What is cowboy coffee, and how do you make it?

As someone who's camped their way through caffeine withdrawal, I can tell you that cowboy coffee is both a blessing and a potential curse. In an era where it's never been better to be a coffee lover, with gadgets galore and artisanal beans at our fingertips, there's something charmingly rustic about brewing coffee like a frontier explorer.

Sure, you can learn how to make a frappe in 3 simple steps , or you can make a nutrient coffee at home that's so healthy it practically cancels out your campfire s'mores. But out in the wild, where your barista is a campfire and your milk frother is a stick, cowboy coffee reigns supreme — for better or worse.

Let's dive into the art of cowboy coffee and how to ensure you're sipping satisfaction rather than spitting out grounds.

What is cowboy coffee?

Cowboy coffee is a traditional method of brewing coffee without fancy equipment, typically made over a campfire — or one of the best fire pits . It's named after the cowboys of the Old West who brewed their coffee this way on cattle drives.

The technique involves brewing coarsely ground coffee directly in a pot of hot water , then allowing the grounds to settle before pouring. While it might sound simple, there's an art to making a smooth, rich cup of cowboy coffee without ending up with a mouthful of grounds.

1. Boil the water

Add water to your pot and bring it to a boil over your campfire or heat source.

2. Let the water cool slightly

Once boiling, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit for 30 second s. This brings the water temperature down to about 200°F, ideal for brewing.

3. Add the coffee grounds

Add 2 tablespoons of finely ground coffee for every 8 ounces of water . A great camping tip is to measure your pot and spoon capacities before your trip for accurate ratios.

4. Stir the brew

Stir the grounds into the water to ensure they're fully saturated. Allow the coffee to brew for 2 minutes, then stir again . Let it sit for another 2 minutes, bringing the total brew time to 4 minutes .

5. Enjoy your cowboy coffee!

Sprinkle a little cold water on top of the brew . This helps the grounds settle to the bottom of the pot. Slowly pour the coffee into your cup , being careful to keep the grounds at the bottom of the pot. Serve and enjoy!

Remember, timing is crucial for the best flavor. Serve immediately after brewing to avoid over-extraction and bitterness. With practice, you'll be brewing campfire coffee like a true cowboy in no time.

Ready to elevate your coffee game beyond the campfire? Discover how to make espresso like a barista , find the best coffee maker , or learn how to make iced coffee in 4 simple steps.