You've got to love this form of coffee brewing. The actual brewing is near on as enjoyable as the end result itself. And as such I thought it worth posting some photos of the process. Plus it was an excuse for me to try out the new Kenyan Muchoki Peaberry that had just arrived from the wonderful and new 'Square Mile Coffee Roasters'.
Since, as stated above, the idea was to 'show' the process of vac pot brewing, I'll leave the photos do most of the talking.
As you can see I'm using a Cona Vac Pot 'B' which I feel is just the right size for 1 or 2 people. I've heard also that they perform better than the larger sized pots too.
The great bit is watching the water slowly reach the perfect temperature to then make it's journey upwards past the glass filter rod and into the waiting coffee grounds in the funnel above.
I usually allow to steep for around 3 - 4 minutes, depending on the coffee used. I also give it it all a good stir with a plastic chopstick being careful not to disturb the glass filter rod. Sounds strange but it's the perfect tool for the job. I also use one for stirring the coffee in a french press too.
Once steeping time is up, pop the glass snuffer over the lighter and watch the coffee make it's way back down to the glass bowl below. Some water is always left in the bottom while steeping takes place. You'd think this would water down the coffee, but it seems the mix creates the perfect balance.
The final drops of coffee on the way down creates a bubbling dance and signals the end of the process. Carefully twist off the funnel breaking the seal between the two glass pieces and place in the hole provided in the stand.
Clear up is the only pain in the whole process but forget that for the time being. Enjoy the coffee and forget about your troubles :) You wont find a cleaner cup anywhere else. No muddyness to be found at the bottom of your cup here!
Oh and by the way the Muchoki Peaberry was fantastic. Packed with fruit and a surprisingly big body. Highly recommended!
