Like animal-based gelatin, the agar is dissolved in the liquid in a small saucepan over medium-high heat, brought to a boil and then simmered until slightly thickened, about 5-7 minutes. It is then chilled in the refrigerator until set and typically enjoyed cold.
You can use coffee grounds in your garden or potted plants! The three main advantages to gardening with coffee grounds is that it attracts earthworms, brings organic material to the dirt and the microorganisms in the grounds are beneficial to aid the growth of the plants. Image Credit: Getty Images.
If taste is your concern, your best bet is to store coffee in an airtight container somewhere cool, dry, and dark. Stored this way, ground coffee can be used for a few months past its expiration date, whole bean for up to nine months, and instant coffee for up to twenty years. You can also store coffee in the freezer, which greatly extends its shelf life (anywhere from one to three years for whole bean and ground coffee, and practically indefinitely for instant).