Brewing guide
French Press Brewing: Ratio, Time and Less Sediment
Brew 30 g coffee with 500 g water using a coarse grind and about four minutes of steeping. Lower the plunger slowly and transfer the coffee promptly to a cup or carafe.
In a French press, coffee steeps in water. The metal filter lets oils and some fine particles reach the cup, so expect more body than with paper-filter methods. The goal is a balanced cup you enjoy, not necessarily a completely sediment-free drink. Measuring the dose and separating the brewed coffee from the grounds are two useful habits for repeatability.
Starting recipe
| Coffee | 30 g |
|---|---|
| Water | 500 g |
| Ratio | 1:16.7 |
| Grind | Coarse |
| Water temperature | 92–94°C |
| Steep | 4 min |
Equipment
- French press
- Scale and timer
- Kettle and spoon
- Serving carafe if needed
Step by step
1. Measure the coffee
Add 30 g coarsely ground coffee to a clean chamber. Check capacity: 500 g water plus coffee may exceed a vessel’s nominal serving size.
2. Add the water
Add 500 g water and stir gently just enough to wet all the grounds. Start the timer and fit the lid without pressing the plunger.
3. Steep for four minutes
After four minutes, gently break the surface crust with a spoon. Vigorous stirring or fast plunging can disturb fine particles.
4. Press and serve
Lower the plunger slowly. If resistance is excessive, do not force it; check the grind and filter. Transfer the coffee into another vessel promptly.
Amounts for one or two servings
15 g / 250 g water is a starting point for one large cup. Divide 30 g / 500 g into two servings. Do not confuse these portions with small cup markings on the vessel; weigh the total water.
Body, strength and bitterness differ
Oils passing through the metal filter can increase the sensation of body. A slightly higher dose can increase strength; steeping longer is a different adjustment. Distinguish a strong, balanced cup from an unpleasantly bitter one.
Troubleshooting
| Too much sediment | Check grind size and fines from your grinder; press slowly and consider leaving the last sip. |
|---|---|
| Bitter, stale-tasting coffee | Do not leave the brewed coffee in the chamber. Consider the influence of roast preference too. |
| Weak coffee | Check the weights first. Increase the dose slightly at the same water amount rather than changing time and ratio together. |
Frequently asked questions
Can I use Turkish-coffee grind?
It is unsuitable for this recipe: very fine particles increase sediment and resistance. Choose a coarse grind.
Is four minutes an absolute rule?
It is a starting time. Make small experiments for the coffee, grind and taste.
Is frothing milk the same process?
No. Brewing coffee and frothing milk are different uses; follow the volume, temperature and cleaning guidance in the milk guide.
Choosing coffee
Start with House Blend and compare Brazil for another everyday cup. Select a French-press grind when ordering.
Related guides
- How to Froth Milk with a French Press
- How to Make Cold Brew at Home: Ratio and Filtering
- Coffee Grind Size Guide: Match Your Brewing Method
These measurements are starting suggestions; adjust for your equipment and taste. The image is an AI-generated illustration.