Master the Art of Coffee Brewing: Step-by-Step Guide to the AeroPress Inverted Method

If you're a coffee lover, chances are you've heard about the AeroPress - the must-have tool for making a yummy and velvety cup of coffee in a snap. But, did you know that there are various ways of using AeroPress? One of these methods, known as the Inverted Method, is gaining popularity amongst coffee enthusiasts.

The Inverted Method involves flipping the AeroPress upside down and steeping the coffee grounds in hot water before pressing them through a filter. This technique is said to produce a richer and more complex cup of coffee compared to the traditional method, which involves placing the AeroPress right-side up and pushing the water through the coffee grounds.

In this article, we're gonna walk you through the whole process of using the AeroPress Inverted Method to make some damn good coffee right in your own kitchen.

Traditional Method vs Inverted Method

The traditional method of using the AeroPress involves placing the device right-side up and adding the coffee grounds and water into the chamber. You then stir the mixture and push it through the filter using the plunger. This method produces a clean and bright cup of coffee, but some coffee lovers find it can lack depth and complexity.

On the flip side, there's the Inverted Method, where you turn the AeroPress upside down and let the coffee steep in hot water before plunging. This technique lets the coffee steep for longer, resulting in a more robust and intricate cup of coffee. Plus, the Inverted Method gives you more freedom to tweak the brewing process by adjusting the steep time and water temperature.

While both methods have their merits, many coffee enthusiasts prefer the Inverted Method for its ability to produce a more full-bodied and nuanced cup of coffee. 

An alternative to the Inverted Method is to use the Fellow Prismo or AeroPress's new flow control filter cap. Both of these accessories allow you to control the flow rate of the coffee as it passes through the filter, which can lead to a more consistent and flavorful cup of coffee.

Compared to the Inverted Method, the Fellow Prismo and flow control filter cap offer more control over the brewing process without the need to invert the AeroPress. This can be a more convenient option for those who prefer a simpler brewing process.

Fellow Prismo attachment for Aeropress	Aeropress flow control filter cap

 

Materials and Equipment

To make coffee using the AeroPress Inverted Method, you'll need the following materials and equipment:

• AeroPress
• AeroPress filter (paper or metal)
• Coffee grinder
• Fresh coffee beans
• Hot water
• Timer
• Coffee scale (optional)
• Stirring spoon
• Coffee mug

 

Paper Aeropess filters	Hexnub Organizer for Aeropress	Metal Aeropress filter

 

Preparation

Before you start brewing your coffee using the AeroPress Inverted Method, you need to make sure you have all your equipment and materials ready. Here's a quick guide to help you out:

Clean your AeroPress thoroughly: Make sure your AeroPress is clean and dry before using it. You can rinse it with hot water to remove any residue from previous brews.

Boil water: The ideal temperature is between 195-205°F (90-96°C). You can use a kettle or even a microwave to heat the water.

Wet the AeroPress filter: Place a paper filter in the filter cap and rinse it with hot water to remove any papery taste. If using a metal filter, skip this step.

Grind coffee beans: Use a coffee grinder to grind fresh coffee beans to a medium-fine consistency. Aim to use 17-20 grams of coffee per 250 ml of water.

Assemble AeroPress: Insert a paper filter into the cap of the AeroPress and twist it onto the brewing chamber. Place the chamber upside down on a stable surface.

With the preparation completed, you'll be well on your way to brewing a delicious cup of coffee using the AeroPress Inverted Method.

If you’re looking for accuracy with the pour we recommend a quality gooseneck kettle, here’s our top pics:

Coffee Gator Gooseneck Kettle with Thermometer	Bodum 11883-259US Melior Gooseneck Electric Water Kettle	POLIVIAR Electric Gooseneck Kettle, 1200W Electric Tea Kettle

Brewing

Now that you've prepared your materials and equipment, it's time to start brewing using the AeroPress Inverted Method. Here's how to do it:

1. Add the coffee: Start by adding the coffee grounds into the chamber of the AeroPress, using a coffee scale if you have one. For a standard cup of coffee, use around 15-17 grams of coffee.
   
   
2. Add the water: Carefully pour hot water over the coffee grounds, using a ratio of 1:15 or 1:16 coffee to water. For example, if you used 15 grams of coffee, you'll need around 225-240 grams of water. Use a stirring spoon to agitate the mixture and ensure that all the grounds are evenly saturated.
   
   Use water that's just off the boil, ideally between 195-205°F (90-96°C) for best results. Water that's too hot can result in over-extracted coffee, while water that's too cool can result in under-extracted coffee. Using a thermometer or an electric kettle with temperature control can help ensure that the water is at the optimal temperature.
   
   
3. Steep the coffee: Let the coffee chill and steep for a minute or two by putting the plunger on the chamber. The steeping time can vary based on how you like your coffee. Use the timer to keep track of the steeping time. As a good starting point, you can steep the coffee for around 1.5 to 2 minutes. This should be enough time to extract the flavors and aroma from the coffee grounds without over-extracting them. However, you can adjust the steeping time to your liking and experiment with different steeping times to find the perfect brew that suits your taste preferences.
   
