RestaurantsNorthern CafeCoffee Recipe

Coffee Recipe

Inspired by Northern Cafe
Time12m
Serves2

Make Coffee Recipe in just 12m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Coffee Base

Optional Additions

Method

Preparation

1

Measure and heat water

Measure 480 ml filtered water. Heat water to the appropriate temperature: 92–96°C (just off boil) for drip or French press, or as required by your espresso machine.

2

Grind beans

Weigh 36 g whole beans. Grind to the correct grind size for your chosen brew method: coarse for French press, medium for drip, fine for espresso. Grind immediately before brewing for best freshness.

Brewing (French press example)

3

Add grounds to carafe

Add the 36 g of medium-coarse grounds to a clean French press.

4

Bloom

Pour just enough hot water (about 60–80 ml) over the grounds to saturate them and let bloom for 30–45 seconds. This allows trapped gases to escape and improves extraction.

5

Pour remaining water

Slowly pour the remaining hot water up to the 480 ml mark, stirring gently with a spoon or paddle to ensure even saturation.

6

Steep

Place the lid on the French press with the plunger pulled up. Let the coffee steep 3 minutes 30 seconds to 4 minutes total depending on desired strength.

7

Plunge and serve

Slowly press the plunger down with steady pressure. Immediately decant the brewed coffee into a cup or thermal carafe to avoid over-extraction.

Alternative Brewing Notes

8

Drip method

Use 36 g medium grounds in a paper or permanent filter. Pour 480 ml water heated to 92–96°C over the grounds in a steady stream or use an automatic drip brewer. Brew time should be 3–4 minutes. Serve immediately.

9

Espresso method

Use 18–20 g finely ground coffee and pull a double espresso (about 36–40 ml) with your espresso machine. Use the remaining water only as needed for Americano (add hot water to taste, e.g., 120 ml for a longer drink).

Finishing

10

Add milk or sugar (optional)

If desired, warm 120 ml milk and add to the brewed coffee, or add 2 tsp sugar, or 2 tbsp cream. Stir to combine. For a spiced option, sprinkle 1 tsp cinnamon on top or stir into the milk before adding.

11

Taste and adjust: if too strong, add hot water (120 ml) to make an Americano-style drink; if too weak, use a finer grind or more coffee next time. Serve immediately.

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