How to Choose and Brew "Easy-to-Drink Coffee" for Optimal Relaxation

There are various types and brewing methods for coffee, such as espresso, drip, and French press. Each has its own distinct characteristics, and people's preferences differ. But what kind of coffee is truly suited for relaxation?

We will objectively analyze the concentration and taste to unravel how to choose and brew coffee that soothes your mind and body.

Premise: What is a pleasant coffee concentration?

Coffee has a "pleasant concentration" that is scientifically proven. Baristas use a concentration index called "TDS (Total Dissolved Solids)" to measure how much coffee component is dissolved in 100% water.

　　●Ideal TDS range for drip coffee: 1.0 to 1.7%
It is said that most people find coffee brewed within this range pleasant.

Although coffee components account for only a small percentage, about 1%, in a cup, a slight difference of 0.1% can significantly impact the taste. For example, some people find a concentration of 1.0% "thin," while others find 1.5% "too strong to drink." This delicate balance determines the "pleasantness" of coffee.

↑Specialized equipment for measuring coffee concentration. TDS meter.

Tips for brewing pleasant coffee

1. Roast level: Medium roast, not too extreme, is recommended

The roast level of coffee beans significantly affects the taste.
To relax, you should avoid extreme flavors, strong acidity, and bitterness.
For this reason, a medium roast is especially recommended for those who are not yet accustomed to brewing their own coffee.
Below is a list of the characteristics of each roast level.

　●Dark Roast: Tastes weak and unsatisfying unless brewed at high concentration, which also brings bitterness.
　●Light Roast: Tends to be strongly acidic. Especially difficult for beginners to handle.
　●Medium Roast: Balanced acidity and bitterness, easy to drink and recommended for beginners.

A moderate roast level is the first step to "easy-to-drink coffee."

2. Golden ratio for brewing: 1:16 as a baseline. Or try 1:17-1:18 for a lighter taste.

The concentration of coffee is determined by the ratio of water to beans and the grind size.

●Recommended ratio: 1 part coffee beans to 16 parts water
　Example: 15g of coffee beans to 240g of hot water
●If you want it lighter: Try a ratio of 1:17 to 1:18
　Example: 15g of beans to 255g to 270g of hot water
●Grind size: Medium to coarse

By slightly adjusting the ratio, you can achieve a lighter, easier-to-drink coffee. The concentration of coffee can change significantly with minor adjustments, so find the balance that suits your preference.
Brewing with the ratios mentioned above should result in a TDS of around 1.0% to 1.2%.

3. Water temperature: No thermometer needed

While temperature does not significantly affect the extracted components compared to grind size, the initial drinking temperature is very important. When you want to enjoy coffee calmly, brewing at a slightly lower temperature allows you to immediately enjoy coffee at a comfortable temperature.

The ideal water temperature is around 90°C. If you don't have a thermometer, you can adjust the temperature using the following method:

● Tip for adjusting temperature:
If you transfer boiling water to a brewing kettle or pot, the temperature will drop by about 10°C. This will bring it to around 90°C!

4. Relax with aroma

The aroma of coffee has a relaxing effect, and the sensation obtained varies depending on the type of aroma.

●Recommended for mornings: Ethiopian coffee
　Characterized by a gorgeous, floral aroma.
●Recommended for evenings: Brazilian coffee
　Nutty and chocolatey aromas calm the mind and provide a quiet relaxing effect.
●Special cup: Geisha variety
　Most "Geisha" coffee beans are characterized by a luxurious, floral aroma like jasmine. Try it on a special day or when you want to treat yourself. Its elegant aroma and taste create a luxurious relaxation time.

Summary: A pleasant cup for daily healing

To make "easy-to-drink coffee" ideal for relaxation, it's important to grasp the brewing points based on scientific evidence.

●Roast level: Choose a medium roast
●Brewing ratio: 1:16 (or 1:17-1:18 for a slightly lighter brew)
●Grind size: Medium to coarse
●Water temperature: Approximately 90°C (if no thermometer, transfer water)
●Aroma: Ethiopian for mornings, Brazilian for evenings, Geisha for special occasions

By adding a little thoughtfulness to your daily coffee ritual, your everyday life is sure to become richer and calmer. Why not start enjoying the scientifically "pleasant cup" brewing time today?

Recommended Works

『Coffee Time Melodies -Calm tunes to unwind and relax-』