Preparation

There are numerous ways of preparing coffee; each one has their pros and cons.  Regardless which way you make, filter-drip method, French press/plunger pot or a home espresso machine….here are some basic things they all have in common;

• Use fresh roasted coffee; the fresher the better, if you are using coffee from that trip you made to Hawaii the winter before last…..forget about it!...keep the memories, throw out the coffee….it’s history.
• Storage: We suggest you keep your coffee in whole bean in a ceramic or glass jar with a rubber seal.  Make sure you keep coffee out of direct sunlight.
• Grind coffee just before actual preparation; also grind only the amount you intend to use for each batch.
• Correct grind; each type of preparation has its own grind; in a nutshell; espresso should be finely ground (not pulverized), filter-drip should be fine-medium and a plunger pot should be coarsely ground.  If you are having your coffee ground, be it at our store or at the supermarket, be sure to check to see the specific grind setting so you will get the same grind each time.
• Correct amount; often an area of great confusion….the Specialty Coffee Association of America (SCAA) recommends using 2 level tablespoons per 6 oz cup.  What Café del Mundo suggests is that you take the extra time to experience what a cup of coffee taste like that is made at the recommended ratio.  Like you might do with a fine wine, swish it around your mouth, think about it, and enjoy.  If you still think it is too strong, ok, try using a little less.  When you find the exact amount that you like, take note of how much you are using and be consistent….it’s not rocket science!
• Good water; this is often overlooked, if you are using funky tasting water, you will not be able to achieve a good cup of coffee, regardless how much cream and sugar you add.  Personally, I like the taste of Anchorage water, if you are using well water or you live outside of Anchorage and have issues with your water….get a water filtration system.  You can do this fairly inexpensively with a Brita system or go all out and get an in-line water filter.  For those that want nothing but the best, talk with folks at Alaska Pure Water Products at International Airport Road and Cordova, here in Anchorage…..or go our “links” page.