How To Use a Siphon Coffee Maker (Step-By-Step)
Setting up a siphon coffee maker might look intimidating. But once you understand the basics, it’s surprisingly straightforward. So let's see how you can do this:
Ingredients
- Siphon Coffee Maker: Including top and bottom chambers, stand, filter, and burner
- 300 ml of water: Adjust based on your coffee-to-water preference
- 20 grams of coffee grounds: A medium to coarse grind works best here
- Favorite Coffee: I personally love using Counter Culture Coffee’s Big Trouble blend. But you can use another one
Instructions
- Assemble the Siphon: Start by setting up the stand if your siphon has one. Attach the bottom and top chambers, ensuring they’re securely fitted together. Most siphons come with a glass or plastic rod to help connect these chambers, so use it to check that everything is lined up.
- Prepare the Filter: Siphon filters vary. So check what type you have—whether cloth or metal. For cloth filters, immerse it in hot water for a few minutes before placing it in the bottom chamber. Then attach the filter to the siphon’s top chamber, typically by hooking a small chain or attaching it securely to the bottom.
- Add Water to the Bottom Chamber: Measure out the amount of water you’ll need for your coffee. A standard rule is about 300 ml of water per 20 grams of coffee, but adjust based on your preference. Pour the water directly into the bottom chamber and place it on the heat source.
- Add Coffee Grounds to the Top Chamber: While the water heats, add your coffee grounds to the top chamber. A medium to coarse grind works best for siphon coffee. This step is where you can play with ratios if you like your coffee stronger or lighter.
- Heat the Water: Apply medium heat to the bottom chamber, usually with an alcohol burner or butane burner. As the water heats up, it will start moving up into the top chamber. This process is pretty magical to watch, but be patient; it takes a few minutes for the full effect.
- Start the Brew: Once the water has moved into the top chamber, use a small spoon to gently stir the coffee grounds to ensure they’re fully immersed. Let the coffee steep for about 1–2 minutes, depending on your flavor preference.
- Remove the Heat Source: After the coffee has brewed for your desired time, remove the heat source. As the bottom chamber cools, it will create a vacuum effect, drawing the brewed coffee back down through the filter and leaving the grounds behind in the top chamber.
- Serve and Enjoy: Detach the top chamber carefully—it’ll be hot! Pour your freshly brewed siphon coffee into your cup and savor the unique flavors this brewing method brings out.
Video
Notes
Enjoy the process and remember to experiment with grind sizes, coffee-to-water ratios, and brew times to find your ideal cup!