Moses had an insatiable love for coffee, not just for its energizing properties but for the ritual and comfort it provided. His morning brew was more than just a routine; it was a carefully crafted experience. The first step in Moses’ coffee-making process began the night before. He meticulously selected the beans, often opting for a medium roast to strike a balance between flavor and caffeine content. Sourcing beans from local roasters meant he could ensure freshness. He believed that the foundation of a great cup of coffee lay in the quality of the beans, and he had a preference for single-origin varieties that told a story of their geographical roots.
The following morning, Moses would rise early, his senses tingling in anticipation of that first sip. He reached for his trusty grinder, a burr grinder to be precise, which he believed was essential for achieving that consistent grind size. Moses considered the grind to be one of the most crucial aspects of his coffee brewing method. He would always opt for a medium-coarse grind, which worked wonderfully with his preferred brewing method: the French press. The burr grinder, with its ability to evenly crush the beans rather than chop them haphazardly, enabled the full extraction of flavors and oils.
Once the beans had been ground to his liking, Moses would turn his attention to the water. He had learned through experience that the temperature of the water was just as vital as the beans themselves. Ideally, he aimed for a temperature between 195°F and 205°F. Anything hotter could easily scorch the coffee, while cooler water risked an under-extraction. He would fill his kettle and set it on the stove, occasionally checking the temperature with a thermometer, ensuring he was spot on. This step added a touch of precision that made all the difference in the final product.
As the water heated, Moses prepared his equipment. He chose a sleek, elegant French press, the kind that felt good in his hands. He loved how the process of plunging the coffee felt almost ceremonial, transforming the intricate ritual into a personal celebration of the day ahead. He understood that the brewing time was just as important as the other components. As he meticulously measured out his coffee—typically two tablespoons per six ounces of water—he reflected on how each measurement required attention. This wasn’t just about caffeine; it was about crafting an intricate flavor profile that would awaken his senses.
When the water reached the ideal temperature, Moses poured it over the coffee grounds, watching in delight as the steam rose with the rich, earthy aroma enveloping him. The immediate contact of the hot water with the grounds began a reaction that would release delightful oils. He would stir the mixture gently with a wooden spoon, ensuring that all the grounds were saturated, setting the stage for even extraction. This brief moment felt like a small dance, a ritual that brought him joy as he set the countdown timer for the next four minutes.
During those four minutes, Moses found himself lost in contemplation. He would often take a moment to appreciate the art involved in brewing coffee, acknowledging how it brought a sense of ease and peace to the morning chaos. After the timer dinged, signaling the end of the brewing process, he pressed the plunger down slowly and thoroughly. This was a vital moment because the plunger effectively separated the coffee grounds from the liquid, preventing any over-extraction and ensuring that each cup contained the perfect concentration of flavors.
Pouring the brewed coffee into his favorite mug was a delight in itself. The tactile sensation of the warm cup in his hands was soothing, grounding him before the day began. He liked to drink it black, loving the unadulterated flavor and richness that came from brewing it himself. On rare occasions, he treated himself to a splash of cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon if he was feeling adventurous. Still, most days, the simplicity of black coffee was all he needed to kickstart his morning routine.
Moses often enjoyed his cup of coffee while gazing out the window, appreciating the simple beauty of nature. This ritual of sipping while watching the sunrise over the horizon offered him clarity and motivation. It wasn’t just about coffee; it was about savoring each moment, preparing mentally for the day’s challenges while fueled by his flavorful concoction. For him, brewing coffee was a thoughtful act that demanded presence, and in those moments, he often found inspiration that spurred creativity in both his work and personal life.
In addition to the French press method, Moses also enjoyed experimenting with various brewing techniques depending on his mood. Occasionally, he would switch things up with a pour-over, appreciating the different flavor nuances. Others he knew often preferred espresso or even cold brew, but he believed that each method extracted different characteristics from the same beans. Each cup made in a different apparatus told a different story, allowing for endless experimentation with the same foundational elements.
After finishing his coffee, Moses would always clean his equipment. He regarded this as an extension of his brewing process; a necessary step that kept his tools in top shape for the next ritual. He didn’t see this as a chore; instead, it was another opportunity to be mindful and present, ensuring that his next brew would be just as perfect. By keeping his French press and grinder in prime condition, he was equipped for the next day’s adventure, knowing that tomorrow’s cup would be another chance for creativity and inspiration.
Through these small daily actions, Moses cultivated a bond with his coffee that went beyond mere consumption. The brewing process transformed into a form of meditation, enriching his life in profound ways. Each cup was a reminder of the importance of taking time for oneself in a fast-paced world. For Moses, brewing coffee wasn’t simply about the caffeine boost—it represented a journey of exploration, a dance of flavors, and a moment of serenity that set the tone for everything that followed in his day.
