Why Pour Over Coffee Remains Popular Despite the Aeropress
The debate over which brewing method yields the best cup of coffee often brings out passionate opinions. While the Aeropress has gained significant popularity, many coffee enthusiasts still swear by the antiquated brew method: the pour over. This article explores why the pour over method endures, despite the streamlined and efficient Aeropress.When discussing coffee brewing methods, the Aeropress and pour over often clash. Yet, the prominence of the Aeropress does not overshadow the unique pleasures offered by pour over. The pour over method is often favored for its speed, ease of cleanup, and versatility, making it a top choice for many coffee drinkers.
The Speed and Simplicity of Pour Over
One of the key perks of the pour over method is its speed. Making pour over coffee is a straightforward process that delivers a quick yet satisfying result. Paper filters can be easily disposed of along with the grounds, ensuring a clean and hygienic preparation. Moreover, the absence of additional work in the form of prepping filters, designing filters, and unnecessary cleaning (as required with the Aeropress) makes it an appealing choice for those in a hurry.
Work and Cleanliness - Aeropress vs. Pour Over
In contrast, the Aeropress requires more time and effort. Preparing an Aeropress involves fitting a round filter into a precise location and manually adding coffee grounds and water before plunging. While this method does produce a near-perfect cup of coffee, it is less straightforward and requires more setup. Additionally, the grounds are typically compacted between the filter and the plunger, making cleanup slightly more involved.
Variety and Discovering Your Perfect Bean
For many coffee aficionados, the allure of variety is a significant factor in sticking with the pour over method. Each coffee and its roast has unique properties that are enhanced or lost depending on the brewing method used. While some may argue that certain beans are better suited for specific brewing methods, the key takeaway is that the best method is highly subjective and varies for each individual taste preference. The pour over method allows for this flexibility, making it a versatile choice for different beans and roasts.
Rashid Zaman, a coffee expert, emphasizes that variance in roasting methods and beans is significant. Darker roasts generally perform better in espresso and French press settings, but this is just one person's opinion. The belief that a bean's properties are best showcased by a particular method is a personal choice. In the end, the pour over method provides a balance of versatility and ease, making it a popular choice for those who want to explore and taste various coffees without the complexity of different brewing methods.
Practicality for Coffee Drinkers
When it comes to practicality, the pour over method stands out. For those who drink coffee as part of their daily routine, the continuous process of making multiple cups (as is common for larger households or coffee-drinking businesses) is made easier by the pour over method. Taking time to manually prepare an Aeropress for each cup is impractical, especially when using larger batches. The pour over method allows for a steady flow of coffee, maintaining the workflow and rhythm of daily activities.
Wesley Bannister and his partner, Debra, use a Cuisinart DCC-3200 coffee maker, which can brew nearly two 14-cup pots at once. Drinking from an Aeropress would require an impractical amount of time and effort, disrupting their work and writing routines. The pour over method, on the other hand, provides a seamless and consistent coffee-making experience, fitting into the fabric of their lives without intrusion.
In conclusion, while the Aeropress is a fantastic product for those seeking a quick and clean coffee solution, the pour over method retains its popularity due to its speed, ease of use, and versatility. For coffee enthusiasts who savor the process and enjoy exploring different beans and roasts, the pour over method remains a cherished part of their daily routine.