How to Brew South Indian Filter Coffee
Master the art of traditional South Indian decoction coffee.
The Traditional Decoction Method
South Indian Filter Coffee is more than just a drink; it's a ritual. The heart of this method is the "decoction"—a thick, potent coffee concentrate brewed using a traditional brass or stainless steel filter.
The Perfect Ratio
For a rich decoction, we recommend a coffee-to-water ratio between 1:5 and 1:8. For example, use 20g of coffee for every 100ml of water. Use a fine-medium grind—slightly coarser than espresso but finer than pour-over.
The Brewing Process
- Add the coffee grounds to the upper chamber of the filter and lightly press down with the plunger.
- Pour boiling water over the grounds and let it "bloom" for 30 seconds.
- Place the lid and wait 15-20 minutes for the decoction to drip into the lower chamber.
Mixing and Serving
Mix your fresh decoction with hot, frothy milk and sugar to taste. The traditional way is to pour it back and forth between a "dabara" and a tumbler to create a beautiful foam. First Sip's filter blends are specifically designed to stand up to the richness of milk, providing that classic, bold flavor.