One of the most popular pour-over coffee brewing methods today is the Kalita Wave, a Japanese-designed coffee maker taking the coffee world by storm. Known for its signature wave-shaped filters and flat-bottomed dripper, the Kalita Wave ensures consistent extraction and even water flow, delivering a clean, flavorful cup every time. Whether you’re a coffee newbie or a seasoned enthusiast, this innovative brewer is a game-changer for your morning routine.
In this guide, we’ll explore the Kalita Wave’s features, benefits, and a detailed step-by-step process to brew the perfect cup of coffee at home.
Essential Equipment for Kalita Wave Brewing
- Kalita Wave dripper (185 or 155 size, depending on your brew volume)
- Kalita Wave paper filters
- Gooseneck kettle (for precise pouring)
- Digital scale
- Fresh water
- Timer
- Your favorite coffee mug
- Burr grinder (optional but recommended)
How to Brew Coffee with a Kalita Wave: Step-by-Step
Ready to master the Kalita Wave? Here’s how to brew a rich, balanced cup of pour-over coffee with this unique dripper.
Step 1: Heat Water and Rinse the Filter
Heat 250g of water in your kettle to 195–205°F (about 30 seconds off the boil if you don’t have a thermometer). Place a Kalita Wave filter in the dripper, set it over your mug or server, and pour hot water over the filter to rinse it. This removes any papery taste and preheats the setup. Discard the rinse water from the mug.
Tip: Avoid pouring directly on the filter’s edges to maintain its wave shape.
Step 2: Weigh Your Coffee
Set your scale to zero with the dripper in place, then measure 15g of coffee beans. This recipe uses a 15:1 water-to-coffee ratio (250g water to 15g coffee), but adjust to taste—more coffee for a stronger brew, less for a milder one. Account for a gram or two lost in the grinder.
Step 3: Grind Your Coffee
Grind your beans to a medium-coarse consistency—think slightly finer than coarse sea salt—using a burr grinder for uniformity. Add the 15g of ground coffee to the rinsed filter, then gently tap the dripper to level the coffee bed for even water distribution.
Step 4: Pour Water and Brew
Start your timer. Pour 25g of water (just enough to saturate the grounds) in slow, concentric circles, then let it bloom for 30 seconds. This bloom phase releases gases and enhances flavor extraction.
- At 30 seconds: Add 75g of water in steady circles, keeping the pour within the coffee bed (not the filter sides).
- At 60 seconds: Pour another 75g of water, maintaining the same level of slurry.
- At 90 seconds: Add the final 75g (totaling 250g). Give the dripper a gentle stir if needed.
Let the coffee drip through completely. Total brew time should be around 3.5–4 minutes. A flat coffee bed post-brew signals success. If it drains too fast, grind finer next time; if too slow, go coarser.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the dripper, discard the filter, and pour your freshly brewed coffee into your favorite mug. Sip and savor the fruits of your labor!
Brewing Summary
- Coffee: 15g, medium-coarse grind
- Water: 250g at 195–205°F (30 seconds off boil)
- Rinse filter with hot water
- Bloom: 25g water for 30 seconds
- Pulse pours: 75g at 30s, 60s, and 90s
- Total brew time: ~3.5–4 minutes
Tips for Better Kalita Wave Brewing
Elevate your Kalita Wave experience with these pro tips:
- Rinse Thoroughly: Skipping this step can leave a papery taste in your coffee.
- Freshness Matters: Use freshly roasted beans (within 2–4 weeks of roasting) for optimal flavor.
- Grind Size: Aim for a medium-coarse grind—too fine clogs the filter, too coarse speeds up the drip.
- Water Quality: Use clean, filtered water you’d drink on its own.
- Ratio Flexibility: Stick to 1:15 (coffee:water) as a baseline, but experiment to suit your palate.
- Temperature Tweaks: Play with 195–205°F to find your sweet spot—hotter for lighter roasts, cooler for darker ones.
Why Choose the Kalita Wave?
The Kalita Wave’s flat-bottom design and wave filters regulate water flow, preventing channeling and ensuring even saturation. Its three small drainage holes maintain a steady brew pace, while the dripper’s thick walls insulate your coffee, keeping it warm. The result? A bold yet balanced cup that highlights your coffee’s natural flavors—perfect for those who love a robust pour-over.
Final Thoughts
The Kalita Wave isn’t just a coffee maker—it’s a tool for precision and consistency. Its thoughtful design delivers a stronger, more concentrated brew compared to conical drippers like the Hario V60, making it a favorite among coffee aficionados. Whether you’re brewing for yourself or impressing guests, this Japanese pour-over method is worth mastering.