Art in New York City and is considered a design icon. Its sleek and elegant design has made it a popular choice among coffee enthusiasts and design lovers alike.

4. Unlike most other coffee makers, the Chemex uses a thick paper filter that is up to 30% heavier than regular filters. This results in a cleaner and clearer brew, as the filter removes more oils and sediments from the coffee.

5. The Chemex coffee maker has been used in scientific experiments and research studies. Its precise brewing process and ability to maintain the temperature of the brewed coffee make it an ideal tool for analyzing the impact of variables such as water temperature and grind size on the final cup of coffee.

1. Introduction And Features Of The Chemex Coffee Maker

The Chemex coffee maker is a revolutionary invention in the world of coffee brewing. It was created by a chemist named Peter Schlumbohm in 1941. Schlumbohm’s goal was to design a coffee maker that not only produces a flavorful cup of coffee but also eliminates any bitterness or sediment. The result was the elegant and unique Chemex coffee maker.

The Chemex’s design is simple yet brilliant. It consists of a glass carafe made from borosilicate glass, a material known for its durability and heat resistance. The carafe is adorned with a stylish wooden collar and rawhide tie, adding a touch of elegance to its appearance. However, these decorative features also serve a practical purpose – they provide insulation, allowing you to handle the carafe without burning your hands.

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What sets the Chemex apart from other coffee makers is its patented filter. The filters are specially designed to be thicker than regular filters, allowing for a more controlled extraction process. This results in a clean and bright cup of coffee, with minimal sediment and no bitterness. The filter’s unique design also ensures that excess air escapes during the brewing process, further enhancing the taste and clarity of the coffee.

  • The Chemex coffee maker is a revolutionary invention in coffee brewing
  • Created by chemist Peter Schlumbohm in 1941
  • Designed to produce flavorful coffee without bitterness or sediment
  • Simple yet brilliant design with a glass carafe made from borosilicate glass
  • Adorned with a stylish wooden collar and rawhide tie for insulation and aesthetics
  • Patented filter that is thicker than regular filters
  • Allows for a more controlled extraction process, resulting in a clean and bright cup of coffee
  • Minimal sediment and no bitterness
  • Unique design ensures excess air escapes during brewing process, enhancing taste and clarity of coffee.

2. Accessories Needed For Using The Chemex

To fully enjoy the brewing experience with the Chemex, there are a few essential accessories that you will need. These include:

  • Chemex filters: They are integral to achieving the clean and sediment-free cup of coffee for which the Chemex is known. Make sure you have the correct size filters for your Chemex, as they come in various sizes to fit different models.

  • Coffee scoop or scale: It is essential for measuring the correct amount of coffee beans. While the general rule of thumb is 2 tablespoons (10 grams) of coffee beans for every 6 ounces of water in a Chemex, using a scale will provide more precise measurements and allow you to experiment with different brewing ratios.

  • Burr grinder: Highly recommended for grinding the coffee beans. A burr grinder produces uniform and consistent coffee grounds, which is crucial for achieving a balanced extraction. Grind the coffee to a table salt-like consistency for a cleaner cup of coffee.

  • Gooseneck kettle: Ideal for controlled pouring of water over the coffee grounds. Its narrow spout enables a slow and precise pour, ensuring even saturation of the grounds. This is especially important for the Chemex brewing process.

Always remember to use fresh coffee beans for the best results. Coffee beans start losing their flavor and aroma once they are roasted, so purchasing beans from reputable roasters and grinding them just before brewing will ensure a more flavorful cup of coffee.

3. Steps To Brew Coffee With The Chemex

Brewing coffee with the Chemex is a delightful and rewarding process. Follow these step-by-step instructions to make the perfect cup of coffee:

  • Heat the water: The water for the Chemex should be heated to 205°F (96°C). This can be achieved by boiling water and allowing it to cool for 30 seconds.

  • Prepare the filter: Place the Chemex filter onto the top of the carafe, ensuring that the side with three layers is facing the spout. Rinse the filter with hot water to preheat the carafe and remove any paper smell or taste.

  • Measure and grind the coffee: Measure out 2 tablespoons (10 grams) of coffee beans for every 6 ounces of water in a Chemex. Grind the coffee beans to a table salt-like consistency for optimal extraction.

  • Add the coffee grounds: Place the ground coffee into the filter, ensuring an even bed of grounds.

