- Slope of water slowly from a height results in better coffee extraction
- Scientists found that slope in this way blends and agitates particles better
- The technique can give you the same taste with fewer coffee beans
Scientists have discovered the secret of brewing more tasty, rounded coffee without using extra beans and it is the simple swan neck. This type of boiler has a long, fine sloping spout that produces a higher pressure, more precisely controlled water flow, which is the key to a better brew.
Coffee prices have risen in recent months due to factors, including climate change (including severe drought and frost in Brazil) leading to poor harvest, increased production costs and increased demand for coffee worldwide. Getting the same taste from a smaller part of beans is therefore good news for those of us who love to start the day with a mug of slope.
As reported by The Guardian, researchers from the University of Pennsylvania have found that slope water slowly from a height creates an ‘avalanche-like’ effect that results in better mix of coffee and water, increasing contact time and extraction of several flavor connections from the grounds.
They suggest you try to reduce the amount of coffee you use by 10%, and experiment with pouring from different heights (up to 30 cm) to see the changes in flavor profile.
Choose the right kettle
There are plenty of swan neckbacks around, but I have a few specific recommendations. If you want a traditional boiler for the oven, Stagg Pour-Over Coffee and Tea Kettle from Fellow are an excellent choice.
Fellow is well known for its premium coffee brewing equipment, and colleague Aiden Precision Coffee Maker is the choice of many professional burners, including my Special Coffee Association (SCA) instructor.
Its swan neck boiler is found in two versions: stove and electric. The Steveop version includes a thermometer with a dial on top that shows you when the water has reached the optimal brewing temperature.
In contrast, the electric version has a temperature control that you can set in steps of 1 ° F.
Dualit 92960 Pour-Over Kettle is another great option if you are in the UK. It also has different temperature controls and a team function that keeps the water at your preferred temperature for up to five minutes while weighing out and sanding your beans. It is a little cheaper than while the boiler of the electric swan.
