What does the press part of the french press actually do?

GarageBoy · Oct 18, 2009

So does the pressing action do anything or do I do it just to get the grinds out of the way?

mmack66 · Oct 18, 2009

Keeps coffee grounds out of your cup.

82R100 · Oct 18, 2009

Moves the grounds through the water (as opposed to other devices, which move the water through the grounds).

- Chris

GarageBoy · Oct 18, 2009

Shouldn't I get the same flavor out of cowboy coffee?

homebrewer · Oct 18, 2009

Some claim that the slow pressing action, combined with a very fine mesh screen helps to emulsify the coffee oils into the water. Apparently this adds to the fuller flavor and body of a french pressed cup of coffee..... I'm not sure that I believe it or not, I'm just repeating what I have heard from others that are more experienced than I.

bob.e · Oct 18, 2009

everyone I know prefer the french press to the filter or percolator type they feel the coffee has more body

_JP_ · Oct 18, 2009

GarageBoy said:
Shouldn't I get the same flavor out of cowboy coffee?

True cowboy coffee is different in that it is boiled, or at least simmered over the flame while it is brewing. The French press just gets hot water and is left to sit.

But the biggest difference is that you use your teeth to stain out the grounds as you drink it.