Pirates Pantry

Plundering the seven seas for grub worth preserving

Stovetop Boiled Coffee (Cowboy Coffee)

beveragebreakfaststovetopeasy-quickvegetariangluten-freedairy-freeamerican

Prep
2 min
Cook
8 min
Total
14 min
Servings
3

For the Boiled Coffee

Keep yer pot steady when pouring - patience rewards ye with clear coffee, not a mouthful of grounds

Ingredients

  • ⅓ cup coarse ground coffee
  • 3 cups water
  • ¼ cup cold water for settling

Instructions

  1. Add 3 cups of water to a pot or kettle.
  2. Once water is just warm (not hot), add 1/3 cup coarse ground coffee.
  3. Bring to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
  4. Continue to boil for 5 minutes.
  5. Remove from heat and let sit for 2 minutes.
  6. Stir gently and let sit for another 2 minutes.
  7. Pour 1/4 cup cold water slowly down the spout and around the edges to settle the grounds.
  8. Pour slowly and carefully into cups, keeping the pot steady to avoid disturbing the settled grounds.

Prep: 2 min • Cook: 8 min • Wait: 4 min

Notes

This traditional brewing method, favored by sailors and landlubbers alike, produces a robust brew without fancy equipment. The cold water trick sends the grounds straight to Davy Jones’ locker (the bottom of the pot), leaving ye with a clearer cup. For a stronger brew fit for the morning watch, add an extra tablespoon of grounds. This method works best with coarse grounds - fine grounds will make for a muddy cup. Store any leftover brew in a sealed container in the ship’s stores for up to 2 days, though fresh is always best.