Perfect coffee on the go: with the percolator

For centuries, coffee has fascinated people all over the world. A special method of coffee preparation with a long tradition is percolating. In this article, we dive into the fascinating world of percolators and discover how these traditional devices work and why they remain so popular today.

What is a percolator and how does it work?

The percolator is a traditional coffee maker that has made a true comeback in recent years. Its name comes from the Latin word "percolare," which means "to filter through." And that exactly describes its principle of operation.

How does coffee preparation with the percolator work?

1. Heating water: First, water is filled into the lower part of the percolator.
2. Steam pressure: When heated, steam is created that builds pressure.
3. Water rise: This pressure causes the water to be pushed up through a tube.
4. Coffee contact: Once at the top, the hot water meets the coffee grounds contained in a sieve.
5. Flavor extraction: As the water drips through the coffee grounds, valuable oils and aromas are extracted.
6. Backflow: The enriched water flows back into the lower part of the percolator and the process repeats.

The benefits of water circulation

This continuous circulation of water creates an especially intense and aromatic coffee. The multiple passes of water over the coffee grounds ensure that all flavors are optimally extracted.

Perfect percolator coffee: The best beans, grind sizes, and water

To bring out the full flavor of your percolator coffee, the right ingredients and precise preparation are essential.

Choosing the right coffee bean

Not every bean is equally suitable for the percolator. A medium roast is usually a good choice. It offers a balanced mix of acidity and body. Lighter roasts can quickly taste sour, while very dark roasts often become bitter.

The ideal grind size

The grind size plays a crucial role in the taste of your coffee. A grind that is too fine can cause the water to not flow properly, making the coffee bitter. Conversely, a grind that is too coarse results in a watery taste.

For the percolator, a medium coarse grind is recommended. It’s best to compare it to the grind size for a French press.

The importance of water

The quality of the water also has a big impact on the taste of your coffee. Fresh, cold water with low mineral content is best. Avoid tap water with high lime content, as this can affect the taste of the coffee.

The perfect ratio

A good coffee-to-water ratio is also crucial. As a guideline, you can use 60-70 grams of coffee per liter of water.

Summary of the most important factors:

• Beans: Medium roast
• Grind size: Medium coarse
• Water: Fresh, cold, and low in minerals
• Ratio: 60-70 grams of coffee per liter of water

Experiment and find your personal favorite!

Everyone has their own taste. Experiment with different beans, grind sizes, and water amounts to find your perfect percolator coffee.

Step-by-step guide: How to brew perfect coffee with the percolator

Unlike other manual methods like the hand filter or French press, brewing coffee with the percolator may take a little more time and practice. But with this step-by-step guide, percolator coffee becomes an absolute outdoor delight. We explain the preparation of percolator coffee using the example of the Perkomax from Petromax, but other percolators work on the same principle.

The right bean

Use coarsely ground coffee. Either use a ready-made blend or gently crush the beans of your choice in a mortar or coffee grinder. The coarse coffee grounds prevent the percolator’s sieve holes from clogging during brewing or coffee grounds ending up in the cup later. Coarse coffee grounds also reduce the contact time of the water with the coffee grounds. This prevents over-extraction and keeps the coffee from becoming bitter.

The optimal preparation using the example of the Perkomax from Petromax

1. Fill enough drinking water into the percolator. Be sure to observe the minimum and maximum fill levels. The water must not come into direct contact with the filter basket.
2. Put the desired amount of coffee up to just below the top tube end in the filter basket. We recommend the following amounts for the individual Petromax percolator models:
   • 8 tsp in 1.3 liter enamel Perkomax
   • 13 tsp in 1.5 liter stainless steel Perkomax
   • 25 tsp in the 3-liter stainless steel Perkomax
3. Close the lid and keep it closed during brewing. Note: For the enamel Perkomax, turn the tilt guard (nose) toward the handle side before closing.
4. Take care of the heat source. Whether on a camping stove or over a campfire, the percolator should get enough heat to bring the water to a boil.
5. You’ll hear clearly when the water starts to boil. With the stainless steel Perkomax, you can even watch the brewing process through the glass knob. The optimal brewing time is 12-13 minutes for the small percolators, about 15 minutes for the large model. Basically: the longer the coffee brews, the stronger it gets. Try out how you like your coffee from the percolator best.

6. When the coffee is ready, remove it from the heat and pour it either with the Petromax Pouring Aid or with heat-resistant gloves.
7. Now it’s time to sit back and enjoy!

Cleaning and caring for your percolator: Tips for a long lifespan

Percolator coffee on the go: The ideal companion for camping and outdoor activities

Who doesn’t know it: You wake up at the campsite in the morning craving a cup of freshly brewed coffee to start the day. With a percolator, this wish is quickly fulfilled. The percolator is the perfect companion for all outdoor adventures, whether camping, hiking, or at a festival.

