A percolator is a coffee brewing device that forces hot water up through the grounds and into a pot or carafe. The word percolate means to filter or seep through a substance.
Percolators come in many different sizes, from small single-serving models to large 10-cup pots. They can be made of glass, metal or plastic, and they have either electric or stovetop heating elements. Some models have an automatic shutoff feature, while others do not.
To use a percolator, first add cold water to the chamber below the basket holding the coffee grounds. Be sure not to overfill; there should only be enough water to reach just below the level of the valve stem. Next, insert the funnel into the top of the percolator and add your coffee grounds to the basket. Replace the lid and plug in the percolator if it is electric, or place it on a burner set to medium heat if it is stovetop model.
Once brewing has begun, you will see steam and then hot water begin to drip down into the pot or carafe below. When brew time is complete (usually 4-5 minutes for electric models, 6-8 minutes for stovetop), remove from heat and serve immediately. Enjoy!