What proportion of coffee to water should I use?

QUESTION:

What is the "correct" coffee to water ratio to use to brew coffee?

ANSWER:

The ratio is the same, whether you are using a French press or a drip brewer.

Use two level tablespoons of ground coffer for each 6 ounce cup of water.

If you are making mugs of coffee, their capacity is likely to be more like 8 ounces each. In this case, you'll want to use 2 or 2 1/2 level teaspoons of coffee for each mug of water you add to the brewer.

If you like your coffee strong, you can use a little more coffee. But unless you have a peculiar preference for a weak, washed-out brew, never use less.

NOTE: If you want help with the basics of making a great cup of gourmet coffee, learn more about our Beginner's Guide to Making Coffee.