Introduction
AeroPress is a simple device for brewing an excellent cup of coffee. It is loved by the specialty coffee community for its versatility, ease of use, and speed. No matter what type of coffee you want to enjoy, whether it’s regular pour-over coffee, an espresso-like cup, or cold brew, the coffee brewing possibilities with AeroPress are endless. In 2019, AeroPress expanded its product line by introducing the AeroPress Go. Since I am always on the move and have spent most of the last five years living out of my bag, this mini version has become my top choice to satisfy my coffee cravings on the go. I am excited to share how to use the AeroPress professionally and take brewing skills to a new level.
How to Use AeroPress Go – Parts
AeroPress and AeroPress Go are very similar. I have both, but I enjoy the latter while traveling because it comes with a mini version of the plunger and chamber, a filter cap, a folding stirrer, a scoop, filter papers, and a practical filter holder. All these parts fit neatly into a portable cup covered with a silicone lid. In practice, it works the same way as the classic AeroPress. The main difference is the smaller serving size, which is 8 ounces instead of 10 ounces.
How to Brew with AeroPress Go – Step-by-Step Instructions for the Standard Method by Finnish Barista Champion Jarnu Pirakila
The Finnish brewing champion and founder of Leaky Coffee, Jarnu Pirakila, developed a fantastic recipe for quick and easy brewing using the AeroPress Go. I got amazing results by setting my Commandante grinder to 16 clicks, but I encourage you to experiment with different grind settings to adapt the flavor to your taste. Jarnu recommends grinding the coffee slightly finer than you would for V60.
Recipe by Jarnu Pirakila:
15.3 grams of coffee
225 milliliters of water
Brew time 1:30
How to brew step by step:
1. Heat your AeroPress by rinsing it with hot water and rinse one filter in the filter cap
2. Place the filter cap on the chamber, set it on a cup or coffee maker, and add 15.3 grams of ground coffee
3. Pour 225 milliliters of water from just off the boil as quickly as possible
4. Stir three times forward and back, then place the plunger on top to create pressure in the brewing chamber
5. After one minute, remove the plunger and stir three times forward and back
6. Place the plunger back and press gently so that the total brew time is 1:30 (if the coffee starts splattering from the sides, try pressing more gently)
Guidelines for the Inverted Method by German AeroPress Champion Mateusz Betliński
Mateusz Betliński, the 2015 World Cup Champion of Coffee Lovers and 2015 German AeroPress Champion, is currently responsible for the coffee quality at a specialty coffee roastery in Düsseldorf, Germany called Rösterei VIER. During the competition, he used the inverted method, which turns the AeroPress into a full immersion coffee brewing device. His winning recipe yields a cup of coffee that resembles freshly squeezed fruit juice.
Recipe by Mateusz Betliński:
30 grams of coffee, coarse grind for filter
120 milliliters of water + 120 milliliters of passed water
Brew time 2:15
How to brew step by step:
1. Heat your AeroPress by rinsing it with hot water and rinse two filters in the filter cap to increase clarity in the cup
2. For the inverted method, gently attach the plunger to the chamber to create a seal, then flip the AeroPress and add 30 grams of ground coffee to the chamber
3.
Slowly add 120 grams of water at a temperature of 93 degrees Celsius
4. Take the stirring rod and gently stir for 30 seconds until all the coffee particles fully absorb the water
5. Attach the filter cap and gently press to expel any air afterwards
6. Flip the AeroPress back and place it over a cup or coffee maker immediately
7. Let it sit for 45 seconds
8. Press the plunger for 30 seconds
9. Using these instructions, you will extract 80 grams of concentrate, then add 120 milliliters of hot water to it, and pour the drink back and forth between the cup until it reaches a drinking temperature of 60 degrees Celsius
Common AeroPress Go Issues
Although the AeroPress is simple and easy to use, it is not immune to brewing mistakes. But don’t worry, because we have solutions for the common problems you might encounter while using the AeroPress.
Leaks during the brewing process: If you notice that your AeroPress is leaking during brewing, it may be due to a worn seal on the plunger. Make sure to remove coffee residues after each use, and if the problem persists, you might need to replace the rubber seal.
Difficulty pushing the plunger: If you encounter difficulty pushing the plunger, it may be due to the grind size being too fine. Adjust your coffee grinder to a slightly coarser grind, and ensure the filter cap is secured tightly but not overly tightened. Coffee leaking from the sides of the cup and over the top when pressing may be due to excessive pressure or using overly fine grind. You could try pressing more gently, use a coarser grind, or use your arm to assist the plunger instead of pressing with your hand. Additionally, you can purchase the Prismo attachment which increases pressure and prevents leaking.
Weak or watery coffee: This may be due to using a slightly larger grind or insufficient coffee quantity. Try using a grind that resembles table salt and experiment with the coffee-to-water ratio to find the right balance.
Over-extracted or bitter coffee: If your coffee tastes over-extracted or bitter, it may be due to the water temperature being too high or an excessively long brew time. Try lowering the water temperature to around 85-95 degrees Celsius, and if necessary, reduce your brew time.
AeroPress falling during brewing: This can be a frustrating problem, especially when brewing using the inverted method. Ensure that the surface you are using is level and stable, and use a heavier cup or coffee maker to help keep the AeroPress in place.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ideal water temperature for AeroPress brewing?
The recommended water temperature for AeroPress brewing is between 85-95 degrees Celsius (185-203 degrees Fahrenheit). However, it’s worth experimenting to find what suits your taste.
How does the flavor of coffee change when brewing using the standard method versus the inverted method?
The standard method often results in a clean and refreshing cup due to the shorter immersion time, while the inverted method generally allows for a longer steep, resulting in a stronger and more complex flavor.
Can AeroPress be used to make cold coffee?
Certainly! Although this is not its typical use, the AeroPress is versatile and capable of making cold coffee. Just steep the coffee grounds in cold water in the AeroPress chamber for an extended period (usually taking 12-24 hours) before pressing.
How much
How often should AeroPress filters be changed?
AeroPress paper filters are single-use and should be replaced with every use. If you’re using a reusable metal filter, rinse it well after each use and clean it regularly to prevent oil and residue buildup.
What is the best coffee grind size for AeroPress?
AeroPress works well with a medium to fine grind, similar to the texture of table salt. However, feel free to experiment with grind size, as it greatly contributes to the flavor of the coffee you brew.
SLURP’s Experience with Some of the Best Coffees in the World
To prepare this guide on how to use AeroPress, I collaborated with an international specialty coffee subscription service known as SLURP. It is a platform for high-quality coffee in Germany, Finland, Japan, and the UK. In their online store, you will find fresh roasted coffee beans from the best small roasters in Finland and Germany, which ship worldwide. The founders established the business in 2014 in Helsinki with a vision to make the coffee industry more sustainable. What sets SLURP apart is their continuous pursuit of transparency. All types of coffee come with a description that details everything possible, from SCA tasting scores to the farm, harvest season, and coffee sorting process. Additionally, you can personalize your experience with SLURP. Depending on your skill level, preferred roast, flavor profile, and preferred brewing equipment, SLURP will curate a perfect match for you every two or four weeks. Subscriptions are flexible and can be paused at any time.
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Source: https://www.thewaytocoffee.com/aeropress-brew-guide/
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