How is cold brew coffee prepared?

Cold brew coffee is prepared by steeping coarse coffee grounds in cold water for an extended period, typically 12 to 24 hours. This method allows for the gradual extraction of flavors from the coffee grounds without the bitterness that can result from hot brewing methods. The cold water interacts differently with the compounds in coffee, resulting in a smoother and less acidic beverage. By using a longer steeping time, the flavors develop slowly, creating a richer and more complex taste profile that is characteristic of cold brew coffee.

In contrast, brewing with hot water for a short time leads to traditional coffee methods that quickly extract oils, acids, and flavors, which is not the goal for cold brew. Similarly, simply mixing coffee with ice does not allow for the nuanced flavor extraction that cold brewing accomplishes. Shaking coffee grounds with cold water would not effectively extract the flavors, as the brewing process requires a much longer period for infusion to occur effectively.