French Press Coffee Maker
A French Press Coffee Maker is a simple and easy method of brewing a rich tasting cup of coffee in just a few minutes. No electrical outlet required....just your french press coffeemaker, course ground coffee and hot water!
The French press, also known as a press pot, coffee press, coffee plunger or сafetière à piston, is a simple coffee brewing device consisting of a narrow cylindrical beaker usually made of glass or clear plastic, equipped with a lid and a "plunger", made of metal or plastic, which fits tightly in the cylinder and which has a fine wire or nylon mesh filter.
It's origins date back to the 1850's although it was first patented in 1929 by Italian designer Attilio Calimani.
To prepare coffee in a french press coffee maker, course ground coffee is stirred into hot (not boiling) water, placing the lid over the mixture and letting it stand for several minutes. The length of time you let the coffee brew depends on your own personal taste, so it takes a bit of experimentation.
When the brewing is complete, press the plunger down and it separates the grounds from the coffee, and your french press coffee is ready to consume!
Read all the details about making French Press Coffee
It is really quite simple, cost effective and (in my opinion) is a fun way to prepare coffee, although it takes a few minutes longer than using a traditional coffee maker.
HERE'S A TIP: When I use my french press, it takes several minutes to heat the water, then after I stir it up and place the lid on top, I wait about 8 minutes or so before plunging the brew.
It's a great alternative to the auto drip coffee makers when I am in the mood for the rich taste of this coffee.
In addition to the two french press coffee machines shown above, here are some great choices from Bodum, a premier name in the french press world!