How To Use a Vacuum Pot

A vacuum pot is a style of coffee pot used by those who want to make rich coffee. In fact, many coffee lovers consider this the best method for making coffee. Here's how to use a vacuum pot:

1. Understand what a vacuum pot looks like. A vacuum pot, which may be metal or glass, consists of an upper section which is designed to sit directly on a lower pot which sits on the stove top. A tube connects the two parts of the vacuum pot, and both pots are sealed with stoppers.
2. Know what you'll need to use a vacuum pot. To use your vacuum pot correctly, you'll need a stove and standard coffee making supplies, including coffee grounds and filters, as well as a measuring spoon. If you are using an electric stove, you'll need a trivet.
3. Fill the bottom section. Set the lower section of the vacuum pot on the stove top. Then, fill it with water, at least half full but leaving some room at the top. You can measure the number of cups you're using in the coffee pot by adding them with a measuring cup; this affects the amount of coffee grounds to use. Turn the burner on high to heat the water.
4. Fill the upper section. First, place the filter inside the upper part of the vacuum pot. Then place the coffee grounds in the filter. Use a level tablespoon of coffee grounds for every cup of water already in the lower part of the vacuum pot.
5. Assemble the vacuum pot. Once the water is boiling, position the upper section of the vacuum pot over the lower section. Press down, creating a tight seal between the top and bottom parts of the vacuum pot. The boiling water will rise through the tube, entering the upper pot.
6. Turn down the heat. Once about half the water has moved from the lower section into the upper section, turn it down to medium heat. Stir the contents of the top section to distribute the grounds. Then let the coffee steep in the upper section for between one and three minutes. The longer you leave the coffee grounds in the water, the stronger the coffee will be.
7. Remove the grounds. Once your coffee has finished brewing, turn off the heat. Let the vacuum pot sit for a minute so that the coffee may drain down from the top section. Once all of the coffee has drained to the lower section, remove the upper section of the pot.
8. Enjoy! Pour your coffee directly from the lower pot into your cup. Enjoy!

Many coffee connoisseurs recommend a metal vacuum pot, which is less likely to break than glass. Some vacuum pots cannot be heated on the stove top. Choose one that is easily used and cleaned; stainless steel is often recommended. There are both manual and automatic versions of vacuum pots. A vacuum pot should only be chosen if your routine allows you the time to enjoy it. Even the automatic versions require carefully watching the coffee while it's brewing.