The right brewer will make a huge difference, whether you're looking to save money at coffee shops, limit your consumption of caffeine, or simply have a taste of gourmet coffee at home.
From single-serve specialty pods to family-sized carafes, there are many ways to make coffee. Find out about the different types and choose one that is right for you.Drip Coffee Makers
When you're looking forward to your morning cup of coffee, it can depend on what kind of machine you have. Different kinds of machines use different methods for brewing, and each method extracts the flavor of your selected blend in a different way. There's a wide range of options, ranging from single-cup brewers to drip coffee makers, and even French press coffee makers.
One of the most popular kinds of coffee makers is a drip-style model. They brew by heating water and pouring it over grounds to create an instant hot pot of coffee that you pour directly from the machine into your mug. They are best suited for those who want to enjoy traditional full-pot coffee, which is known to be more flavorful than instant coffees that are packaged.
To get the most flavor from your coffee, you need to heat the water to between 195 and 205 degrees Fahrenheit. Most less expensive models don't meet the mark, but premium drip coffee makers are able to provide a temperature that is closer to that of a pour over.
The water is heated by an element inside the coffee maker, and then it flows through a tubing mechanism which is either made of aluminum or plastic. This system is constructed with a one-way valve that allows the boiling to pass through however, it 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 houses your ground coffee and filter. The showerhead sprays hot water over the beans as it drips down. This creates the familiar gurgling sound that you hear in your kitchen. The process takes a time, but the final result is a deliciously hot pot of coffee that you can pour directly from the machine into your mug or thermos.
A drip-style coffeemaker is easy to operate and requires little interaction by the end user. It is easy to operate and ready to go when you turn on the power. Basic models can cost as just as low as $100. These coffee makers are durable, although the warranty on certain models may only last for one to five year.
Single Serve Coffee Makers
In a household with a lot of activity it might not be feasible for everyone to sit around and enjoy a cup of coffee simultaneously. A single-serve coffee maker allows everyone to make their own cup of coffee according to their timetable. It's as easy as placing in a coffee pod, or a pre-packaged K-Cup and pressing a button and grabbing the mug. Certain models also make hot cocoa and tea to make a variety, or fill travel cups.
These machines are easy to use and compact, taking up little space on your counter. They're usually less expensive than drip coffee makers and you'll often find deals online or at local stores. A single-cup brewer can be more expensive over the long run because you must purchase K-Cups and coffee pods.
You should consider investing in one with a filter that is removable and can be reused to make sustainable drinking. This will help you reduce the cost. Certain models come with a tall opening for large travel mugs, as well as dishwasher-safe parts. It is important to read your coffee maker's manual to figure out the frequency you should change the water filter.
Many coffee lovers want to avoid the waste that comes with paper filters. So, look for a filter that allows you to use a mesh filter, that is compatible with all grounds. Some also have an inbuilt reservoir that tells you when it's time to refill the water.
Cleaning single-serve coffee makers is an easy task as it can be done with a solution of white vinegar and water. Make sure you unplug the machine, and then remove the reservoir of water and coffee pod holder. Rinse the container thoroughly with warm, soapy tap water. If you own a Keurig maker or similar brand adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines for how often to change the water filter.
Most models have a small footprint, so they're great for smaller apartments and homes. Some models come with a drip tray built-in which means you don't have to keep separate tray on your counter. A lot of these models are with a beautiful silver finish that complements other kitchen appliances and fixtures.
Pour over coffee makersYou have many options if you want to upgrade your manual drip coffee maker (also called a pour over coffeemaker). The fancy technique might seem daunting, but it's much simpler than you imagine. It offers an abundance of customization to make your ideal cup of coffee. The best pour over makers are easy to clean and use do not require power sources, and are made from sturdy materials that hold heat well.
In contrast to electric drip coffee makers, pour overs usually comprise of one or two metal or ceramic parts and don't contain wires that could be damaged or clogged. They are less likely to require replacements or repairs as they age, and can be used for a long time. The sleek, minimalist design appeals to coffee enthusiasts and those who "Buy It For Life", who want to reduce waste from landfills.
There are several types of pour-overs available. The Chemex style however, is the most popular. It's made of non-porous Borosilicate glass which is a good choice for coffee due to the fact that it is durable and does not absorb odors and chemicals. This model requires an Chemex paper filtre which isn't the most affordable choice. It also takes longer to brew 8 cups than other models that were tested.
Melitta is another brand that makes an excellent pour over, with a simple, yet sturdy design and a broad variety of options for the coffee enthusiast. The Classic Pour Over is their most affordable model, and it comes with a stainless-steel mesh filter, which eliminates the requirement for disposable paper filters. It also uses a thermal carafe to keep the water warm. It also comes with an adjustable flow rate, allowing you to control how fast the water flows over the grounds.
Pour overs typically require a medium grind size that is the most common and easiest to find pre-ground in supermarkets. However, some brands might recommend a more coarse or fine grind for their products, so make sure to read the specifications prior to purchasing.
Siphon Brewers
A siphon coffee maker is a gorgeous and functional coffee maker. It doubles as a drink-making device and is a great choice for those who wish to impress their guests. It is elegant and sleek, so it would look great in any kitchen. This kind of coffee maker served coffee to guests during extravagant celebrations and lavish meals. This could be the reason behind its appealing appearance.
A siphon coffee maker uses a unique method of making coffee by using vacuums and water vapors to create the drink. It is also known as the immersion style brewing and is believed to be among the most sophisticated brewing methods. It produces a cup of coffee with the best balance of flavor among all other methods of brewing.
The device is comprised of two glass vessels that are connected by tubes. The lower vessel is filled with water, while the top vessel is filled with coffee beans. The device is placed over the source of heat, such as a gas burner or electric heater and then steam begins to rise from the lower chamber. The coffee that has been ground can be added to the upper chamber and the device is secured. After the coffee has been made, it is removed from the source of heat and allowed to cool before being served.
It's a good idea test the siphon coffee maker prior to you begin using it. Make sure you heat water and then run it over the grounds. This will ensure that the device is operating well and doesn't clog or damage the grounds in any way. It is also crucial to choose the right amount of grounds in order to avoid your beverage tasting bitter or watery.
To get the most flavor out of your siphon brewer, it's essential to grind your coffee beans to a medium-fine texture. This can be done with the burr grinder or a manual hand grinder, depending on your preference. Once the grounds are ready, they need to be added into the upper chamber of your coffeee maker and stirred gently with bamboo paddle or a spoon. Make sure that the grounds are moist at all times in order to stop them from drying and losing their flavor.
