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When it comes to coffee brewing methods, there are many different options to choose from. But which one is the best?
In this article, we will compare the moka pot vs french press. We will discuss what each method is, how to use them, and the differences between them.
By the end of this article, you will be able to decide for yourself which brewing method is best for you! Let’s get started!
What is a Moka Pot?
A Moka pot is a type of coffee maker that was invented in Italy in 1933. It is a small, stovetop pot with a unique design that allows it to brew rich, full-flavored espresso type coffee using pressure and steam.
Bialetti, a legend in the moka pot industry since the 1930s, has remained a market leader to this day.
It consists of three parts: a base where the water is heated, a filter basket where the ground coffee is placed, and a top chamber where the brewed coffee collects.
A Moka pot is ideal for individuals who want a cup of coffee similar to espresso in the morning but don’t want to deal with a complicated espresso machine.
How to use a Moka Pot
To use a Moka pot, you first need to fill the base with water and then heat it on the stove.
Next, you want to grind your coffee beans.
The grind size you want is a medium fine, which is not as fine as espresso, but finer than drip coffee. Then add the freshly ground coffee to the filter basket and screw on the top chamber.
As the water in the base boils, it creates steam pressure that forces the hot water up through the coffee and into the top chamber, via the “chimney.”
Keep an eye on the chamber as it fills. When the chimney begins to spit and sputter, it means you’re running out of water and the coffee is done.
When the brewing is complete, you simply remove the pot from the heat and enjoy your delicious cup of coffee.
Moka pots are an excellent way to make authentic Italian coffee at home, and they make a great addition to any kitchen.
What is a French Press?
The French are no strangers to the world of coffee, and the French press may be considered the heart of French coffee culture. The origins of this popular brewing technique, however, are up for debate.
James Hoffman states in his book, “The World Atlas of Coffee,” that the first documented origins of the French Press date back to 1852.
However, the first official patents registered came in 1928, and it was by two Italians, Attilio Calimani and Giulio Moneta.
We know that presses were in use before then, but whether they were French or Italian, is still a topic of debate among coffee historians.
A French press is ideal for people with little or no coffee-making experience who desire a robust brew with plenty of flavor. It’s a very easy brewing process, so it’s suitable for anybody looking to learn a straightforward recipe and get great coffee every day.
How to Use a French Press
The French Press, also known as a press pot or coffee plunger, is a coffee brewing device that consists of a carafe, a filter, and a plunger.
To use a French press, you first need to heat your water to just below boiling. Then add the appropriate amount of fresh coarsely ground coffee to the carafe and pour the hot water over it.
Then, you let the coffee steep for several minutes before pressing the plunger down to filter out the grounds. The result is a rich, full-flavored cup of coffee.
French presses are often used by coffee aficionados who appreciate the unique flavor profile that they produce. However, anyone can use a French press to make a delicious cup of coffee.
So, if you’re looking for an easy and affordable way to brew great-tasting coffee at home, give a French press a try.
Moka Pot vs French Press: What are the Differences?
Now that we know what moka pots and French presses are and how to use them, let’s compare the two brewing methods.
Coffee Grind Size:
For a moka pot, you want to use a medium fine grind size. For a French press, you want to use a coarse grind size.
Ease of Use and Cleaning:
French presses are relatively easy to use. Moka pots are also easy to use once you get the hang of them, but they can be a little trickier to master.
Because all components of a French press can be readily accessed, cleaned, and machine washed, they are more simple to clean. A Moka pot has elements that are difficult to clean with a sponge and others, such as the spout, that are not accessible. These smaller portions on the Moka pot make cleaning them more difficult.
Brewing Time:
A Moka pot uses pressure, whereas a French press relies on steeping. Regardless of the method you choose, your coffee should be ready in about five minutes. A Moka pot, however, might take a little longer to achieve perfection.
Brew Volume:
One significant distinction between these two brewing methods is the amount of coffee produced. A French press can brew a large volume of coffee, making it ideal for entertaining guests. A Moka pot, on the other hand, is best for brewing small batches of coffee.
Coffee Quality and Taste:
These two brewing methods produce two different types of coffee. Moka pots produce coffee with a richer flavor due to the pressure brewing method, while French presses produce coffee with more of the natural oils from the beans intact giving it more of an earthy taste.
Materials:
With the French press you’ll see lots of glass and plastic versions, as well as stainless steel, but it’s all metal with moka pots. They’re generally made of aluminum or stainless steel.
Price:
Moka pots are going to be less expensive than French presses, with some models costing as little as $15. French presses can range in price from $20 to $100.
Moka Pot vs French Press: The Verdict
Moka pot vs french press, which one is better? Well, that’s up to you.
The method that works best for you is the one that meets your needs the most! Different people have varying tastes and coffee demands, so you’ll need to pick the method that fits your daily routine and lifestyle.
Both methods have their pros and cons, so it really comes down to personal preference.
Do you like your coffee robust, rich, and flavorful? Then you will want to go with a Moka Pot. Or do you like your coffee earthy, natural-tasting, and more complex? The French press should be your choice.
Whichever way you prefer your coffee, there’s a brewing method out there for you. So, get out there and experiment until you find the perfect cup of coffee for you.
We hope you enjoyed this article and that it has helped you decide which brewing method is right for you.
Do you have a favorite coffee brewing method? Let us know in the comments below. Thanks for reading!
Happy brewing! Happy sipping!
P.S. Be sure to check out our other coffee-related articles for more tips and tricks on making the perfect cup of joe and to learn “All About That Coffee!”