Step by step

Method

5 steps

1. 1

   Combine 1 cup coarsely ground coffee with 6 cups cold water in a large jar or pitcher with a lid. Stir or shake so every ground is wet — dry pockets stay bitter.

2. 2

   Cover and rest at room temperature 12–24 hours. Give it an occasional stir or shake if you remember. Longer steep = stronger concentrate.

3. 3

   Strain through a coffee filter, a fine mesh strainer lined with cheesecloth, or a French press into a clean pitcher. Discard the grounds. You should have a dark, smooth concentrate — not muddy grit.

4. 4

   Taste. If it's too strong to sip straight, dilute with cold water to your liking. Store covered in the fridge up to a week.

5. 5

   To serve, pour concentrate over ice and top with cold water or milk. Sweeten if you like. You want a smooth, low-acid cold coffee that tastes rich without bitterness — not muddy grounds in the glass or a weak brown water.