A Better 1 Cup V60 Technique

Summary

The video walks through an updated one-cup V60 pour-over coffee technique that is easier and delivers tastier results than a previous technique. Key aspects include using a plastic V60 brewer, 15g coffee ground finer than expected, and 250g water separated into 50g pours every 10 seconds. The pouring technique involves gentle circular pouring close to the coffee bed to evenly distribute and agitate grounds. Testing showed this achieves a balanced extraction and flavor while being repeatable. The focus is on proper grind size, fresh boiled water, and quality coffee rather than perfect technique to get a delicious cup.

Takeaways

• 😊 Using 60g coffee per liter, 15g coffee and 250g water for a one cup V60
• 😋 Aiming for 50g water pulses every ~10 seconds for even extraction
• 🌡️ Using water straight off the boil for light roasts
• 😎 Preheating the plastic V60 with hot water, not boiling
• ☕ Grinding relatively fine but not too fine to avoid channeling
• 🔁 Pouring in consistent circles across the coffee bed
• ⏱️ Targeting total brew time around 3 minutes
• 🤔 Pulse pouring to balance agitation and settling
• 👂 Listening to feedback and trying different techniques
• 😉 Focusing more on grind size and water than precise technique

Q & A

What was the main criticism of the original V60 technique?

The main criticism was that it was difficult to get great results with a smaller amount of coffee.

Why does the author recommend using a plastic V60 brewer?

The author recommends a plastic V60 because it is the cheapest option and also takes the least amount of work to preheat adequately using a hot water tap.

Why does the author recommend a finer grind for lighter roasted coffee?

The author recommends a finer grind for lighter roasted coffee to help extract more flavor and sweetness from the beans.

What is the benefit of blooming the coffee initially?

Blooming helps wet all the coffee grounds evenly so that the extraction starts evenly across the bed of coffee.

Why does the author recommend pulse pouring?

Pulse pouring provides even distribution and agitation of the coffee bed without causing channeling issues that can lead to uneven extraction.

How important is preheating the brewer?

Preheating is very important for taste, even if measurable extraction levels are similar. Cooler bloom temperatures give a less sweet, more acidic taste.

What water temperature is recommended for light roasted coffee?

For light roasted coffee, using water fresh off the boil at 100°C is recommended.

What factors are most important if the coffee tastes bad?

If the coffee tastes bad, the most likely factors are grind size/quality, water quality, or the coffee itself rather than issues with the brewing technique.

What is the ideal pour speed?

The author recommends a pour speed of around 5 grams per second as it provides a good level of agitation without causing channeling issues.

What are some key signs the grind may be too fine?

If the brewer fills to the brim, the total brew time exceeds 3 minutes significantly, or there is astringency/harsh bitterness in the taste, the grind is likely too fine.