   
4. Attach the cap: Once the coffee has steeped, carefully attach the cap with the wet filter to the AeroPress. Be careful not to spill any of the coffee while doing this.
   
   
5. Flip the AeroPress: Carefully flip the AeroPress over onto your coffee mug. The plunger should be facing upwards.
   
   
6. Press the coffee: Gently press down on the plunger to push the coffee through the filter. The pressing process should take around 20-30 seconds. If the plunger feels too tight or difficult to press, try adjusting the grind size or using slightly less coffee.
   
   
7. Enjoy your coffee: Once you've pressed all the coffee through the filter, remove the AeroPress from your coffee mug and discard the used coffee grounds and filter. You can now enjoy your freshly brewed cup of coffee!

Brewing coffee is like a combination of art and science, and it might take some trial and error before you make the perfect cup. So don't be scared to play around with the coffee-to-water ratio, grind size, and steeping time to find the taste that hits the spot for you. 

 With some experimentation and patience, you'll soon be brewing delicious coffee using the AeroPress Inverted Method.

If you're a fan of cold brew, you won't want to miss out on this article about how to make AeroPress cold brew. Click the link here to learn all the tips and tricks for brewing a delicious cup of cold brew using your AeroPress.

Cleanup and Maintenance

After brewing your coffee using the AeroPress Inverted Method, it's important to clean and maintain your equipment properly to ensure its longevity and continued performance. Here's what you need to know:

Discard the used coffee grounds and filter: Once you've finished brewing, discard the used coffee grounds and paper filter. You can compost the used coffee grounds, or simply discard them in the trash.

Disassemble and clean: After brewing, disassemble your AeroPress and rinse all the parts with hot water. Use a sponge or brush to remove any coffee residue or oils that may have accumulated on the parts.

Dry thoroughly: Once you've cleaned the AeroPress, dry all the parts thoroughly with a clean towel or let them air dry. Be sure to dry the plunger and chamber completely to prevent mold growth.

Store properly: Once the AeroPress is dry, reassemble the parts and store it in a dry and cool place. Avoid storing the AeroPress in direct sunlight or damp environments, as this can cause it to degrade or warp over time.

If you’re looking for a stylish and practical storage solution for your AeroPress, look no further than the Aeropress organizer by Henxub. Our satisfied customers rave about its sleek design and how it keeps their AeroPress safe and dry.

HEXNUB – Bamboo Organizer for AeroPress	HEXNUB – Compact Bamboo Organizer for AeroPress

 

Replace the filter: The AeroPress comes with a set of paper filters, which should be replaced after each use. You can also purchase reusable metal filters, which can be washed and reused for a longer period of time.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Despite your best efforts, you may encounter some issues when brewing coffee using the AeroPress Inverted Method. Here are some common problems and their solutions:

• Coffee is too weak: If your coffee tastes a bit watery, you can solve this by adding more coffee or steeping it for a longer time. Or, you can try using hotter water or a finer grind size to make the coffee stronger.

• Coffee is too strong: If your coffee is too strong or bitter, try using less coffee or a coarser grind size. You can also decrease the steeping time or use cooler water.

• Plunger is difficult to press: If the plunger is difficult to press, try adjusting the grind size or using less coffee. Additionally, make sure that you're pressing down slowly and evenly, and that the filter isn't clogged.

• Water is leaking out of the AeroPress: If water is leaking out of the AeroPress during the brewing process, check that the cap and filter are securely attached. You can also try wetting the rubber seal on the plunger to create a tighter seal.

• Coffee is too acidic: If your coffee tastes too acidic or sour, try decreasing the steeping time or using a coarser grind size. You can also try using slightly cooler water or a darker roast of coffee.

You may need a new plunger for your AeroPress if your current plunger is damaged or no longer functioning properly. Over time, the rubber seal on the plunger can wear down or become misshapen, which can cause leaks or prevent the plunger from creating enough suction to properly brew your coffee. These are really cheap and available to buy at Amazon:

AMI PARTS Plunger Rubber Gasket Replacement Part for AeroPress Coffee and Espresso Maker

 

Final Thoughts

Congratulations on mastering the AeroPress Inverted Method! With this step-by-step guide, you've learned the art of coffee brewing using this versatile tool. The AeroPress is a must-have for coffee enthusiasts of all levels, and mastering the Inverted Method will allow you to brew a delicious and satisfying cup of coffee in the comfort of your own home.

By experimenting with different brewing settings like grind size, coffee-to-water ratio, and steeping time, you can perfect your brew and discover the coffee of your dreams. Taking care of your equipment is also crucial to producing great coffee consistently.

In conclusion, mastering the AeroPress Inverted Method is a great step towards becoming an expert coffee brewer. With this versatile tool and your newfound knowledge, you can brew a rich and delicious cup of coffee to start your day off right. So, start brewing and continue perfecting your craft with the AeroPress Inverted Method!

Before you go, make sure to check out this awesome article about AeroPress accessories you cannot live without. From filters to travel cases and more, these accessories will take your AeroPress game to the next level. Happy brewing!