What does "cold brew" refer to in coffee preparation?

"Cold brew" refers to the method of preparing coffee by steeping coarsely ground coffee beans in cold water for an extended period, typically 12 to 24 hours. This process extracts flavors from the coffee without the bitterness that can come from hot brewing methods. In contrast to traditional brewing methods that use heat, cold brewing yields a smoother, less acidic coffee concentrate that can be diluted with water, milk, or served over ice.

The extended steeping in cold water allows for the gradual extraction of flavors, resulting in a coffee that retains the natural sweetness of the beans. This technique has gained popularity for those seeking a refreshing coffee option, especially during warmer months. The other options describe different coffee preparation methods that do not align with the principles of cold brewing.