Coffee Ideas

Before I launch into this, I'll make it clear that I'm somewhat of a coffee snob and have a very strong opinion on the subject.

A percolator is definitely about the easiest way to make coffee out in the woods. But the result is over processed beans at best, but more likely a brew that tastes burnt and bitter.

My recommendation? Learn how to use a French press. There is a learning curve to using one, but once mastered, it'll give you the smoothest cup of joe you've ever tasted. A press is also best used with beans freshly ground to a certain coarseness (a part of the aforementioned learning curve).There are countless sites online that show you how to use one. It's the only brewing process that leaves in the essential oils that drip makers and percolators don't.

If that sounds like too much to deal with, my second suggestion would be to use a pour over method. There are plenty of companies that sell collapsible drip makers that use standard drip filters. Drip maker goes over a mug/pitcher/receptacle of just about any kind, filter and ground coffee like in your home coffee maker and pour boiling water over the grounds and, voila - coffee!

Cowboy coffee is good. Like another's suggested, boil the grounds for about a minute and then add cold water, the grounds will settle to the bottom. Surprisingly smooth too.

Another option is to get a cold brew set-up going. Let it work all day/night in the cool water. Next morning, heat it to desired drinking temp and start another batch of cold brew for the next day. If it's the heat of summer, then you have ice coffee as an option too.

I too like a French Press, and have a double-wall stainless steel one for camping, since mornings can be chilly and hot coffee can get a little too cold too quickly. Or, "Self Reliant Outfitters" sells a 48oz single wall which can be used on the fire. I have one of these as well and have been using it at home quite a bit too. I like it a lot. Self Reliance Outfitters 48 oz French Press

Another thing I've done when hunting, boil some water and heat up a GOOD thermos while making hot coffee before bed. Put your coffee in your pre-heated thermos and crack open a thermos of hot coffee first thing while getting the next batch going in the morning. Going into a thermos as soon as brewed will keep it from going bitter on you, like letting the pot sit on the fire and cook.