The Chemex looks like something out of a science lab — and it makes one of the cleanest, smoothest cups of coffee you can brew at home. It uses a thick paper filter that catches all the fine particles, leaving you with a bright, clear cup that lets the natural flavors of your coffee really come through. If you enjoy a lighter, refined cup, you'll love this.
How to Make It:
You'll need: 3 tablespoons / 30g of ground coffee | 1.5 cups / 480ml of hot water (just off the boil — around 200°F / 93°C)
- Open the paper filter and place it inside the top of the Chemex with the thicker side facing the spout. Run some hot water through it to rinse it, then pour that water out.
- Add your ground coffee to the filter.
- Pour just enough hot water to wet all the coffee grounds — about 2–3 tablespoons / 60ml. Wait 45 seconds. You'll notice the coffee puffing up slightly — that's normal and a good sign.
- Slowly pour the rest of your hot water in a gentle circular motion, like you're drawing small circles over the coffee. Don't rush this — take your time.
- Let all the water drip through completely. This takes about 4–5 minutes.
- Remove the filter, pour your coffee, and enjoy.
Tip: If your coffee takes longer than 6 minutes to drip through, your grind is too fine. If it's done in under 3 minutes, it's too coarse. Adjust next time.