Introduction: How to Make the Best Cup of Coffee Every Time

I was tired of drinking crappy weak coffee, and I didn't like spending a fortune every day just to get a decent cup of coffee. I like my coffee fresh and strong, but nothing I had would make it strong enough.

I went through a variety of devices - Keurig, drip coffee maker, percolator - before I finally came across a french press and I haven't turned back!

It makes the best cup of coffee every time, doesn't require a lot of work and doesn't cost a fortune. In this Instructable, I will show you how I make my coffee every morning before I head out for the day.

Step 1: The Set-Up

To get started you need:

  • A French Press - most homegoods stores sell these. You can get a decent one for around $20
  • Coffee - Good coffee is key. Splurge on a good brand, you deserve it! I choose dark roasts. I also buy whole bean coffee and grind it daily, but that is optional
  • Coffee Scooper or Tablespoon - I have a coffee scooper which is equivalent to 2 tablespoons.You can pick those up in homegoods stores as well for a few bucks, but a tablespoon is all that you really need.
  • Coffee Grinder (optional)
  • Kettle - I like to use an electric kettle then I do not have to pay attention to a kettle on the stove. I can turn it on and continue getting ready for the day. You could also just use a pot to boil your water.
  • Timer - Maybe you're better at paying attention, but I get side tracked easily. I use my microwave timer since it is right above my coffee station.

Step 2: Boil Water

I first turn on my electric kettle as it takes the most time. Of course, you can use anything that boils water; it doesn't have to be an electric kettle. I just like the leave-it-and-forget-it aspect of an electric kettle. I make sure I boil at least 6-cups of water since my french press makes 6-cups of coffee.

Step 3: Measure and Prepare Your Coffee

You can use already ground coffee, but I like to grind my coffee every morning because I think it makes it more flavorful. Plus, it literally takes seconds. You can get a basic coffee grinder for around $20.

When measuring your coffee the rule of thumb is 1 tablespoon of ground coffee per cup of water. I use a 6-cup french press, so I grind 6 tablespoons (or 3 coffee-scooper scoops) of coffee.

Add the coffee to the french press and wait for the water to come to a boil.

Step 4: Add Hot Water and Wait

When the water has come to a boil. pour the hot water over the coffee in the french press making sure you have covered all the grounds. DO NOT PRESS DOWN YET.

Set your timer for 4 minutes and wait. If you like your coffee more or less strong, you can adjust the time. When the 4 minutes have passed, press down on the press. Now your coffee is ready to serve!

Step 5: Enjoy!

Now you get to enjoy the best cup of coffee that only took you minutes to prepare. I often drink my coffee black because even though it is strong, it is also smooth and not bitter (another reason to buy great coffee).