Coffee guide / Decoction
Filter coffee decoction: thick, fragrant, never thin
The decoction is the heart of filter kaapi. Get it thick and fragrant and the milk does the rest. Here is the method, and what to change when it comes out thin or bitter.
In the cup: A dark, thick decoction that stands up to hot milk. Swadamalnad (80% Arabica, 20% chicory) is made for it.
How to make it
Steel filter decoction (About 20 minutes)
- Add the powder. Two to three heaped tablespoons in the top cup for a regular four-cup filter. Level it gently and rest the disc on top.
- Pour hot water. Use water just off the boil. Fill the top cup slowly and close the lid.
- Wait. Let it drip for 15 to 20 minutes without stirring or pressing. The first drips are the strongest.
- Use it the same day. Keep the decoction covered and use it the same day for the best aroma.
| If your decoction is… | Try this |
|---|---|
| Thin or watery | Add half a tablespoon more powder next time, and check the powder is fresh and not packed hard |
| Bitter | Use water just off the boil, not rolling, and do not press the disc down |
| Dripping too fast | The grind may be too coarse, or the bed too loose. Level it gently |
| Not dripping | The bed is packed too tight. Use a little less powder and do not press |
What you need
- South Indian steel filter (you probably have this): Two stacked cups with a pressing disc: it drips a thick decoction slowly. The classic way to make filter kaapi.
- Kitchen scale (0.1 g) (nice to have): Weigh coffee and water, so the cup tastes the same every day.
- Airtight coffee jar (nice to have): Keeps air, light and damp away from your coffee between brews.
We are planning to stock this equipment; it is not on sale yet.
Which Kaapiswada coffee to buy
Swadamalnad (80% Arabica · 20% Chicory, 250 g): Swadamalnad gives the thick, bittersweet decoction that South Indian filter kaapi is known for.
Also works: Pureswada (100% Arabica · No chicory). For a cleaner decoction with no chicory, Pureswada is 100% Arabica. Use about half a tablespoon more powder.
Tips
- Freshness matters more than quantity. Buy what you will finish in a few weeks.
Read more: How to make strong South Indian filter coffee · Weak decoction: how to fix it · Why is my filter coffee bitter? · How long does decoction last?
More guides: I want South Indian filter coffee · How much coffee powder do I need? · All guides
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