What are the steps to making cold brew coffee?

The process of making cold brew coffee involves a specific technique that emphasizes a longer steeping period with coarsely ground coffee and cold water. The correct approach is to start with a coarse grind of coffee beans. This is crucial because a finer grind can lead to over-extraction, resulting in a bitter taste.

Once the coffee is coarsely ground, it is steeped in cold water for an extended period, typically ranging from 12 to 24 hours. This long infusion in cold water extracts the flavors from the coffee beans in a smooth and balanced manner without the acidity or bitterness often associated with hot brewing methods.

After the steeping period, the mixture is then strained to separate the coffee grounds from the liquid, resulting in a cold brew concentrate that can be served over ice or diluted with water or milk, depending on personal preference. This method not only highlights the coffee's natural sweetness but also allows you to enjoy a refreshing beverage that is less harsh than traditional brewed coffee.

The other methods outlined in the incorrect options suggest using hot water or boiling, which are not suitable for cold brew preparation, and also do not allow for the long steeping time required to develop the desired flavors in a cold brew.