Winter is most certainly here in New England. Temperatures are frigid, snow is always a possibility and wearing as many layers as possible is the only option. However, any true New Englander will tell you that they will take their coffee on ice despite what mother nature might be serving up. I am no exception and my favorite way to make iced coffee is by cold brewing it.
I've only recently discovered how easy to make and delicious cold brewed coffee is. All you need is a french press, ground coffee, water and time. Unlike traditional brewing, this process requires cold water. This allows the coffee to brew without burning the grounds which is what sometimes gives coffee that bitter, acidic taste. Cold brewed coffee is much smoother and I've found I don't even need any sweetener or creamer! This has been a lifesaver while eating paleo which I'll delve more deeply into at a later time.
Cold-brewed Coffee
Take 1/4 cup of ground coffee and place into empty french press. Fill french press with cold, filtered water and allow to sit for at least 8 hours. Serve once time has elapsed or refrigerate for a later date.
I prefer to use a darker roasted coffee for cold brewing. I've found that Starbucks Caffe Verona works wonderfully. Starbucks is great for getting grounds for a french press as they will grind it more roughly which is suited for this process.
Enjoy!
cristen.
