Different Kinds of Coffee Makers
If you're looking to cut back on coffee shop spending, want to limit your caffeine intake or simply enjoy the taste of gourmet at home, the perfect brewer can make a huge difference.
There are many ways to brew, from single-serve pods, to large carafes. Find out about the different types and choose the one that's 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 types of machines employ different methods to brew, and each method extracts the flavors of your preferred blend differently. There are a myriad of options including single-cup brewers drip coffee makers and even French press machines.
One of the most well-known types of coffee makers is a drip-style model. These brew by heating water and dripping it over grounds to create an instant hot pot of coffee that can be poured directly from the machine into your cup. They are ideal for those who want to drink traditional full-pot brewed coffee, which is known to have more flavor than prepackaged instant coffee.
To get the most flavor out of your ground coffee, it's important that the water is heated between 195 and 205 degrees Fahrenheit. Many smaller models don't quite meet the mark, while high-end drip coffee makers can provide a temperature that is 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's either made of aluminum or plastic. The system is usually designed with a one-way valve that allows the boiling water to pass through but stops it from flowing back into the bucket or out of the coffee maker.
When the water is inside the reservoir, it begins to drip down into a container which houses your coffee ground and filter. The showerhead sprays hot water over the beans as it drips down. This produces the familiar gurgling sound you hear in your kitchen. This process could take a while, but you'll end up with a delicious pot of coffee. You can pour it directly from the machine in your mug or thermos.
A drip-style coffeemaker is straightforward to use and requires minimal interaction from the user. It is easy to use and is ready to go as soon as you switch on the power. Basic models can cost as just as low as $100. They are also quite robust, even though the warranty on certain models will only last between one and five years.
Single Serve Coffee Makers
In a busy household it might not be feasible for everyone to sit around and enjoy a pot of coffee at the same time. A single-serve coffee maker allows each person to make their own coffee according to their own schedule. It's just a matter of placing a K-Cup or pod by pressing a button and then enjoying a cup. Some models can also make hot cocoa and tea for variety, or to fill travel cups.
These machines are simple to use and compact, taking up little space on your counter. They are cheaper than a drip machine, and typically at local or online shops. A single-cup brewer can be more expensive over the long run as you need to purchase K-Cups and coffee pods.
You should consider investing in an item equipped with a filter that can be reused to make sustainable making. This will help offset the cost. Some models have an open space that can accommodate large travel mugs and parts that are dishwasher safe. It's essential to read the coffee maker's instruction manual to determine the frequency you should change the water filter.
Many coffee drinkers are looking to reduce the waste associated with paper filters, so look for a model that allows you to make use of a mesh filter, which is compatible with most grounds. Certain models come with an inbuilt reservoir that will notify you when it is time to refill the water.
Cleaning a single-serve coffee maker is a fairly quick process and is done with a solution of white vinegar and water. Unplug the machine and remove the coffee pod holder as well as the reservoir for water. Rinse the container thoroughly with warm soapy tap water. If you own a Keurig maker or a similar brand, follow the manufacturer's instructions for how often to change the water filter.
They are perfect for homes and apartments with smaller footprints. Some models even come with a built-in drip tray, which eliminates the need for a separate drip tray for your kitchen counter. These models are available in a silver-colored finish to be a perfect match with other kitchen appliances.
Pour Over Coffee Makers
You have many options for upgrading your manual drip coffeemaker (also known as a pour over coffeemaker). The fancy technique might seem daunting, but it's more approachable than you think and allows many options for customization to create your ideal cup of coffee. The top pour-over makers are simple to clean and operate and don't require an energy source and are constructed of durable materials that retain heat.
Pour-overs aren't like drip coffee makers that are electric. They usually only have one or two metal or ceramic components and have there are no wires that could break or clog. They are less likely to require replacements or repairs as they age, and can be used for many decades. They also have a minimalist and stylish design that will appeal to coffee lovers as well as the "Buy It For Life" crowd who prefer to reduce their landfill waste.
There are many kinds of pour-overs on the market. The Chemex style however, is the most popular. It is made of non-porous Borosilicate Glass that is tough and does not absorb odors or chemical. This particular model requires a special Chemex filter made of paper. It isn't the cheapest option, and it takes longer to brew eight cups than the majority of models tested.
Melitta is another brand that produces an excellent pour over, with a simple yet sturdy design and a wide range of options for coffee lovers. Their most affordable model is the Classic Pour Over, which includes a stainless steel mesh filter that eliminates the need for paper filters. It is equipped with 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 the ground.
The majority of pour overs require a medium grind size which is the most common and easiest to find pre-ground in grocery stores. Certain brands may recommend the use of a finer or coarser grind however, so make sure to check the specifications prior to purchasing.
Siphon Brewers
With its attractive and practical design, a siphon coffee maker is one of the most stunning coffee-making equipment. It doubles as a drink-making tool and is a fantastic choice for those who want to impress their guests. It is sleek and elegant, so it will look fantastic in any kitchen. This kind of coffee maker served coffee to guests during lavish feasts and celebrations of the past. This could be the reason behind its beautiful appearance.
A siphon coffee maker uses a unique method to make coffee using vacuums and water vapors to make the drink. It is also known as the brewing style that is immersion and is believed to be one of the most sophisticated brewing methods. This is because it creates an intensely flavored cup coffee that is the perfect flavor balance among other brewing methods.
The device consists of two glass vessels connected via a tube. The lower one holds water while the upper one is filled with coffee beans that have been ground. The device is placed on top of the source of heat, such as a gas burner or electric heater, and the steam starts rising from the lower chamber. The coffee ground prior to grinding can be added to the upper chamber and the device is secured. Once the coffee is prepared, it is taken from the heat source and allowed to cool before being served.
It's a good idea to test the siphon coffee maker prior to you use it. Heat some water, and then pour it over the grounds. This will ensure the device is working properly and won't clog the grounds or harm them in any other 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 best flavor from your siphon brewer, it is essential to grind your coffee beans into a medium-fine texture. This can be accomplished using a burr grinder or a manual hand grinder, depending on your preference. After the ground is prepared, they must be added into the upper chamber of your coffeee maker and stirred gently with bamboo paddle or a spoon. Keep the grounds moist throughout the day to prevent them from drying and losing their flavor.