What To Know
- Combine the grounds with cold water in a large container (like a pitcher or a mason jar).
- Cover the container and let the coffee steep in the refrigerator for at least 12 hours, or up to 24 hours.
- Open the gas valve on the tank and purge the keg with nitrogen for a few seconds to remove any remaining air.
Forget the lukewarm, bitter coffee of the past. The world of coffee has been revolutionized by the smooth, creamy, and intensely flavorful nitro cold brew. This guide will walk you through the process of how to keg nitro cold brew, so you can bring this delicious beverage to your home, cafe, or event.
The Magic of Nitro Cold Brew
Nitro cold brew, also known as “nitro coffee,” takes cold brew to a whole new level. The magic lies in the infusion of nitrogen gas, which creates a velvety texture reminiscent of Guinness beer. This process results in a richer, more flavorful experience, with a cascading effect of tiny bubbles that create a beautiful, creamy head.
The Ingredients: What You’ll Need
Before you dive into the kegging process, you’ll need to gather the following ingredients and equipment:
- High-quality coffee beans: Choose beans that are known for their robust flavor and low acidity.
- Water: Use filtered or spring water for the best results.
- Cold brew concentrate: You can make your own or purchase pre-made concentrate.
- Keg: A standard 5-gallon keg is ideal for home brewing.
- Nitro gas tank: A dedicated nitrogen tank with a regulator is essential for infusing the nitrogen.
- Keg coupler: This connects the keg to the nitro gas tank.
- Tap: Choose a tap that is designed for nitro cold brew, with a fine-pore diffuser.
- Cleaning supplies: Sanitize your equipment thoroughly before and after each use.
Step-by-Step Guide to Kegging Nitro Cold Brew
Now that you have all the necessary ingredients and equipment, let’s get started with the kegging process:
1. Brew the Cold Brew Concentrate
- Grind the beans: Grind the beans coarsely, similar to the texture of coarse sand.
- Steep the grounds: Combine the grounds with cold water in a large container (like a pitcher or a mason jar). The ratio is typically 1:8 (1 part coffee grounds to 8 parts water).
- Steep for 12-24 hours: Cover the container and let the coffee steep in the refrigerator for at least 12 hours, or up to 24 hours.
- Filter the concentrate: Strain the coffee grounds using a fine-mesh filter or cheesecloth. The resulting liquid is your cold brew concentrate.
2. Prepare the Keg
- Sanitize the keg: Thoroughly clean and sanitize the keg using a keg cleaning solution.
- Chill the keg: Place the sanitized keg in the refrigerator to chill it down to about 40°F (4°C).
3. Fill the Keg
- Combine concentrate and water: In a separate container, combine the cold brew concentrate with filtered water to achieve your desired strength. A good starting point is a 1:1 ratio of concentrate to water.
- Transfer to the keg: Carefully pour the cold brew mixture into the chilled keg. Leave about 1-2 inches of headspace at the top.
4. Infuse with Nitrogen
- Connect the keg coupler: Attach the keg coupler to the keg.
- Connect the nitro gas tank: Connect the nitrogen tank to the coupler, ensuring the regulator is set to the desired pressure (usually around 30-40 PSI).
- Purge the keg: Open the gas valve on the tank and purge the keg with nitrogen for a few seconds to remove any remaining air.
- Close the gas valve: After purging, close the gas valve on the tank.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
- Connect the tap: Connect your nitro tap to the keg coupler.
- Pour your nitro cold brew: Pour the nitro cold brew into a glass and enjoy the smooth, creamy texture and intense flavor.
Tips for Kegging Nitro Cold Brew Like a Pro
- Use high-quality coffee beans: The quality of your beans will directly impact the flavor of your nitro cold brew.
- Control the grind size: A coarse grind is essential for preventing over-extraction and bitterness.
- Steep for the right amount of time: Steeping for too short or too long a time can affect the flavor.
- Use filtered water: Filtered or spring water will enhance the taste of your nitro cold brew.
- Chill the keg thoroughly: A cold keg will ensure that your nitro cold brew stays cold and refreshing.
- Experiment with different nitrogen pressures: Adjust the pressure to achieve your desired level of creaminess.
- Clean your equipment regularly: Properly cleaning and sanitizing your equipment will prevent contamination and ensure the best possible taste.
The Final Touch: Beyond the Basics
Once you’ve mastered the basics of kegging nitro cold brew, you can explore ways to elevate your brewing experience:
- Experiment with different coffee blends: Try using different coffee beans or blends to create unique flavor profiles.
- Add a touch of sweetness: Sweeten your nitro cold brew with a small amount of simple syrup or agave nectar.
- Infuse with flavors: Add a splash of vanilla extract, cinnamon, or other spices for a twist on the classic nitro cold brew.
- Create a nitro cold brew cocktail: Combine your nitro cold brew with spirits like bourbon or rum for a unique and refreshing cocktail.
The Ultimate Coffee Experience: A Farewell to Ordinary Coffee
Kegging nitro cold brew is a rewarding process that allows you to create a truly exceptional coffee experience. By following these steps and experimenting with different techniques, you can unlock the velvety smoothness and intense flavor of this incredible beverage. Say goodbye to ordinary coffee and embrace the smooth, creamy, and delicious world of nitro cold brew!
What You Need to Learn
1. How long does nitro cold brew last in a keg?
Nitro cold brew in a keg can last for several weeks, especially if it’s properly stored in a cool, dark place. However, for optimal freshness, it’s recommended to consume it within 2 weeks.
2. What happens if I don’t have a nitro gas tank?
While a nitro gas tank is essential for creating the signature creamy texture, you can still enjoy a delicious cold brew without it. Simply serve your cold brew concentrate over ice or add a splash of milk or cream.
3. Can I use a different type of keg?
While a standard 5-gallon keg is ideal, you can use smaller kegs or even growlers if you’re brewing for smaller quantities. However, you’ll need to adjust the nitrogen pressure accordingly.
4. How do I clean my nitro tap?
To clean your nitro tap, disassemble it and soak the parts in a sanitizing solution. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and reassemble the tap.
5. What are some good coffee beans to use for nitro cold brew?
Some popular choices for nitro cold brew include:
- Sumatra Mandheling: Known for its rich body and earthy flavor.
- Ethiopian Yirgacheffe: Offers a bright acidity and floral aroma.
- Guatemalan Antigua: Features a balanced flavor profile with notes of chocolate and caramel.
