I’ve always been a coffee lover, but I never knew the true potential of my Chemex until I learned about Chemex ratio brewing. This method of coffee brewing is all about precision and consistency, allowing you to achieve the perfect cup of coffee every time.
So, what is the Chemex ratio brewing with a Chemex? Simply put, it uses a specific proportion of coffee to water when brewing with a Chemex. This ratio ensures the coffee is neither weak nor strong but just right. The Chemex ratio brewing method also involves carefully controlling the temperature of the water and the speed at which it’s poured, resulting in a smooth and flavorful cup of coffee.
If you’re a coffee enthusiast like me, you know that the brewing process can make all the difference in the taste and quality of your coffee. With Chemex ratio brewing, you can take your coffee game to the next level and impress even the most discerning coffee drinkers. So grab your Chemex and some high-quality coffee beans, and get ready to brew the perfect cup of coffee every time!
Understanding Chemex Ratio Brewing

What is Chemex Ratio Brewing?
Chemex Ratio Brewing is a method of brewing coffee using the Chemex coffee maker that involves measuring the ratio of coffee to water used in the brewing process. This method is based on the idea that the perfect coffee cup requires a precise coffee-to-water balance. The Chemex Ratio Brewing method ensures you always get the perfect cup of coffee.
Why is Chemex Ratio Brewing Important?
Chemex Ratio Brewing is vital because it allows you to create a consistent and delicious cup of coffee every time. Using the correct ratio of coffee to water ensures that the coffee is strong enough and firm enough. This method also allows you to experiment with different ratios to find the perfect cup of coffee for your taste buds.
The Science Behind Chemex Ratio Brewing
The science behind Chemex Ratio Brewing is simple. The ideal ratio of coffee to water is between 1:15 and 1:17. This means that for every gram of coffee, you should use between 15 and 17 grams of water. Using this ratio, you can extract the perfect flavor from the coffee beans without over-extracting or under-extracting.
When you use too little coffee, the coffee will taste weak and watery. When you use too much coffee, the coffee will taste bitter and overpowering. By using the correct ratio, you can ensure that the coffee tastes balanced and delicious.
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The Chemex Ratio Brewing with a Chemex Process

Step 1: Choosing the Right Coffee Beans
When brewing coffee with a Chemex, the first step is choosing the right coffee beans. I prefer medium roast beans for a well-balanced flavor, but you can use any roast. It’s important to use freshly roasted beans for the best flavor, so check the roast date before purchasing.
Step 2: Preparing the Chemex
Before starting the brewing process, you’ll need to prepare your Chemex. Begin by placing a Chemex filter on the top of the brewer and rinsing it with hot water. This will remove any paper taste from the filter and preheat the Chemex. Discard the rinse water before moving on to the next step.
Step 3: Measuring the Coffee and Water
Measuring the coffee and water is an essential step in the Chemex brewing process. I recommend using a 1:15 coffee-to-water ratio for a balanced cup of coffee. For example, if you’re using 30 grams of coffee, you’ll want to use 450 grams of water. You can adjust the ratio to your preference, but remember that using too much coffee or too little water can result in a bitter cup of coffee.
Step 4: Brewing the Coffee
Once you’ve measured your coffee and water, it’s time to start brewing. Begin by pouring a small amount of hot water over the coffee grounds to bloom them. Allow the coffee to bloom for 30 seconds before running the remaining water over the grounds. Start pouring in the center of the coffee bed and work your way outwards in a circular motion. Once you’ve poured all the water, let the coffee drip through the filter into the Chemex. This process should take 3-4 minutes.
Step 5: Enjoying Your Chemex Coffee
Now that your Chemex coffee is ready, it’s time to enjoy it! Pour the coffee into your favorite mug and savor the flavors. I like to drink my Chemex coffee black, but you can add milk or sweetener to taste.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Chemex Ratio Brewing

Tip 1: Experiment with Coffee to Water Ratio
I always experiment with different coffee-to-water ratios to find the perfect balance. Generally, the recommended ratio is 1:15, which means you need 15 grams of water for every gram of coffee. However, you can adjust this ratio based on your taste preferences. If you want a stronger coffee, you can increase the amount of coffee or decrease the amount of water. Similarly, if you wish to milder coffee, you can reduce the amount of coffee or increase the amount of water.
Tip 2: Use Freshly Roasted Coffee Beans
Using freshly roasted coffee beans is essential for a perfect Chemex brew. Freshly roasted coffee beans have a rich aroma and flavor that enhances the taste of your coffee. Make sure to buy coffee beans from a reputable roaster and check the roast date before buying. Ideally, coffee beans should be consumed within two weeks of the roast date.
Tip 3: Preheat Your Chemex and Filter
Preheating your Chemex and filter is crucial to maintain the temperature of your coffee. Preheating ensures that your coffee doesn’t cool down quickly and that you get a consistent flavor. To preheat your Chemex, pour hot water into it and let it sit for a few minutes. Similarly, rinse your filter with hot water to remove any paper taste and preheat it.
Tip 4: Pour Slowly and Steadily
Pouring slowly and steadily is essential for a perfect Chemex brew. Pouring too quickly can result in over-extraction, and running too slowly can result in under-extraction. Start pouring in a circular motion, wetting all the coffee grounds. Once the coffee starts to bloom, slow down your pour and keep flowing until you reach the desired amount.
Tip 5: Clean Your Chemex Regularly
Cleaning your Chemex regularly is essential to maintain its quality and flavor. After each use, rinse your Chemex with hot water and use a soft brush to clean any residual coffee oils. You can also use a mixture of water and vinegar to clean your Chemex thoroughly. Make sure to rinse your Chemex thoroughly with hot water after cleaning.
Conclusion
After trying different ratios and methods for brewing with Chemex, I found that the 1:16 balance works best for me. This ratio allows for a well-balanced cup with a smooth and clean taste. However, I encourage you to experiment with different proportions and find the best for your taste buds.
Remember to use fresh, high-quality beans and grind them before brewing for the best results. The Chemex brewing method is a great way to enjoy specialty coffee’s unique flavors and aromas.
Overall, Chemex ratio brewing with a Chemex is a rewarding experience that allows you to appreciate the art and science of coffee brewing. You can achieve a perfect cup every time with practice and experimentation.