Different Kinds of Coffee Makers
The right brewer will make a huge difference, whether you're trying to save money at coffee shops, cut down on your consumption of caffeine, or simply have a taste of gourmet coffee at home.
There are many ways to brew coffee, from single-serve pods to huge carafes. Find out about the different types and select one that is right for you.
Drip Coffee Makers
What kind of machine you use will have a significant impact on the flavor of your morning coffee. Different kinds of machines use different methods for brewing, and each method extracts the flavor of your selected blend differently. There are a myriad of options such as single-cup brewers, drip coffee makers and even French press machines.
A drip-style coffee maker is among of the most well-known models. These brew by heating water before pouring it over the grounds to create hot coffee that you can pour directly from the machine into your mug. They are perfect for those who prefer to enjoy traditional full-pot coffee, which tends to be more flavorful than prepackaged instant coffee.
In order to get the most flavor out of your ground coffee, it's important that the water is heated to between 195 and 205 degrees Fahrenheit. Many less expensive models don't meet the mark, but premium drip coffee makers are able to achieve a temperature close to the temperature of a pour-over.
The water is heated by an element inside the coffee maker, and then it passes through a tubing system which is either made of plastic or aluminum. This system is constructed with a single-way valve that allows the boiling to enter, but prevents the water from flowing back out into the bucket or the coffee maker.
Once the water is in the reservoir, it starts to drip down into a compartment that contains your ground coffee and filter. As it drips down the showerhead sprays hot water over the beans, creating the gurgling sound that you're familiar with in your kitchen. The process can take a while but you'll end with a delicious cup of coffee. You can pour it straight out of the machine into your mug or thermos.
A drip-style coffeemaker is simple to use, and requires only minimal input from the user. It's easy to use and ready to go as soon as you switch on the power. This type of coffee maker can also be quite affordable, with basic models priced at less than $100. They're also fairly robust, even though the warranty on certain models will only last for one to five years.
Single Serve Coffee Makers
In a busy home, it is not always possible for everyone to drink from a pot at the same time. With a single-serve coffee maker, everyone can make their own cup of coffee according to their schedule. It's as simple as plopping in a coffee pod, or a pre-packaged K-Cup, pushing a button and grabbing an entire cup. With certain models, you can make hot cocoa and tea to make a variety or fill travel mugs.
They are small and simple to use, taking up very little space on the countertop. They're generally cheaper than a drip coffee maker and you'll often find bargains online or at local stores. A one-cup brewer is more expensive in the long run, since you have to buy coffee pods and K-Cups.
Consider investing in an item with a removable filter that can be reused for sustainable making. This will help you offset the cost. Certain models have an opening large enough to fit large travel mugs, and parts that are dishwasher safe. It's important to read the coffee maker's manual to figure out how often you need to change the water filter.
The majority of coffee drinkers are trying to eliminate the waste generated by paper filters. Instead look for models that allow you to use mesh filters that can be used with a variety of grounds. Some models have an inbuilt reservoir which will notify you when it is time to refill the water.
Cleaning a single-serve coffee maker is an easy task as it is done with a solution of white vinegar and water. Make sure you unplug the machine and remove the reservoir of water and coffee pod holder. Rinse the container thoroughly using warm soapy tap water. If you have Keurig or a similar model of machine, make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding how often to replace the water filter.
They are ideal for apartments and homes with smaller footprints. Some models have a drip tray built in, so you don't need to keep a separate tray on your counter. A lot of these models are with a beautiful silver finish that matches other kitchen appliances and fixtures.
Pour Over Coffee Makers
You have many options for upgrading your manual drip coffee maker (also known as a pour-over coffeemaker). The fancy technique might seem intimidating, however it is far simpler than you think. It permits a great deal of customization in order to get the perfect cup of coffee. The best pour-over makers are simple to clean and use, don't require a power source and are made from durable materials that retain heat well.
Pour-overs aren't like drip coffee makers with electric drips. They usually contain one or two metal or ceramic parts and there are no wires that could break or clog. This makes them much less likely to require repairs or replacements in the future and they can last for a long time without issue. The sleek, minimalist design appeals to both coffee enthusiasts and those who "Buy It For Life", who want to reduce waste from landfills.
There are several types of pour-overs that are available. The Chemex style however, is the most well-known. It is constructed of non-porous Borosilicate Glass that is tough and doesn't absorb chemical odors or odors. This particular model requires a specific Chemex filter made of paper, which isn't cheap and takes longer to make eight cups than the majority of models tested.
Melitta also makes a great pour-over. It is a simple but sturdy design, and provides various options for coffee drinkers. Their most affordable model is the Classic Pour Over, which is equipped with an stainless steel mesh filter that eliminates the need for disposable paper filters. It is equipped with an insulated water carafe with a thermal element that keeps the water warm. The flow rate can be adjusted so you can determine the speed at which the water is poured over the grounds.
Pour overs typically require a medium grind size, which is the most popular and easiest to find pre-ground in grocery stores. Certain brands may recommend grinding that is coarser or more fine however, so make sure to check the specifications prior to purchase.
Siphon Brewers
A siphon coffee maker is a stunning and functional coffee maker. It is a fantastic option for those who want to impress their guests. It is sleek and elegant, so it would look great in any kitchen. When it was time for celebrations in the past and lavish banquets, this coffee maker was used to serve coffee to guests. This could be the reason for its appealing appearance.
Siphon coffeemakers use an innovative method of making coffee using water vapors. It is also known as the immersion style brewing and it is considered to be one of the most sophisticated brewing methods. This is because it creates an intensely flavored cup coffee that has the most perfect balance of flavors among other brewing methods.
The device is made up of two glass vessels joined by a tube. The lower vessel holds water while the top one is filled with ground coffee beans. The device is placed on top of a heat source such as an electric or gas heater, and the steam begins rising from the lower chamber. The coffee that has been ground can be added to the upper chamber, and the device is secured tightly. Once the coffee has been prepared, it is taken from the heat source and allowed to cool down before being served.
It's a good idea test the siphon coffee maker prior to you start using it. Warm some water, and then run some over the grounds. This will make sure that the device is operating properly and won't block the grounds or harm them in any other way. Also, it is important to use the right amount of grounds so that your beverage doesn't taste bitter or muddy.
To get the best flavor from your siphon brewer it is crucial to grind your coffee beans to a medium-fine consistency. You can use a burr or manual hand grinder, based on your preference. After the ground is ready, they need to be added into the upper chamber of your coffeee maker and stirred gently using a spoon or bamboo paddle. It is important to keep the grounds covered with water in order to keep them from drying out and losing their flavor.