Does a french coffee press make a great deal of difference in the taste, or I should say, ?30 dollars worth?!
Answers: I'm thinking of getting one for Christmas, but I hesitate if it's just going to taste like another cup of coffee. Also, how many seconds do you count for the perfect grind size(home grinder) for said press?
To me, a French Press is the best way to brew coffee. It is so much smoother, and the coffee never tastes burnt. Also, buying a French Press isn't exactly like buying a coffee maker....expensive ones don't really make that much of a difference. I bought one for $10 and it makes great coffee. Even though filters are not really expensive, you will never have to worry about buying them again! Plus, there is much less of a mess to worry about.
I can't help you with how many seconds you need to hold the grind for, but do know that you are going to want to grind it as coarse as you can. Fine grounds will leave sediment in the coffee and you will have one nasty cup of coffee. Do not grind your coffee as long as you would for your pot you use now.
A french coffee press is a very nice way to enjoy a cup of coffee. I have a coffee press at home and i really enjoy it. it does make a difference in taste, quality and texture. if the coffee press you are looking into is only 30 dollars i suggest you try it out. And if you are grinding the coffee yourself you should count to about 20 seconds.
I love my French Press. Yes the grind needs to be just right, it takes practice and the coffee beans have got to be really good. That means trying lots of different brands and blends to find the one you love.