3. Brew Like a Cowboy

Cowboy coffee is ideal if you don’t want to carry any extra coffee equipment. You just need a stove (or fire), water, coffee grounds, and a pot. First, take out your pot and add 2 tablespoons of coffee grounds for every 6 to 8 ounces of water. Bring this mixture to a boil, then take the pot off the heat. Next, add 2 to 4 tablespoons of water to help the grounds settle. Your coffee grounds will fall to the bottom and you can pour yourself a homemade cup of coffee. Pro tip: Make sure you pour the coffee slowly for your grounds to remain at the bottom of the pot. 

Wondering why your coffee tastes bitter? You might be surprised by the possible causes, which include the type of coffee cup you're using. Use this checklist to remove the bitter from your morning ritual. 

Coffee Beans Are Stale

How old is your coffee? Is it pre-ground? As a general rule, whole bean coffee stays at peak freshness for about three weeks after it's roasted. After three weeks, the oils and sugars within the coffee bean escape, causing the flavor of the coffee to taste bitter. If you're using pre-ground coffee, the coffee can take on a bitter flavor 24 hours after it's ground. That's why we always recommend buying freshly roasted whole bean coffee and grinding it right before you brew.

Coffee Is Too Finely Ground

Grinding coffee too fine is a common cause of bitterness (also known as over extraction). How do you know what grind size is right for you? This often requires a little experimentation. The grind you use depends on how you make coffee. For an espresso maker or an AeroPress where the coffee grounds aren't exposed to water for a long period of time, you'll want to use a finer grind. For a pour-over brewing method where the grounds sit in water, such as a French press or Chemex, you'll want to use a courser grind. For an automatic coffee maker, you'll want be somewhere in the middle.

How to Store Coffee Beans

Packaging and storage influence shelf life for both whole beans and ground coffee. Bags that are flushed with nitrogen can greatly stall bean spoilage, but only if they remain sealed. Also, bags lined with airtight materials prevent contact with the environment, preserving life. In general, any storage method that limits exposure to air, heat, moisture, or light also helps extend the life of the coffee. If your bag doesn’t have these, air tight tins and containers are the way to go. We like the  traditional tins. Store the tin, container or bag in your pantry, away from heat sources like ovens or stovetops. 

How Is Coffee Made?