How to Make the Best Cup of Coffee Every Time

I was tired of drinking crappy weak coffee, and I didn't like spending a fortune every day just to get a decent cup of coffee. I like my coffee fresh and strong, but nothing I had would make it strong enough.

I went through a variety of devices - Keurig, drip coffee maker, percolator - before I finally came across a french press and I haven't turned back!

It makes the best cup of coffee every time, doesn't require a lot of work and doesn't cost a fortune. In this Instructable, I will show you how I make my coffee every morning before I head out for the day.

To get started you need:

• A French Press - most homegoods stores sell these. You can get a decent one for around $20
• Coffee - Good coffee is key. Splurge on a good brand, you deserve it! I choose dark roasts. I also buy whole bean coffee and grind it daily, but that is optional
• Coffee Scooper or Tablespoon - I have a coffee scooper which is equivalent to 2 tablespoons.You can pick those up in homegoods stores as well for a few bucks, but a tablespoon is all that you really need.
• Coffee Grinder (optional)
• Kettle - I like to use an electric kettle then I do not have to pay attention to a kettle on the stove. I can turn it on and continue getting ready for the day. You could also just use a pot to boil your water.
• Timer - Maybe you're better at paying attention, but I get side tracked easily. I use my microwave timer since it is right above my coffee station.

I first turn on my electric kettle as it takes the most time. Of course, you can use anything that boils water; it doesn't have to be an electric kettle. I just like the leave-it-and-forget-it aspect of an electric kettle. I make sure I boil at least 6-cups of water since my french press makes 6-cups of coffee.

You can use already ground coffee, but I like to grind my coffee every morning because I think it makes it more flavorful. Plus, it literally takes seconds. You can get a basic coffee grinder for around $20.

When measuring your coffee the rule of thumb is 1 tablespoon of ground coffee per cup of water. I use a 6-cup french press, so I grind 6 tablespoons (or 3 coffee-scooper scoops) of coffee.

Add the coffee to the french press and wait for the water to come to a boil.

When the water has come to a boil. pour the hot water over the coffee in the french press making sure you have covered all the grounds. DO NOT PRESS DOWN YET.

Set your timer for 4 minutes and wait. If you like your coffee more or less strong, you can adjust the time. When the 4 minutes have passed, press down on the press. Now your coffee is ready to serve!

Now you get to enjoy the best cup of coffee that only took you minutes to prepare. I often drink my coffee black because even though it is strong, it is also smooth and not bitter (another reason to buy great coffee).