Coffee, in many ways, can serve as a microcosm of this larger issue. It’s not just about the beverage itself, but the process, the ritual, and the mindfulness that can come with it.
Taking the time to grind, measure, and brew a cup of coffee can indeed be a small act of mindfulness in a world that often encourages rushing from one task to the next. It’s a moment to pause, to engage with the present, and to savor the details.
Moreover, when we rush through life, we often miss out on the opportunities for gratitude and reflection. Coffee, prepared with care and attention, can serve as a reminder to appreciate the simple pleasures in life and to express gratitude for the resources and efforts that went into making it.
In a broader sense, this perspective can be applied to many aspects of our lives. Slowing down, paying attention to details, and cultivating gratitude can lead to a deeper sense of fulfilment and connectedness. It’s a reminder that sometimes, in our pursuit of efficiency, we might be missing out on the richness of the present moment.
So, in a way, making coffee at home can be seen as a small rebellion against the frenetic pace of modern life, a declaration that some things are worth the time and attention they deserve. It’s an invitation to live more deliberately and with a greater sense of appreciation for the small, meaningful moments that make up our lives.
In a world where haste often dominates, embracing the slow coffee philosophy offers a refreshing opportunity to savor life’s simple pleasures. This guide is tailored for those ready to embark on this mindful journey. Let’s begin by ensuring you have all the essentials.
Getting Your Essentials - A Checklist
Quality water is the cornerstone of a great cup of coffee. Determining its quality might seem complex, but we’ll simplify it for you. A PPM (particles per million) reader is a valuable tool. We recommend a range of 75 to 250 PPM. Below 75, the lack of minerals may lead to a flat taste, while above 250 PPM, an excess of solids could affect coffee quality. Test a sample of your brewing water to find the right balance.
For consistent quality, especially in urban areas, opting for reliable mineral water is an easy solution. Advanced brewers may even adjust water mineral content, or invest in RO systems to customize dissolved solids to their liking. If you have access to fresh mountain spring water, a simple filtration will allow you to brew exceptional coffee.
Once your water is in order, the next step is obtaining a quality grinder. For purists, manual grinders are an excellent choice. Look for models with stainless steel or similarly robust materials instead of ceramic burrs, as they provide durability and precision. Personally, I find manual grinders to be the best choice, as they contribute to the slow, deliberate process.
Precision in water heating is crucial. An electric kettle with temperature settings is recommended. Different coffees thrive at specific temperatures: dark roasts excel at 85-90 degrees, medium roasts at 90-95, and light roasts at 95-98. Avoid boiling water, as it can alter the chemical composition and potentially scorch the coffee, destroying delicate volatile compounds (VOC’s). A gooseneck spout provides full control over pouring, ensuring accuracy.
Precision and repeatability are essential for brewing great coffee. A high-quality scale equipped with a timer allows you to monitor brewing time and measure the grams of coffee and water needed to perfect your recipes. While a more advanced scale is beneficial, a simple kitchen scale, paired with a mobile timer, is a good starting point.
The beauty of coffee lies in its versatility. Do you prefer your brew short and intense, or long and mild? With milk or black? Your preference guides your choice of brewing method. Consider popular manual methods like AeroPress, Moka Pot, South Indian Filter, French Press, or V60, each imparting a unique flavor profile to your brew.
Time for Freshly Roasted Beans
Recommendations for Your Coffee Journey
For Breakfast: Consider the Malabar Blues Blend, Skia Blend, or Sandalkad, along with Kavery.
Post-Breakfast: Explore Balmaadi, Pranoy’s Pride, and Neri Malai.
Afternoon to Evening: Indulge in the Salawara Reserve, Genesis Blend, and Malabar Monsooned.
For Espresso: Elevate your experience with Kaveri.
Stay tuned, and may the spirit of coffee be with you,
Marc Tormo.