Lovers of bold coffee, it is time to learn how to make Cafe Bustelo. This is one of those rare coffee brands that have sustained consumer interest and almost have a fan following. Of course, many of us have our favorite coffee brands. However, it’s rarely as strong a bond as the following for Cafe Bustelo.
It isn’t difficult to make a great cuppa, and though it’s an espresso ground coffee, you don’t necessarily need an espresso machine. Although this fine ground coffee works wonders in an espresso machine, its magic also shows in drip coffee makers. And that’s what we’ll talk about.
Café Bustelo And Its Popularity
I think one of the biggest factors in favor of Bustelo is that they’ve been around forever. Yet, unlike many other brands that diluted their offerings for profit, Bustelo has stayed the course.
It is characterized as a strong and bold coffee that can deliver the kick of espresso even with a drip coffee maker. That’s a reason Café Bustelo K-Cup Pods are amongst the best espresso k cups.
The coffee from this brand usually is available as an “extra fine” pre-ground coffee for espresso. Even with a drip coffee maker, we expect the Bustelo to taste very much like espresso. However, it does have its own bold flavor and taste that sets it apart and makes it so very popular.
Step-By-Step Guide To Make Cafe Bustelo
Here’s a discussion on how to make Cafe Bustelo in a drip coffee maker. Here are the things you will need:
- Drip Coffee Maker
- Cafe Bustelo Dark Roast Coffee
- Sugar (optional, better skipped)
- Milk or cream (optional)
- Coffee filter (assuming your coffee maker does not have a filter)
Placing a single paper coffee filter should work okay. It is better if your coffee maker has a washable filter. The reusable filters can be superior to disposable filters. Especially so for a drink like Bustelo, where we expect a strong and bold cuppa.
Step 1: Preparation
Check your drip coffee maker and filter. They should both be clean to avoid any unpleasant taste. If your coffee maker has a reusable filter, awesome, otherwise place a single paper filter.
Step 2: Add Water
The next step is to add water to the coffee maker reservoir. It is better to use filtered water. Doing so removes possible added impurities to the water, including chlorine.
Another scenario where filtered water is useful is if your water supply is primarily composed of hard water. It usually doesn’t help taste and could leave behind mineral deposits in your coffee maker. Using filtered water can lead to a rarer requirement for descaling your coffee maker.
To start, measure water in a cup and add it to the reservoir. It is better to add slightly more water than needed. This accounts for absorption by coffee and filter. It also covers the possibility that the coffee maker may not use all of the water available in the reservoir.
It’s important to ensure that the coffee is not watered down. With the right amount of water in the reservoir, we get a proper coffee, not a watered-down version.
Step 3: Add Cafe Bustelo
Measure your coffee in a tablespoon. Add slightly less than one tablespoon per serving of the coffee. Keep in mind, this ratio makes a very strong cup. If you prefer something milder, change the ratio to your liking.
Often, it is suggested that half a tablespoon of Cafe Bustelo coffee be used for each cup. And that’s a pretty good and strong drink too. Being bold is the hallmark of this coffee, so I’ll suggest keeping the drink strong. Feel free to adjust the amount of coffee used to your taste. Whatever you choose, make sure the coffee fits cleanly inside the filter.
If you’re entirely new to black coffee, you should start with something like a smaller, milder volume of Cafe Bustelo.
Step 4: Let It Brew
Now is the time to let it brew. Switch on the coffee maker and let it do its job. Depending on the coffee maker, it can take a few seconds to a few minutes. It will also depend on the amount of water placed in the coffee reservoir. Well, you know your coffee maker best! So wait up until it is done with heating water and brewing.
Step 5: Enjoy!
Once the coffee maker is done brewing, let the drink pour into your cappuccino cup or carafe. Your Cafe Bustelo is ready! I like to keep my coffee black, but depending on your preference, you may choose to add some warm milk or whipped cream.
Cinnamon is also a pretty effective addition. If you choose to add milk, cream, or cinnamon, I’d suggest using only small quantities. It’s not moderation, only add the amount of ingredients that you think you absolutely need. The fewer, the better.
The key in any case here is to ensure that the additive does not overshadow the taste of your coffee. It would be a pity if we worked so much to taste the goodness of a Cafe Bustelo, only to have it overshadowed by milk or cinnamon!
Bustelo The Bold
Well, there we have it. As you see, the process of making the Bustelo in a drip coffee maker is not widely different than making regular coffee. The key to understanding how to make Cafe Bustelo is in understanding and appreciating it as a bold drink. Play to its strengths, and avoid watering it down.
