Get prepared

• 1). Choose top quality coffee beans. To ensure the beans are at their peak freshness, they should be used within 10 days of roasting.
  
  
• 2). Boil the water. To make a life-changing coffee, use cold, filtered or distilled water. If using tap water, make sure it is cold. The ideal French press coffee is made with water that is between 190 degrees F and 200 degrees F. An easy way to lower the water temperature slightly is to pour the boiling water into a measuring cup and then into the French press beaker.
  
  
• 3). Measure out two level tablespoons of whole beans, while the water is boiling and grind it. Grinding the beans at home is key to achieving the life-changing status of the brew, but not all grinders are up to the task. More expensive burr grinders produce an even grind versus the blade-type grinders, which slice through the beans unevenly and leave some fine particles that will muddy the coffee. Produce a course grind of about 1 mm.
  
  

Steep and enjoy

• 1). Remove the plunger from the beaker and add the ground coffee. Pour 6 oz. of the hot water over the grounds. Leave at least 1 inch at the top of the pot. Stir with a plastic or wooden spoon and rest the plunger top on the brew without plunging it down. Let steep for four minutes.
  
  
• 2). While firmly holding the press handle, slowly push the plunger straight down. It should take about 20 seconds to completely push it down.
  
  
• 3
  Coffee this good should be savored.Jupiterimages/Goodshoot/Getty Images
  
  Turn the lid to open the pour spout, pour out a cup and take time to savor the life-changing coffee.