how to make filter coffee

 How to Make Filter Coffee (With or Without a Filter) – A Beginner’s Guide*

In a busy world filled with instant coffee, many people miss out on the rich, deep taste of real filter coffee. Some think you need special equipment, or that it’s too complicated. But the truth is — making filter coffee is simple, whether or not you own a filter.

I drink coffee every day and work at a coffee shop in Sakleshpur, where I talk to customers who ask the same questions:

* Which coffee powder should I buy?

* Can I make it without a filter?

* Is filter coffee better than instant?

This guide is here to help you — whether you're a student, beginner, or coffee lover. I’ll show you two methods: one with a traditional South Indian filter, and one without it using the boiling method (just like making chai). Let’s start with the basics.

 ☕ What Is Filter Coffee?

Filter coffee is a traditional South Indian way of brewing coffee that’s rich, smooth, and layered with flavor. It’s made by passing hot water through ground coffee and chicory using a metal filter — giving a strong decoction that is later mixed with milk and sugar.

Unlike instant coffee (which is just coffee extract), filter coffee gives you full control over the strength, flavor, and aroma. It's a slow, peaceful process — not just a caffeine fix.

## 🫘 What Coffee Powder Should You Use?

The powder you choose makes a big difference. Many people think they need fine grind only for filters — but that’s not true.

From my experience:

* ✅ *Medium grind* works best — you can use it for both boiling and filter methods

* ✅ I prefer an *80:20 Arabica to Chicory* blend — it gives a smooth yet strong taste

* ✅ You can use rough or fine grind too — don’t overthink it if you’re just starting

* ✅ Always use fresh powder for best aroma

If you're confused at the store, ask for South Indian filter coffee powder — medium grind — 80:20 ratio. That’s what I recommend to customers at our shop.

## 🔥 Method 1: How to Make Coffee Without a Filter (Boiling Method)

This is the easiest method and perfect for home or hostel — no equipment needed.

 Ingredients:

* 1 tablespoon coffee powder

* 1 cup water or milk (or mix both)

* Sugar as per taste

Steps:

1. Boil 1 cup of water or milk in a saucepan

2. Add 1 tablespoon of coffee powder directly into it

3. Let it boil for *30 to 50 seconds* (like making chai)

4. Turn off the heat and wait a few seconds

5. Strain the coffee using a tea strainer into a cup

6. Add sugar and enjoy!

*Tip:* Don’t boil too long — it may turn bitter. 30–40 seconds is enough.

## 🪔 Method 2: How to Make Filter Coffee Using Traditional Filter

The traditional South Indian filter has two cylinders:

* Top part: where you add coffee powder and hot water

* Bottom part: where the decoction collects

### Ingredients:

* 4tablespoons coffee powder (medium grind)

* ¾ cup hot water

* Milk and sugar to taste

### Steps:

1. Add coffee powder into the top chamber of the filter

2. Gently press with the plunger (if your filter has one)

3. Pour hot water (not boiling, just off the boil) over the powder

4. Cover with lid and wait 10–15 minutes

5. You’ll get thick decoction in the lower part

6. Mix 1–2 tablespoons of decoction with hot milk and sugar

7. Serve and enjoy!

*Tip:* For stronger coffee, use more powder or more decoction.

❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid

* ❌ Using very fine powder in boiling method — it becomes muddy

* ❌ Adding sugar before brewing — always add after

* ❌ Pouring boiling water directly on filter — wait 10 seconds after boiling

* ❌ Not cleaning your filter regularly — it affects taste

## 💬 Tips from My Coffee Shop Experience

At our coffee shop in Sakleshpur, I meet many beginners who want to switch from instant to filter coffee — but they feel lost. Here’s what I tell them:

* Start with medium grind 80:20 blend — simple and balanced

* Use whichever method works for you — no pressure

* Don’t be scared to try without a filter

* Enjoy the process — coffee is not just a drink, it's an experience

 ✅ Final Thoughts

You don’t need expensive tools or perfect skills to make great coffee. You just need good powder, the right method, and some curiosity. Whether you choose the filter method or the boiling one — make it your own.

Try both styles, experiment with milk and decoction ratio, and find your perfect cup. Once you start, you’ll never go back to instant.

you can buy our filter coffee powder form our website donigal coffee

know why chicory is added to coffee 

deference between  instant coffee vs filter coffee full detail with my personal experience