The Benefits of Making Pour Over Coffee: Why You Should Try It Today
Coffee lovers are always on the hunt for the perfect cup, and if you haven’t tried making pour over coffee yet, you’re missing out on one of the best brewing methods available. The pour over coffee system is a favourite among coffee enthusiasts because it offers complete control over the brewing process, resulting in a richer and more flavourful cup. Whether you're using a Chemex, V60 or another pourover coffee brewer, this method can elevate your coffee game to new heights.
In this article, we'll explore why pour over coffee is worth trying, the benefits it offers, and how to get started with the right equipment. Let’s dive in!
What is Pour Over Coffee?
Pour over coffee is a manual brewing method where hot water is slowly poured over ground coffee in a filter, allowing the coffee to extract gradually. The water passes through the grounds, dripping into a pour over coffee pot or carafe. Unlike automatic coffee makers, the pour over drip coffee maker requires precision and patience, making it a rewarding experience for coffee lovers.
Why Choose Pour Over Coffee?
The pourover coffee brewer has gained popularity for good reason. Here are some of the main benefits of using a pour over coffee system:
1. Enhanced Flavor and Aroma
One of the biggest reasons to switch to a pour over drip coffee maker is the enhanced flavor profile. Since you have full control over the brewing process, you can fine-tune the water temperature, pour rate, and extraction time to bring out the best flavours from your coffee beans. Unlike drip machines that can sometimes produce flat-tasting coffee, the pourover coffee brewing method ensures a more balanced, aromatic, and complex cup.
2. Full Control Over Brewing
With a pour over coffee system, you control every aspect of the brewing process. This includes:
Water temperature
Grind size
Coffee-to-water ratio
Pour speed
This level of precision allows you to experiment with different techniques and recipes until you find the perfect cup that suits your taste preferences.
3. No Bitter or Burnt Taste
Drip coffee makers and automatic machines often over-extract coffee, leading to a bitter taste. Because a pour over drip coffee maker allows for even saturation and precise extraction, the result is a smoother, cleaner, and more enjoyable coffee experience.
4. Fresher Coffee Every Time
Using the pour over coffee/V60 technique means you’re brewing coffee one cup (or batch) at a time, ensuring every cup is as fresh as possible. Unlike large automatic coffee machines that leave coffee sitting for hours, pour over brewing is done right before you drink it, maintaining the freshest flavours.
5. Environmentally Friendly
A pourover coffee brewer is one of the most eco-friendly ways to make coffee. Many pour over coffee systems use reusable filters or biodegradable paper filters, reducing waste compared to single-use coffee pods and plastic-heavy automatic brewers.
6. Affordable and Accessible
Unlike high-end espresso machines, a best pour over drip coffee maker is relatively affordable. You can find excellent pourover coffee brewers such as the Hario V60 (view on Amazon) at various price points, making it an accessible choice for both beginners and coffee aficionados.
7. A Calming and Ritualistic Brewing Process
Brewing coffee with a pour over coffee system is a meditative process that can help you slow down and enjoy the moment. The act of carefully pouring water over coffee grounds and watching the coffee bloom is a simple yet rewarding ritual.
How to Make Pour Over Coffee Like a Pro
Now that you know why the pour over coffee method is fantastic, let’s go over how to make the perfect cup. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Equipment:
A pour over dripper (such as a Hario V60, Chemex, or Kalita Wave)
Freshly ground coffee beans (medium-coarse grind)
A gooseneck kettle (for precise pouring)
A coffee scale (for accuracy)
A paper or metal filter (depending on your brewer)
Step-by-Step Brewing Guide:
Boil Your Water: Heat water to around 195°F - 205°F (90°C - 96°C) for optimal extraction.
Prepare Your Filter: Place a paper filter in your pourover coffee brewer and rinse it with hot water to remove any paper taste and preheat your brewer.
Measure Your Coffee: A good starting ratio is 1:16 (1 gram of coffee for every 16 grams of water). For one cup, use 15-18 grams of coffee.
Bloom the Coffee: Add a small amount of hot water (twice the weight of the coffee grounds) and let it sit for 30 seconds. This allows gases to escape and enhances flavour. Perfect Daily Grind recommend stirring the grounds during this faze for an even extraction.
Begin Pouring: Slowly pour the remaining water in a circular motion, ensuring all grounds are evenly saturated. Take your time—this step is key to a balanced extraction.
Let It Drip: The coffee should take about 3-4 minutes to fully drip through.
Enjoy! Pour your fresh coffee into a mug and savor the flavors.
Choosing the Best Pour Over Drip Coffee Maker
With so many options available, choosing the right pourover coffee brewer can be overwhelming. Here are a few top choices:
Hario V60: Ideal for those who want a high level of control and precision. (View on Amazon)
Chemex: A stylish glass pour over coffee pot that delivers smooth, clean coffee. (View on Amazon)
Kalita Wave: Great for beginners due to its flat-bottomed design that ensures even extraction. (View on Amazon)
Melitta Pour Over Brewer: An affordable and easy-to-use option for those new to pour over coffee systems. (View on Amazon)
Final Thoughts: Is Pour Over Coffee Worth It?
Absolutely! Investing in a drip coffee maker can completely change the way you experience coffee. Whether you’re looking for a more flavorful brew, greater control over the process, or a relaxing coffee-making ritual, the pour over coffee system delivers it all.
So why not give it a try? With the right tools and a little practice, you’ll soon be brewing some of the best coffee you’ve ever had—right in your own kitchen!