As the name suggests, cold brew coffee is a method of brewing coffee using cold water rather than hot water. It involves steeping coffee grounds in cold or room temperature water for an extended period, usually between 12-24 hours, which results in a smooth and less acidic coffee concentrate.
There are several benefits to choosing cold brew over traditionally brewed coffee:
It has a lower acidity level, making it an excellent option for people who suffer from heartburn or acid reflux.
The process of steeping coffee grounds in cold water releases fewer bitter flavors, resulting in a less bitter and more rounded coffee taste.
Because it's a concentrate, you can mix it with various milk or milk substitutes, allowing for a broader range of flavor combinations.
Making cold brew coffee is a relatively simple process. You only need coarsely ground coffee beans, cold water, and a container to steep the coffee in. Here's how to make it:
1. Add 1 cup of coarsely ground coffee beans to a large container or mason jar.
2. Pour 4 cups of cold water over the coffee beans, ensuring all the grounds are wet.
3. Cover the container or mason jar with a lid and let it sit at room temperature for 12-24 hours.
4. After the coffee has steeped for the desired time, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve or coffee filter into another container.
5. Store the cold brew coffee concentrate in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
To serve, mix the cold brew concentrate with equal water or milk of your choice and sweeten with sugar or syrup if desired.
Overall, cold brew coffee is a refreshing alternative to traditional hot coffee, with a smoother and less acidic taste. It's also easy to make at home, so why not give it a try?
