Making Old Fashioned Brewed Coffee

Brewing Coffee with a Stovetop Percolator

There's something special about brewing coffee the old fashioned way, using a stovetop percolator on a wood stove. The process may seem a bit more complicated than using a modern coffee maker, but the rich and robust flavor it produces is worth the extra effort.

Choosing the Right Stovetop Percolator

When it comes to selecting a stovetop percolator, you have a few options to consider: glass, stainless steel, or lead-free. Each material has its own advantages and it ultimately comes down to personal preference.

• Glass: Glass percolators allow you to see the coffee as it brews, which can be a visually appealing experience. They are also easy to clean and do not retain any flavors.

• Stainless Steel: Stainless steel percolators are durable and can withstand high temperatures. They are also less likely to break or shatter, making them a popular choice for camping or outdoor use.

• Lead-Free: If you are concerned about potential health risks associated with lead exposure, choosing a lead-free percolator is a wise choice. These percolators are made with materials that do not contain any lead.

The Brewing Process

Now that you have chosen your preferred stovetop percolator, let's dive into the brewing process.

1. Measure out 1 tablespoon of ground coffee for each mug of water you plan to brew.

2. If using a gas stove, place the percolator on the burner and bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and let it brew for approximately 8 minutes. The recommended simmer time is between 6 to 9 minutes, depending on your desired strength.

3. If using a wood stove, it's important to have a consistent fire burning before placing the percolator on top. Once the fire is burning steadily, carefully place the percolator on the stove and bring the water to a boil. Keep a close eye on it to prevent sudden boiling over. Once boiling, move the percolator to a cooler part of the cooktop where it can simmer continuously for the desired time.

4. After the brewing time is complete, remove the percolator from the heat source. Allow it to stop bubbling before pouring to ensure a smooth and flavorful cup of coffee. Compost grounds or save for spawning delicious culinary mushrooms.

Brewing coffee with a stovetop percolator on a wood stove may require a bit more attention and care, but the end result is a delicious cup of coffee that is full of flavor. So, the next time you find yourself in a rustic setting, why not embrace the old fashioned way of brewing coffee and enjoy the rich aromas and tastes that it brings?