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Ingredients
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Cold Brew Concentrate
To Serve (for a 16 oz drink)
Equipment
Method
Cold Brew Concentrate
Combine
Add 1 cup coarsely ground coffee to a clean 1-quart (or larger) jar or pitcher. Pour 4 cups cold filtered water over the grounds, making sure all grounds are saturated. Stir gently to ensure even wetting.
Steep
Cover the jar or pitcher with a lid (or plastic wrap) and let steep at room temperature or in the refrigerator for 16 to 20 hours. Room temperature yields slightly faster extraction; refrigerator yields a cleaner, less acidic flavor.
Strain
After steeping, place a fine mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth (or a coffee filter) over a clean container. Pour the coffee-wter mixture through the sieve slowly. If using cheesecloth, pour in batches and squeeze gently to extract. If using a paper filter, allow it to drip—do not press—until filtration is complete.
Second Filter (optional)
For a clearer concentrate, filter the liquid a second time through a fresh paper filter or a very fine sieve to remove remaining fines.
Store
Transfer the cold brew concentrate to a sealed container and refrigerate. Concentrate will keep for up to 10 days; best within 5–7 days.
To Serve (16 oz)
Fill a 16 oz glass with 1 cup (about 8 fl oz) of ice.
Pour 8 fl oz cold brew concentrate over the ice.
If you want sweetened cold brew, stir in 1 tablespoon simple syrup (or sweetener of choice) until dissolved. Taste and adjust sweetness.
Serve immediately. Garnish with a slice of citrus or a splash of cream if desired.
Equipment Care
Rinse sieves, cheesecloth, and filters immediately after use to remove coffee oils. Wash jars and lids with warm soapy water and air dry before storing.