If you're looking for ways to cut back on the cost of coffee, to limit your caffeine intake or simply enjoy the taste of gourmet at home, the perfect brewer can make all the difference.
From single-serve specialty pods to large-sized carafes, there's a myriad of ways to brew. Learn about the various types and choose one that is right for you.
Drip Coffee Makers
When you're looking forward to your morning cup of coffee, many things will depend on what kind of machine you have. Different machines use different methods of brewing and each method produces different flavors. There's a wide range of options, ranging from single-cup brewers, drip coffee makers, and even French press coffee makers.
One of the most sought-after kinds of coffee maker is a drip-style model. These brew by heating water before pouring it over the grounds to create a hot pot of coffee that can be poured directly from the machine into your mug. These machines are ideal for those who prefer the traditional full-pot brewed that has a more flavorful taste than instant coffee.
In order to get the most flavor from your ground coffee, it is essential that the water is heated between 195 and 205 degrees Fahrenheit. The majority of smaller models don't quite meet the mark, but high-end drip coffee makers are able to deliver a temperature closer to the temperature of a pour-over.
The water is heated by an element within the coffee maker, and it flows through a tubing mechanism that is constructed of aluminum or plastic. The system is built with a single-way valve that allows the boiling to enter however it stops the water from flowing out into the bucket or coffee maker.
Once the water is put into the reservoir, the water will drip down to the container that contains the ground coffee and filter. The showerhead sprays hot water over the beans as it drips down. This creates the familiar gurgling noise you hear in your kitchen. The process can take some time, but you'll end up with a delicious pot of coffee. You can pour it straight from the machine in your thermos or mug.
A drip-style coffeemaker is simple to operate and requires only minimal input by the end user. It is easy to operate and ready to go when you switch on the power. Basic models can be as low as $100. They are also quite durable, although the warranty on certain models will only last for one to five years.
Single Serve Coffee Makers
In a household with a lot of activity, it may not be feasible for all family members to sit around and sip a cup of coffee simultaneously. A single-serve coffee maker allows everyone to make their own coffee according to their schedule. It's as easy as placing into a coffee pod or a pre-packaged K-Cup by pressing a button and grabbing a mugful. Some models can also make hot cocoa and tea to provide variety, or fill travel cups.
They are small and easy to operate, taking up little space on the countertop. They're generally less expensive than a drip coffee maker, and you can often find bargains online or at local stores. However, a single-cup maker can be expensive in the long run because you will need to buy coffee pods or K-Cups.
Look into one equipped with a filter that can be reused for sustainable drinking. This will help you offset the cost. Some models have tall openings for large travel mugs, as well as dishwasher-safe components. You should read the manual for your coffee maker to learn when you should change the water filter.
The majority of coffee drinkers are trying to avoid the waste generated by paper filters. Instead look for models that permit mesh filters that can be used with a variety of grounds. Some also have a built-in reservoir that alerts you when it's time to refill the water.
Cleaning single-serve coffee makers is relatively simple as it can be done using a solution of white vinegar and water. Unplug the machine, and remove the coffee pod holder and water reservoir. Rinse the container thoroughly using warm soapy tap water. If you own a Keurig maker or similar brand, follow the manufacturer's instructions for how often to change the water filter.
Most models have a small footprint, so they're great for smaller apartments and homes. Some even have an integrated drip tray, eliminating the necessity of a separate drip tray for your kitchen counter. A majority of these models come with a beautiful silver finish that complements other kitchen appliances and fixtures.
Pour Over Coffee Makers
If you're looking to upgrade your pour over coffee maker (also known as a manual drip coffeemaker) you have many choices. The fancy technique might seem intimidating, but it's simpler than you think and allows many different options to create your ideal cup of coffee. The best pour-over makers are simple to use and clean do not require a power source, and are constructed from sturdy materials that hold heat well.
Pour-overs aren't like drip coffee makers that are electric. They typically have a couple of metal or ceramic components and there are no wires that could break or block. This makes them much less likely to require repairs or replacements over the course of time and can be used for decades without issues. The sleek, minimalist design appeals to both coffee lovers and those who "Buy It For Life" and want to reduce the amount of waste that goes into landfills.
There are several varieties of pour overs on the market, however the Chemex style is probably the most popular. It is made of non-porous Borosilicate Glass which is strong and doesn't absorb odors or chemical. This particular model requires a special Chemex filter made of paper. It isn't cheap, and it takes longer to make eight cups than the majority of models that have been tested.
Melitta also makes a great pour over. It is a simple but sturdy design, and provides various options for coffee enthusiasts. The Classic Pour Over is their most affordable model, and it comes with a stainless steel mesh filter that eliminates the requirement for disposable paper filters. It also has a thermal carafe to keep the water warm and can be adjusted in flow rate that allows you to regulate the speed at which water is circulating over the ground.
Most pour-overs require a medium size grind, which is the most common and easy to find in grocery stores. However, some brands may suggest a coarser or fine grind for their products, so make certain to verify the specifications before buying.
Siphon Brewers
With its attractive and practical design, a siphon coffee maker is one of the most impressive coffee-making devices. It is a great option for those looking to impress their guests. It is elegant and stylish, which means it would look great in any kitchen. This kind of coffee maker served coffee to guests at ancient celebrations and sumptuous feasts. This is probably the reason for why this device has an attractive appearance.
Siphon coffee makers use a unique method to make coffee using water vapors and vacuums to create the drink. It is also called the immersion method of brewing, and is considered one of the most sophisticated methods. It produces a cup of coffee that has the highest level of flavor among all other methods of brewing.
The device is made up of two glass vessels that are connected by tubes. The lower one holds water while the upper one is filled with coffee beans ground to a fine powder. The device is set on a heating source, such as an electric or gas heater. When the lower chamber begins to heat up the device is set up. After that, the ground coffee is added into the upper chamber and then secured tightly. After the coffee has been prepared, it is taken from the source of heat and allowed to cool down before serving.
Before you use your siphon coffee maker it's a good idea to test the equipment by heating water before running it over the grounds. This will ensure that the device is operating correctly and won't block or otherwise damage the grounds. Also, it is important to use the correct amount of grounds to ensure that your beverage doesn't taste bitter or muddy.
To get the most flavor out of your siphon brewer it is important that you grind your coffee beans into a medium-coarse texture. You can make use of a burr or a manual hand grinder depending on your preference. After the ground is prepared, they should be added to the upper chamber of your coffeee maker and stirred gently with a spoon or bamboo paddle. Keep the grounds wet at all times in order to prevent them from drying and losing their flavor.
