French press (plunger coffee maker): how to choose and use it

French press (plunger coffee maker): how to choose and use it

The French press is one of the simplest (and cheapest) ways to make coffee with a rich texture. In Portugal, you may also find the term "cafeteira de êmbolo"; in dictionaries, " French press" appears as prensa francesa.

1) What makes the French press different?

Unlike paper-based methods, the French press allows some of the coffee's natural oils to pass through, resulting in:

  • more body

  • more “velvety” sensation

  • fuller flavor

The secret to avoiding bitterness or a "muddy" taste lies in three things: grinding, temperature, and time .

2) Basic recipe (to get it right the first time)

The National Coffee Association (About Coffee) suggests the following quick figures:

  • coarse grind (like "coarse salt")

  • ~93 ± 3°C

  • ~4 minutes of coffee-water contact

  • Typical ratio 1:10 to 1:16 (by weight)

Easy example (500 ml)

  • 35g of coffee (start here and adjust)

  • 500 g/ml of hot water

  • 4 min

Tip: if it becomes bitter/rough , it may be too thin or left for too long; if it becomes watery , it may be too thick or the dose too low.

3) How to choose a good French press (without overpaying)

Capacity

  • 350–600 ml: daily use (1–2 people)

  • 800–1000 ml: family / guests

Materials

  • Glass + frame: beautiful and classic

  • Stainless steel: more durable (good for heavy use)

Filter

Search:

  • Disassembleable filter (mesh + support)

  • Tight seal (less sediment in the cup)

  • smooth-gliding piston

4) Step by step (very practical)

  1. Heat the press with hot water and discard it.

  2. Add the coarsely ground coffee.

  3. Hot water mix (~93°C)

  4. Wait 1 minute and stir gently to break up the "crust".

  5. Cover without pressing and let it sit for another ~3 minutes.

  6. Press gently and serve immediately (or transfer to another container).

5) Cleanliness: what separates "good coffee" from "bitter coffee"

Residues of oil and sludge oxidize and leave a bitter taste. The general recommendation is to clean thoroughly after each use, including disassembling and washing the filter.

Cleaning checklist:

  • Rinse immediately after serving.

  • Disassemble the mesh once a day (daily use).

  • Dry thoroughly (prevents odors)

6) Can you make tea in a French press?

Yes, especially infusions and teas made from larger leaves. But:

  • If you alternate between tea and coffee, there may be a "memory" of aromas.

  • For delicate teas, a teapot with a removable infuser is usually easier to control.

FAQ

What's the ideal grind? Coarse, and adjust to taste.
How long? It starts at ~4 minutes and adjusts.
What temperature? ~93°C (let the water rest a little after boiling).