How to Make Coffee with the Chemex Pour-over

The Chemex is a speciality device that allows for a slow brew that yields a full-bodied, sediment-free coffee. The coffee is brewed through infusion, and it could be compared to drip coffee in what relates to the final result.

You’ll find that the Chemex pour-over technique is not at all difficult, all that it requires is a little patience and delicacy while handling this elegant coffee maker.

How to Make Coffee with the Chemex Pour-over

Step 1: Boil the kettle with fresh, filtered water. You will need about 500ml for the actual brew, and some additional water for pre-rinsing the filter.

Step 2: The Chemex brewer uses a medium-fine grind. For the amount of water specified at step 1, grind about 30 grams of coffee, freshly roasted if possible.

Step 3: Insert the filter in the Chemex making sure that the triple-fold section is laying across the pour spout, facing it, but not obstructing it.

Step 4: Once the water has boiled, use some of it to rinse the filter, also warming up the carafe in the process. This will help you get rid of the taste of paper in your final cup, and will also help the filter better stick to the glass surface. Through the pour spout, pour out the rinsing water.

Step 5: Pour the coffee grounds into the filter, and give it a little shake to ensure even distribution.

Step 6: Let the boiled kettle sit a little before pouring, approximately a minute or two. You will now have to make your first pour.

For 30 grams of ground coffee, use 60ml of water. If you’re using a different dosage for the grounds, just use the double amount of water to the coffee. Pour slowly starting from the centre, and with a circular move, start going towards the edges. Let it brew for about 40 seconds.

Step 7: You can now gently stir the coffee with a chopstick, bamboo paddle, or wooden spoon. Stirring is not mandatory, and you can choose to skip this step if you do have a tool for this.

Step 8: Slowly add the rest of the water using the same technique as before. Whenever you’re using the Chemex pour-over brewing method, never fill the Chemex to the very top, but always leave about 2-3 centimetres of space. Once you’re done with the water, remove the filter, and pour this wonderful pour-over for serving.

The Chemex manual pour-over coffeemaker should not only be one of the must-have accoutrements in the home of any coffee fan, but also a beautiful item to own even if you’re just an occasional coffee drinker. However, don’t forget to also use it for its intended purpose, not only for display, as it truly does make a rich, delicious coffee.