French (Press) Class

For those of you who have yet to learn of the goodness of the French Press: behold - instructions.

A note about my press.  It's a cheapy little Bodum press that you can probably get at Target for $15-$20.  I'm not sure how many ounces it holds but it makes about two and a half mugs of coffee when full.

Step 1 - heat water in a tea kettle.

Step 2 - feed and water the cat while you wait.

Step 3 - add about 3/4 of a Tablespoon of your favorite coffee to the press.

[If you grind your beans at the store, or, even better, if your favorite barista grinds them for you, be sure to ask for it to be ground for a French press.  The grind is a little more coarse than what you'd use in an automatic coffee maker.  Sumatra is my absolute favorite, if you haven't tried it, give it a whirl.]

Step 4 - Just as the water comes to a boil, add it to your press.  If your kettle is at the point of whistling, take it off the heat and let it cool for about 30 seconds before you pour it.
[A sign of really fresh beans is the foam at the top of the brew.]

Step 5 - stir it up (sing a little Marley) with a plastic spoon.

Step 6 - place the press insert in the carafe and let it brew for about 5 minutes.

Step 7 - When your time is up, remove the cat from your lap so you can reach the press.

Step 8 - Slowly push the insert down to the bottom.  If you press it too quickly you'll likely end up with a delicious smelling mess.  Viola.

Step 9 - When you turn around to sit down, remember that your displaced lap cat has likely taken your seat.  Do not sit on the cat.

It is easy to forget this last step, especially because you have not had your coffee yet.