How to Use Old Coffee Beans

So you forgot that jar of coffee beans in the back of the cupboard. All may not be lost. Old, stale coffee beans actually make a very decent cold brew.

First, make sure the beans are not moldy. You will recognize the smell of mold instantly and without the shadow of a doubt. In doubt, pour the beans over the compost pile and splurge on a new bag. If they are simply on the stale side, however, using the cold brew method will yield a very palatable cup.

There are various ways to cold brew coffee. Here is the easiest method.

1. Coarsely grind your favorite coffee beans.
2. Add the ground coffee to your French Press.
3. Pour in cold, filtered water. 4 cups of water for every cup of coffee grounds is the rule of thumb. Adapt to your press size.
4. Set the plunger aside for now. Cover the mouth of the container with plastic film. Refrigerate for at least 12 hours.
5. Now, plunge as usual and pour. Remember, the cold brew method creates a concentrate. Only fill your cup to about half. Add kettle-heated water to bring it up to temp.

Store any leftover coffee in ice cube trays for on-demand ice cubes to add to iced coffee. These will keep your beverage cold without watering it down.