  • Start the brewing process: Slowly pour 100 grams of water over the coffee grounds in a concentric fashion, starting in the center and working your way out. This is called the bloom and allows the coffee to release its flavors.

  • Continue pouring: Split the next three pours into three equal parts, using about 200 grams of water for each pour. Aim to keep the coffee bed from completely draining in between pours.

  • Let it drip: Allow the coffee to finish dripping, then remove and compost the filter.

  • Serve and enjoy: Swirl the carafe to mix the coffee and serve it immediately. The Chemex is designed to provide a clean and bright cup of coffee, highlighting the unique flavors and characteristics of the beans.

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4. Comparing The Chemex To Other Coffee Makers

The Chemex and the HARIO V60 are both popular brewing methods among coffee enthusiasts, but they have distinct differences worth considering:

  • Material: The Chemex is made of glass, while the HARIO V60 comes in various materials such as ceramic, glass, or copper. This variation in material affects heat retention and overall brewing experience.

  • Size: The Chemex comes in multiple sizes, offering greater versatility in brew volume. On the other hand, the HARIO V60 typically comes in three sizes.

  • Filters: The Chemex’s patented filters result in a cleaner cup of coffee, while the HARIO V60 produces a more flavorful cup due to its different filters.

Another alternative brewing method is the AeroPress, which offers a unique brewing experience:

  • Efficiency and Portability: The AeroPress is known for its efficiency and portability, making it an excellent choice for travelers who want to brew coffee on the go.

  • Cup Profile: The AeroPress produces a cleaner cup of coffee, while the Chemex provides a fuller-bodied cup with its unique brewing process.

To sum up, each brewing method has its own unique qualities to offer. Understanding the differences between them can help coffee enthusiasts choose the method that best suits their preferences.

5. Final Tips For Using And Cleaning The Chemex

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Chemex, here are a few final tips:

  • Certain coffees are especially recommended for the Chemex, such as African coffees known for their bright and tea-like taste. Experiment with different origins to discover your preferred flavor profile.

  • After each use, clean the Chemex with warm water, soap, and a soft-bristled brush to prevent the build-up of bacteria. Avoid using scented soaps, as they may leave residues that affect the taste of future brews.

  • Store the Chemex with the wooden collar and rawhide tie intact, as they provide added insulation and protect the glass carafe.

  • Lastly, appreciate the brewing process with the Chemex. Its elegant design and the ritual of preparing coffee create a calming and enjoyable experience. Take your time, experiment with different ratios and techniques, and savor the delicious flavors that the Chemex brings to each cup of coffee.

  • Experiment with different ratios and techniques.

  • Savor the delicious flavors that the Chemex brings to each cup of coffee.
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Frequently Asked Questions

How much coffee do I use in a Chemex?

To achieve the desired flavor, it is recommended to begin with a ratio of 50 grams of coffee to 700 grams of water when using a Chemex. However, this can be altered based on personal preference. Experiment and fine-tune the measurements to create a cup of coffee that perfectly suits your taste buds. Remember, the joy of using a Chemex lies in the ability to adjust the quantities to achieve the ideal brew.

How much coffee do I use for 1 cup of Chemex?

For a single cup of coffee using a Chemex, the recommended amount of ground coffee is one rounded tablespoon for every 5 oz. cup. However, you can adjust this according to your taste preferences. If you prefer a stronger cup, feel free to add more coffee since the Chemex brewing process ensures a lack of bitterness in the final result. Experimenting with the right amount of coffee will allow you to find the perfect balance for your preferred strength and taste.

Is Chemex the best way to brew coffee?

The Chemex brewing method has gained recognition for its ability to produce a remarkably pure cup of coffee while minimizing sediment unlike any other brewing method. Its classic carafe design not only offers a clean and refined taste, but also adds a touch of elegance to any kitchen. With its user-friendly nature and visually appealing aesthetic, the Chemex proves to be an exceptional choice for coffee enthusiasts and a thoughtful gift for coffee aficionados.

How to make 1 cup of Chemex?

To make 1 cup of Chemex coffee, begin by measuring out 3 tablespoons of coffee grounds. Then, take 1 cup of water and heat it to the desired brewing temperature. Next, carefully pour the hot water over the coffee grounds in a circular motion, ensuring all grounds are saturated. Allow the coffee to brew for the desired amount of time, typically between 3 and 4 minutes. Finally, slowly pour the brewed coffee into your cup, savoring the rich aroma and flavors that the Chemex method brings out in every sip.