Most of us make coffee or tea every day, often on autopilot. Slowing the process down a little, with a few well made tools, is one of the easiest ways to make an ordinary morning feel considered. You do not need much.
Brewing coffee by hand
Pour over brewing is simple: hot water poured slowly over ground coffee in a filter. It takes about three or four minutes and gives you control over the strength.
- Rinse the paper filter with hot water and discard the water.
- Add medium fine ground coffee.
- Pour a little water to let the grounds bloom for about 30 seconds.
- Pour the rest slowly in a steady spiral and let it drain.
The Ceramic Pour Over Coffee Set includes a handmade dripper that sits directly on its matching mug, plus filters, so the whole process happens in one place. Both pieces are dishwasher safe.
Brewing loose leaf tea
Loose leaf tea has more room to unfurl than tea in a bag, which usually means more flavor. A teapot with a built in infuser makes it as easy as a tea bag.
- The Zen Elegance Black Ceramic Teapot holds the leaves inside the pot as they steep, and the ceramic walls help keep the tea warm at the table.
- The Charm Round Knob Glass Teapot is heat resistant borosilicate glass, so you can watch the leaves open and lift the infuser out when the tea reaches the strength you like.
As a general guide, green tea prefers water that is hot but not boiling, while black and herbal teas can take water just off the boil. Check the instructions for your tea.
Choosing the right cup
Cup size matters more than most people think. A drink served in a cup that fits it tastes and feels better.
- Espresso and short pours: the Handmade Speckled Ceramic Mini Cup Set holds 1.35 fluid ounces per cup and stacks neatly. The Matte Stainless Steel Double Wall Mug Set includes five 3.38 ounce cups on a matching stand.
- Lattes and cappuccinos: the Minimal Double Wall Insulated Glasses hold 6.7 fluid ounces in heat resistant borosilicate glass, and the double wall keeps the outside comfortable to hold.
- A full morning cup: the Earthy Ceramic Coffee Mug has a low, wide shape to wrap both hands around. The Ceramic Mug with Wooden Lid keeps a drink warm while it settles, and the lid doubles as a coaster.
- Green tea and oolong: the Japanese Style Ceramic Tea Cups are simple and handleless, sold singly or as a set of four.
Warming milk
For hot chocolate, a latte without a machine or chai, a small pot on the stove works well. The Modern Ceramic Milk Pot holds 23.6 ounces and has a pouring lip.
Storing beans and leaves
Coffee and tea keep best away from air, light, heat and moisture. An airtight container on the counter is enough for what you will use within a few weeks.
- The Ceramic Storage Canister with Wooden Lid is opaque, which helps keep light out.
- The Airtight Glass Canisters seal with a silicone gasket and let you see when it is time to restock. Keep them out of direct sun.
Taking it with you
The Double Walled Travel Tumbler keeps coffee hot and water cold, and stays comfortable to hold without a sleeve.
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Common questions
What do I need to make pour over coffee at home?
A dripper, paper filters, ground coffee, a mug and hot water. A pour over set that includes a matching dripper and mug covers everything except the coffee.
What size cup is best for espresso?
A small cup of about 2 to 3 ounces keeps an espresso warm and in proportion. Larger cups suit lattes and cappuccinos.
How should I store coffee beans?
In an airtight container, away from light, heat and moisture, and ideally used within a few weeks of opening.
