Coffee plays a significant role in the daily lives of many people. It serves as a source of energy over half of the population in the US.
However, not all coffee is created equal, especially during the summer months. When the weather gets warmer, lots of coffee enthusiasts opt for a refreshing cold brew instead of their usual hot cup of coffee. But what exactly is cold brew coffee?
Well, cold brew coffee is more than just chilled coffee. It involves a different brewing method altogether. Interestingly, it never comes into contact with hot water. This unique brewing process results in a remarkably smooth flavor that keeps people coming back for more.
Now, you might be wondering, What Is the Best Coffee for Cold Brew? If you’re curious, keep reading to find out!
- Which Bean Is Best
When it comes to making cold brew coffee, there’s a unique advantage—it’s more forgiving compared to other brewing methods. This means that you can use almost any type of coffee bean to create a tasty cold brew.
That said, cold brewing coffee tends to cut down on some of the acidity and bitterness. So, it’s best to choose coffee beans that won’t work against this change. Avoid beans known for their high acidity.
The ideal beans for cold brew are those with earthy undertones and strong flavors. Once you find your perfect bean, it’s a good idea to buy beans in bulk. That way, you’ll always be prepared to make a delicious cold brew whenever you want.
- Dark, Medium, Or Light Roast?
When it comes to which roast to choose for your cold brew, you will find an abundance of differing opinions. The bottom line is that this factor really comes down to personal preference.
Play around with some different roasts and see which you like best. Many coffee enthusiasts say that light roast coffee loses its flavor when put through the cold brew process, and that dark or medium roast flavors hold up better to the long extraction process.
- The Perfect Brewing Temperature
To make true cold brew coffee you’ll want to brew the coffee grounds at the right temperature. This temperature is normally between 35 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
You will take your coffee grounds and steep them in the water for up to 24 hours before filtering the coffee grounds out of your fresh batch of cold brew.
- Does Grind Matter?
Another thing to consider when making cold brew is the grind of your bean. You’ll want to opt for a coarse grind.
This type of grind allows for the perfect drip during the long extraction period. Finer grinds tend to end up over-extracted and can lead to a bitter taste.
- The Extra Effort
If you are going through the process of making cold brew, be sure to take those extra steps to ensure it is the perfect type of coffee. Make coffee ice cubes, so that your cold brew won’t get watered down.
Be sure to use filtered water to give your coffee the cleanest taste possible. Play around with different beans and steep times, so that you find the perfect recipe for your own cold brew.
These little changes will ensure that your cold brew reaches its fullest flavor potential.
Finding The Best Coffee For Cold Brew
As mentioned above, there are few factors that play into finding the best coffee for cold brew. And a lot of it comes down to your own personal flavor preference.
Explore your coffee options and follow these tips to make the perfect cup of cold brew every time. For more tips and tricks, check back on our blog!
