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How to Brew Coffee With a Chemex

Want to know how to brew coffee with a chemex? Here are 6 easy steps that break down the process and make chemex brewing easy!

The chemex is certainly a preferred brewing method here at Bean Box. It brews up a clean and aromatic cup of coffee with far less sediment than other brewing methods. It is not only easy to use but is easy on the eyes with its timeless design. It is the perfect coffee gadget for entertaining and looks beautiful in any kitchen.

Here is what you will need:

Chemex Brewer
Chemex Filters
A quality grinder
Goose-neck Kettle (we like this one) or kettle to boil water in
A coffee scoop or scale for measuring coffee
Your favorite freshly roasted coffee beans

1. Measure & Grind Beans

First, measure out 2 tablespoons (10 grams) of coffee beans for every 6 ounces of water. To make a 30 oz. chemex, we will use 10 tablespoons (50 grams) of coffee. Grind the coffee to a medium consistency for the beans to absorb the water. This grind gives you a cleaner cup of coffee with less sediment when using a chemex. Try brewing an African coffee for an even brighter, tea-like taste.

2. Measure & Heat the Water

photo credit: Hario V60 via photopin (license)

Measure out around 2 cups of filtered water and heat to 204-205 degrees°F, or you can bring to a boil on the stove top and let it sit for a few seconds.

3. Place Filter In the Chemex & Rinse

Open the paper filter and place it into your chemex. Take your heated water and pour it over the filter to preheat and set the filter in place. This is called “rinsing” the filter.

4. Bloom the Coffee

photo credit: First try of the Chemex via photopin (license)

Place your ground coffee into the filter and pour over just enough of your heated water to saturate the grounds. Then let it sit and “bloom” for a few minutes. A “bloom” is created when water hits the coffee grounds and releases bubbles of carbon dioxide from the coffee. The coffee will bloom longer the fresher it is, and you should see a rainbow coloring on the bubbles.

Coffee Hint: When the coffee is blooming make sure to go in and smell coffee. That’s when you get the best aromas!

5. The Pour Over

photo credit: Coffee goodness in action at Brown Coffee Co. via photopin (license)

Once the blooming process is complete, slowly pour the water in a circular motion over the grounds until the chemex is 3/4 full. Make sure all the grounds are being saturated then wait for the water to be absorbed and repeat the process until your coffee is fully filtered.

6. Remove Filter & enjoy