Here at MochaSurf, we love a good cup of French Press-made coffee. Also known as a press pot or plunger pot, the French Press is unique among coffee brewing methods—and the difference between French Press coffee and say, the brew you typically get from an electric drip appliance can be profound. “But why?” you might ask. Well, we’re glad you did.
As always, the difference is in the details.
Full Immersion Brewing: In a French Press, coarsely ground coffee is fully immersed in hot water for an extended period—typically around 4 minutes. This type of process is usually associated with preparing hot tea, where the leaves are steeped in hot water. In this case, you’re steeping your favorite grind. This process allows for maximum extraction of flavors and oils from the coffee grounds, resulting in a rich and full-bodied cup of coffee.
Manual Operation: Unlike automatic drip coffee makers or espresso machines, the French Press is entirely manual. You control the brewing process from start to finish, including the pouring of water, steeping time, and plunging of the filter. This hands-on approach gives French Press aficionados a sense of control and customization over their coffee brewing experience. And in the increasingly electrified, automated and digitized world we’re living in, there’s something to be said for the occasional analog experience.
Metal Mesh Filter: The French Press uses a metal mesh filter—usually made of stainless steel—to separate the coffee grounds from the brewed coffee. Unlike paper filters used in other brewing methods, the mesh filter allows more oils and fine particles to pass through, resulting in a thicker and more flavorful brew. Not necessarily espresso-level, but certainly richer and more satisfying than traditional drip coffee. Even better, while you’re enjoying your creation, you get to take minute to pat yourself on the back for using a time tested, sustainable brewing method that reduces waste by eliminating paper filters from the equation.
Versatility: The French Press is not limited to brewing coffee. It can also be used to make loose-leaf tea or even infuse water with fruits and herbs. Its simplicity and versatility make it a popular choice among coffee enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike. Check out our French Press recipe blog for fun ideas on getting the most out your French Press.
Portable, Durable and Beautiful: French Presses are typically made of glass, stainless steel, or plastic. We have a particular fondness for our very own stainless steel mid-century contemporary edition, which is available in the store. Visually stunning, it’s perfect for use at home or in the office—and makes for a nice conversation piece, if we do say so ourselves. Enough of this banter…get pressing!
