Different Kinds of Coffee Makers
If you're looking to reduce your coffee shop spending, want to reduce your intake of caffeine or simply enjoy the taste of gourmet at home, the perfect maker can make all the difference.
From single-serve specialty pods, to family-sized carafes, there are a variety of ways to make household coffee machines. Find out about the different kinds and pick one that is right for you.
Drip Coffee Makers
When you're brewing your morning cup of coffee, many things will depend on the machine you're using. Different kinds of machines use different methods for brewing and extracting the flavor of your selected blend in a different manner. You can find a range of options, ranging from single-cup brewers to drip coffee makers and even French press coffee makers.
A drip-style coffee maker is among of the most popular models. They brew coffee by heating water and pouring it over the grounds to create an instant hot pot of coffee that you can pour directly from the machine into your cup. These machines are ideal for those who prefer traditional full-pot brewed that is more flavorful than instant coffee.
To get the best flavor out of your coffee, you need to heat the water to 195 and 205 degrees Fahrenheit. Most less expensive models don't meet the mark, while top drip coffee makers can deliver a temperature closer to the temperature of a pour-over.
The water is heated within the coffee maker by an element, then it is pumped through a tube that is constructed of aluminum or plastic. The system is usually constructed with a one-way valve which allows the boiling water to enter but stops it from flowing back into the bucket or out of the coffee maker.
Once the water is filled into the reservoir the water will drip down to the container which houses the coffee ground and filter. The showerhead sprays hot water over the beans as it drips down. This causes the familiar gurgling noise you hear in your kitchen. This process can take a time, but the end result is a deliciously brewed cup of coffee that you can pour directly from the machine into your thermos or mug.
The advantage of a drip-style coffee maker is that it's easy to use and requires little interaction from the user. It's a breeze to use and is typically ready to go the moment you switch on the power. This kind of coffee maker can also be quite affordable, with basic models costing less than $100. These coffee makers are also sturdy, but the warranty on certain models may only last for one to five year.
Single Serve Coffee Makers
In a busy home it's not always feasible for everyone to enjoy the same cup at the same time. A single-serve coffee maker allows everyone to make their own cup of coffee according to their timetable. It's just a matter of putting in a K-Cup or pod by pressing a button and getting a mugful. Some models can also make tea and hot cocoa to make a variety, or fill travel cups.
These machines are simple to use and compact, taking up only a little space on your counter. They are less expensive than drip machines, and typically in local or online stores. However, a single-cup maker can be costly in the long run because you will need to purchase coffee pods or K-Cups.
To help offset this expense you should consider purchasing models that will accept ground coffee and comes with a removable reusable filter for sustainable making. Some models have tall openings for large travel mugs, as well as dishwasher-safe components. It is important to read your coffee maker's manual to determine how often you need to change the water filter.
Most coffee lovers are looking to avoid the waste produced by paper filters. Instead look for filters that permit mesh filters that can be used with a variety of grounds. Some models come with a built in reservoir that will notify you when it is time to refill the water.
Cleaning a single-serve coffee maker is a fairly quick process as it can be done with a solution of white vinegar and water. Be sure to disconnect the machine and take out the reservoir for water and the coffee pod holder. Rinse the container thoroughly with warm soapy tap water. If you own Keurig or a similar model of machine, make sure to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer regarding how often to replace 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 an additional tray on your counter. Many of these models come with a silver-colored finish that complements other kitchen appliances and fixtures.
Pour Over Coffee Makers
You have many options when you're looking to upgrade your manual drip coffee maker (also known as a pour over coffeemaker). The fancy technique may seem intimidating, but it's much simpler than you imagine. It allows for a great deal of customization to create the perfect cup of coffee. The top pour-over makers are simple to clean and operate, don't need an energy source and are constructed of durable materials that can hold heat.
Unlike electric drip coffee makers Pour overs typically comprise just one or two ceramic or metal parts and don't have any wires that could break or become blocked. 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 lovers as well as those who "Buy It For Life", who want to reduce waste from landfills.
There are a few different kinds of pour-overs available on the market, but the Chemex style is the most well-known. It is made of non-porous Borosilicate Glass which is strong and does not absorb odors or chemical. This particular model requires a Chemex filter made of paper. It isn't the most affordable option, and it takes longer to make eight cups than most models tested.
Melitta is another brand that makes an excellent pour-over, with a simple yet robust design and a vast range of options for coffee lovers. The Classic Pour Over is their most affordable model, and it includes 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 also be adjusted to determine the speed at which the water is poured over ground.
Most pour overs require a medium grind size, which is the most commonly used and easy to find in grocery stores. Some brands may recommend grinding that is coarser or more fine, so check the product specifications prior to purchase.
Siphon Brewers
A siphon coffee maker is a gorgeous and practical coffee maker. It serves as a tool for making drinks and is a fantastic option for those looking to impress their guests. It's elegant and sleek, so it will look stunning in any kitchen. This kind of coffee maker served guests coffee during ancient celebrations and sumptuous feasts. This could be the reason for why this device has a stylish appearance.
Siphon coffee makers use a unique method of making coffee by using water vapors and vacuums to make the drink. It is also known as the brewing style that is immersion and it is considered to be among the most sophisticated brewing methods. This is due to the fact that it makes an intensely flavorful cup of coffee that has the best combination of flavors compared to other brewing techniques.
The device is made up of two glass vessels connected by tubes. The lower vessel is filled with water, and the upper vessel is filled with coffee beans. The device is positioned on a source of heat, such as an electric or gas stove heater. When the lower chamber starts to steam up it is installed. The coffee that has been ground can be added to the upper chamber, and the device is secured. Once the coffee has been prepared, it is taken from the heat source and allowed to cool before serving.
It's a great idea to test your siphon coffee maker before you begin using it. Make sure you heat water and then run some over the grounds. This will ensure that the device functions correctly and won't block or damage the grounds in any way. It is also important to choose the right amount of grounds to ensure that your beverage does not taste bitter or watery.
To get the most flavor out of your siphon brewer, it is crucial to grind your coffee beans into an extremely fine texture. This can be done using a burr grinder or a manual hand grinder, based on your preference. Once the grounds are ready, they need to be added to the upper chamber of your coffee maker and gently stirred with bamboo paddle or a spoon. Make sure that the grounds are moist at all times to stop them from drying and losing their flavor.