Why the percolator is the perfect travel companion:

• Robust and durable: Percolators are usually made from sturdy materials like stainless steel and are therefore extremely durable. They withstand shocks and vibrations well, making them ideal for use in rough conditions.
• Versatile: Percolators can be used on various heat sources, such as a camping stove, a campfire, or even a spirit stove.
• Compact and lightweight: Many models are compact and light, so they easily fit into any backpack.
• Easy to use: Brewing coffee with a percolator is very simple and requires no special equipment.
• Authentic taste: The percolator brews a particularly aromatic and intense coffee that perfectly rounds off the outdoor experience.

Tips for brewing on the go:

• Preparation: Grind the coffee at home and store it in an airtight container. This keeps the aroma intact.
• Water: Use clean drinking water. If you don’t have drinking water available, you can filter water from a stream or river.
• Stability: Place the percolator on a stable surface.
• Safety distance: Make sure the percolator is kept at a safe distance from flammable materials.
• Cleaning: Clean the percolator thoroughly after each use to ensure optimal hygiene.

The percolator is not only a traditional coffee maker but also a practical companion for all outdoor activities. With it, you can enjoy your favorite coffee anytime, anywhere.

How to brew successfully at the campfire and campsite

The crackling of the fire, the scent of the forest, and the anticipation of a cup of hot coffee – camping has its own special charm. With a percolator, you can enjoy this moment even more intensely. Here are some tips for perfect coffee brewing outdoors:

The right fire setup:

• Stability: Make sure the ground for your fire is stable. A fire grate or fire pit provides a secure base.
• Wind protection: Build a wind shield from stones or a fire basket so the flames don’t go out so quickly.

The perfect spot:

• Safety distance: Keep a safe distance from flammable materials like trees or dry leaves.
• Water source: Make sure you have a water source nearby.

Tips and tricks:

• Firewood: Use dry wood to create an even heat.
• Wind protection: A wind shield made of aluminum foil can concentrate the heat and shorten the brewing time.
• Insulation: To keep your coffee warm longer, you can wrap the percolator in a blanket or sleeping bag.

Imagine this: You’re sitting by the campfire, stars sparkling in the sky, and a cup of aromatic coffee steaming in your hand. With a percolator, your camping trip becomes an unforgettable experience.

Percolator vs. French Press & Co.: Which brewing method is right for you?

Choosing the right coffee brewing method depends on various factors: your personal taste, the resources available, and of course the occasion. Let’s take a closer look at the most popular methods:

• Percolator:

  • Advantages: Robust, easy to use, ideal for groups, strong and intense flavor.
  • Disadvantages: Can become bitter if brewed too long, less control over extraction.
  • Ideal for: Camping, groups, quick preparation.

• French press:

  • Advantages: Lots of control over strength, full-bodied flavor, easy cleaning.
  • Disadvantages: Requires some practice, fine coffee grounds can remain in the coffee.
  • Ideal for: At home, cozy atmosphere, those who like to experiment.

• Filter coffee:

  • Advantages: Clean taste, versatile, wide selection of filters and brewing guides.
  • Disadvantages: Requires a filter and a bit more time.
  • Ideal for: At home, for those who prefer a clear and clean taste.

• Espresso:

  • Advantages: Strong and concentrated flavor, basis for many coffee drinks.
  • Disadvantages: Requires an espresso machine, high temperatures.
  • Ideal for: Those who love espresso-based drinks.

When is which brewing method the right one?

• For on the go: The percolator is unbeatable thanks to its robustness and simplicity.
• For home: The French press or filter coffee offer a wider variety of taste experiences.
• For coffee lovers: Those who like to experiment will enjoy an espresso machine or a pour-over filter.

Which factors should you consider when choosing?

• Taste: Do you prefer a strong and intense coffee or a mild and clean one?
• Time: How much time do you have for brewing?
• Cleaning: How much effort do you want to put into cleaning?
• Equipment: What devices do you already have?

There isn’t one single best brewing method. Every coffee lover has their own preferences. Try different methods and find out which one tastes best to you.

Which percolator is the right one? Comparing the Petromax Perkomax models

The Petromax Perkomax models offer an excellent way to prepare coffee and tea in a traditional way. But which Perkomax suits your needs best? Let’s take a closer look at the two models – enamel and stainless steel:

Which Perkomax suits you?

• If you value... tradition, durability, and a rustic look, the enamel Perkomax is the right choice.
• If you’re looking for... a modern and versatile companion for home and on the go, the stainless steel Perkomax is the better option.

Summary of the main differences: