My Current Daily Driver: Hario Switch + Sibarist

Summary

In this video, the host explores different brewing methods using the Hario Switch and Clever coffee dripper. He shares insights from his experiments comparing extraction rates and flavors, emphasizing the benefits of immersion brewing for achieving good texture and mouthfeel. The host also tests various filter papers, including the Sibarist fast flow filters, and discusses their impact on brew time and extraction quality. He concludes that while the Sibarist filters produce a quick brew, they still deliver a flavorful cup, highlighting the versatility of different brewing techniques.

Takeaways

• ☕️ The Hario Switch is a unique coffee brewing method that combines immersion and percolation techniques.
• 🔍 Comparing the Hario Switch to the Clever coffee dripper reveals differences in drawdown times and extraction methods.
• ⏳ A typical brew involves steeping 15 grams of coffee with 250 grams of water for about two minutes before draining.
• 💧 Infusion brewing allows for even extraction as all coffee grounds get wet without worrying about channeling.
• ⚖️ The drawdown time can be affected by the grind size, with finer particles potentially slowing the flow.
• 📏 Testing two brewing methods highlights significant differences in extraction levels, which affect taste.
• 😋 Infusion brews can yield a pleasant texture and body, even when the extraction percentage isn’t optimal.
• 🧪 Using a refractometer can help measure extraction levels and understand the differences in brewing methods.
• ✨ Sibarist filters offer a faster drawdown and unique flavor profiles, though they may come at a higher cost.
• 🎄 An ugly coffee Christmas jumper was designed to celebrate coffee culture, showcasing various coffee tools in a fun way.

Q & A

What brewing method is being discussed in the video?

The video discusses brewing coffee using Hario's Switch, comparing it to the Clever coffee dripper.

What is the main advantage of steep and release brewers like the Hario Switch?

Steep and release brewers allow for an initial infusion phase where coffee and water mix, followed by a percolation phase, which helps achieve an even extraction.

How does the drawdown mechanism of the Hario Switch differ from that of the Clever dripper?

The Hario Switch uses a metal ball bearing as a stopper that releases the coffee when the switch is pushed, while the Clever dripper uses a stopper that opens when placed on a cup.

What specific experiment did the presenter conduct with the Hario Switch?

The presenter compared the standard brew method with the Hario filters to an immersion-only method where the coffee was decanted without passing through the bed of grounds.

What does the refractometer measure in the context of coffee brewing?

The refractometer measures the refractive index of the brewed coffee, indicating how much coffee solubles have been extracted into the liquid.

What were the results of comparing the extraction levels of the different brew methods?

The standard brew with immersion and percolation produced a higher extraction level compared to the immersion-only brew, although the latter still yielded a surprisingly good taste.

What unique characteristics do Sibarist filters have compared to regular paper filters?

Sibarist filters are more porous, allowing coffee to drain faster, which can lead to some sediment in the cup, and they provide a different texture and extraction profile.

Why does the presenter mention the cost of the Hario Switch and Sibarist filters?

The presenter highlights the high cost to emphasize that while the equipment can yield good results, it may not be accessible to everyone, and they encourage supporting local businesses.

What was the overall conclusion regarding the effectiveness of infusion brewing methods?

The presenter concludes that infusion brewing methods can achieve good extraction and flavor even with coarser grind sizes, demonstrating a level of tolerance that can lead to enjoyable coffee.

What additional feature did the presenter promote towards the end of the video?

The presenter promoted a holiday-themed coffee jumper designed in collaboration with an artist, which is knitted to order and features coffee-related graphics.