In which brewing method is coffee extracted using pressure?

The correct answer is espresso. This brewing method is characterized by its use of pressure to extract coffee. In the espresso-making process, hot water is forced through finely-ground coffee at high pressure, typically around 9 bars or more. This process results in a concentrated shot of coffee that has a rich flavor and a distinctive crema on top, which is a layer of foam that forms during extraction.

The espresso method stands out because its pressure extraction not only optimizes the flavor compounds in the coffee beans but also creates the unique texture and rich mouthfeel associated with this type of coffee. The use of pressure is critical in differentiating espresso from other brewing methods, which typically rely on gravity or steeping.

Other methods, like cold brew, French press, and Turkish coffee, do not use pressure in their extraction processes. Cold brew relies on steeping coffee grounds in cold water over an extended period to extract flavors. The French press involves steeping coffee grounds in boiling water before pressing them down with a plunger, but again, it does not use pressure in the same way that an espresso machine does. Turkish coffee utilizes finely ground coffee simmered with water, resulting in a strong brew but without pressure-based extraction.