Different Kinds of Coffee Makers
Whether you're looking to cut down on coffee shop expenses, wish to cut down on your caffeine intake or simply want to enjoy a gourmet taste at home, the right brewer can make a huge difference.
There are a variety of ways to brew, from single-serve pods, to large carafes. Find out about the different types and select the one that's right for you.
Drip Coffee Makers
When it comes to your morning cup of coffee, many things will depend on the machine you own. Different machines employ different methods of brewing, and each method extracts flavors differently. There are a variety of options, ranging from single-cup brewers, drip coffee makers to French press coffee makers.
A drip-style coffee maker is one of the most well-known models. They brew coffee by heating water before pouring it over the ground to create an instant hot pot of coffee that you pour directly from the machine into your cup. These machines are great for those who prefer the traditional full-pot brewed that has a more flavorful taste than instant coffee.
To get the most flavor from your coffee, you must heat the water to between 195 and 205 degrees Fahrenheit. Many cheaper models fall short of the mark, however top drip coffee makers can achieve a temperature close to that of a pour over.
The water is heated by an element inside the coffee maker, and then it is then pumped through a tubing system that is constructed of aluminum or plastic. The system is usually constructed with a one-way valve which allows the boiling water to flow through but prevents it from flowing back into the bucket or out of the coffee maker.
Once the water has been filled into the reservoir the water will drip down to the compartment that contains the coffee ground and filter. As it drips down, the showerhead sprays the hot water on the beans to create the gurgling sound that you're familiar with in your kitchen. This process may take some time but you'll end with a delicious cup of coffee. You can pour it straight from the machine in your mug or thermos.
A drip-style coffeemaker is simple to use and requires only minimal input by the end user. It's a breeze to use and is typically ready to go when you turn on the power. Basic models can be as low as $100. These coffee makers are durable, although the warranty on certain models may be limited to a single years.
Single Serve Coffee Makers
In a household with a lot going on it's impossible for everyone to have coffee at the same time. With a single-serve coffee maker, everyone can make their own cup of coffee according to their own schedule. It's just a matter of placing a K-Cup or pod by pressing a button and then consuming a cup. With some models, you can also make hot cocoa and tea for variety or to fill travel cups.
These machines are small and easy to use, taking up very little space on the countertop. They are usually cheaper than a drip coffee maker, and you can often find discounts online or in local stores. However, a single-cup maker can be costly in the long run as you need to continually purchase K-Cups or coffee pods.
Look into an item with a filter that is removable and can be reused to make sustainable making. This will help you offset the cost. Certain models come with a tall opening for large travel mugs, as well as dishwasher-safe parts. It's essential to read your coffee maker's manual to figure out the frequency you should change the water filter.
Many coffee drinkers want to eliminate the waste produced by paper filters. Instead look for models which allow mesh filters that can be used with all grounds. Certain models come with an inbuilt reservoir that will alert you when it is time to replenish the water.
Cleaning a single-serve coffee maker is relatively simple and is done with a solution of white vinegar and water. Unplug the machine and take off the coffee pod holder and water reservoir. Thoroughly rinse the container with soapy water that is warm and warm. If you own a Keurig device or a similar model adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines for the frequency of changing the water filter.
The majority of models have a compact footprint, so they're great for apartments and homes with smaller spaces. Some models have a drip tray built in which means you don't have to keep an additional tray on your counter. These models are available in a silver-colored finish to be a perfect match with other kitchen appliances.
Pour Over Coffee Makers
If you're looking to upgrade your pour over coffee maker (also known as a manual drip coffee maker) you have many choices. The fancy technique might seem daunting, but it's more accessible than you imagine and allows many different options to create your ideal cup of coffee. The best pour-over makers are easy to use and clean and don't require a power source, and are constructed from durable materials that retain heat well.
In contrast to electric drip coffee makers Pour overs typically comprise just two or three metal or ceramic parts and don't contain wires that can break or get clogged. They are less likely to require replacements or repairs as they age, and are able to be used for many decades. They also have a minimalist elegant design that appeals to both coffee lovers and the "Buy It For Life" crowd who like to reduce their landfill waste.
There are many kinds of pour-overs available. The Chemex style, however, is the most well-known. It's made from non-porous Borosilicate glass which is a good option for coffee as it's tough and does not absorb odors or chemicals. This particular model requires a special Chemex filter made of paper. It isn't cheap, and it takes longer to brew eight cups than other models that have been tested.
Melitta is another brand that produces an excellent pour over with a simple but sturdy design and a wide range of options for the coffee lover. The Classic Pour Over is their most affordable model, and comes with a stainless steel mesh filter which removes the need for disposable paper filters. It uses an insulated water carafe with a thermal element that keeps the water warm. The flow rate can be adjusted to control the speed at which the water is poured onto the ground.
Most pour-overs require a medium size grind, which is the most popular and easily found in grocery stores. Certain brands may recommend grinding that is coarser or more fine and therefore, make sure you check the specifications prior to purchase.
Siphon Brewers
A siphon coffee maker is a gorgeous and practical coffee maker. It is an excellent option for those looking to impress their guests. It's sleek and elegant, so it will look stunning in any kitchen. During ancient celebrations and sumptuous banquets, this coffee maker was used to serve coffee to guests. This could be the reason for its appealing appearance.
Siphon coffee makers use an innovative method of making coffee by using vacuums and water vapors to make the drink. It is also known as the immersion style brewing and is believed to be among the most sophisticated methods of brewing. It produces the perfect cup of coffee that has the best balance of flavor compared to other brewing methods.
The device is made up of two glass vessels connected via tubes. The lower one holds water, while the upper is filled with coffee beans ground to a fine powder. The device is positioned over a heat source such as an electric or gas heater and then the steam begins rising from the lower chamber. The pre-ground coffee can then be added to the upper chamber and the device is securely secured. After the coffee is brewed, the coffee is removed from the heat and allowed to cool before serving.
Before using your siphon coffee maker it's a good idea to test the device by heating water, then running it over the grounds. This will ensure that the device works properly and will not clog or otherwise damage the grounds. It is also important to choose the right amount of grounds to avoid your beverage tasting bitter or watery.
To get the best flavor from your siphon brewer it is important to grind your coffee beans to a medium-fine consistency. This can be accomplished using either a burr grinder 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 with a spoon or bamboo paddle. Keep the grounds moist at all times to prevent them from drying out and losing their taste.