Different Kinds of Coffee Makers
The right brewer can make a big difference, whether you want to save money on coffee shops, limit the amount of caffeine you consume or just have a taste of gourmet coffee at home.
From single-serve specialty pods to family-sized carafes, there are a variety of ways to brew. Find out about the different kinds and pick the one that's right for you.
Drip Coffee Makers
When you're brewing your morning cup of coffee, it can depend on the type of machine you're using. Different machines use different methods of brewing, and each method extracts flavors differently. There are a variety of choices, 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. These models brew coffee through heating water, dripping over the grounds before pouring it directly into the cup. These machines are great for those who prefer the traditional full-pot brewed coffee, which has a more flavorful taste than instant coffee.
To get the most flavor out of your ground coffee, it is essential to heat the water to between 195 and 205 degrees Fahrenheit. Cheaper models usually fall short of this goal however, more expensive drip coffee makers can deliver a temperature that is closer to what you'd think of from a pour-over coffee maker.
The water is heated inside the coffee maker using an element, and then it is pumped through a tube comprised of aluminum or plastic. The system is usually designed with a single-way valve that allows the boiling water to pass 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 flow down to the compartment that houses the coffee ground and filter. The showerhead sprays hot water onto the beans as it drips down. This causes the familiar gurgling noise you hear in your kitchen. This process can take a while, but the end result is a deliciously brewed pot of coffee that you can pour straight from the machine into your thermos or mug.
A drip-style coffeemaker is straightforward to operate and requires minimal interaction from the end user. It's a breeze to use and is typically ready to go the moment you turn on the power. This type of coffee maker can also be affordable, with the cheapest models costing less than $100. These coffee makers are also durable, although the warranty for certain models may only last one to five year.
Single Serve Coffee Makers
In a busy home, it is not always possible for everyone to enjoy a pot at the same time. With a single serve coffee maker, every person can make their own cup of coffee according to their own time. It's as simple as putting in a K-Cup or a pod by pressing a button and getting a mugful. With some models, you can also make tea and hot cocoa for variety or to fill travel mugs.
These machines are easy to use and compact, taking up little space on your counter. They are cheaper than drip machines, and usually at local or online stores. However, a single-cup brewer can be quite costly in the long run, as you need to continually buy coffee pods or K-Cups.
Consider investing in one equipped with a filter that can be reused to make sustainable making. This will help to reduce the cost. Some models have tall openings for large travel mugs as well as dishwasher-safe parts. It is recommended to read the instruction instructions for your coffee maker to determine the frequency at which you should change the water filter.
Many coffee enthusiasts want to avoid the waste associated with paper filters, so look for a filter that allows you to use a mesh filter, which is compatible with most grounds. Some models also come with a built-in reservoir that alerts you when it's time to replenish the water.
Cleaning the single serve coffee maker is easy as you can use a solution of white vinegar and water. Unplug the machine and take off the coffee pod holder as well as the water reservoir. Thoroughly rinse the container with soapy, warm water. If you have Keurig or another similar brand of machine, make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions on how often to replace the water filter.
They are ideal for apartments and homes with smaller footprints. Some models come with a drip tray built in, so you don't need to keep separate 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) there are a variety of options. The fancy technique might seem daunting, but it's simpler than you think and offers many options for customization to create your ideal cup of coffee. The top pour-over makers are simple to clean and use they don't require an energy source and are made of durable materials that retain heat.
Pour overs aren't as sophisticated as electric drip coffee makers. They typically have one or two ceramic or metal parts and no wires to break or clog. They are less likely to require replacements or repairs as they age, and can be used for decades. The sleek, minimalist design appeals to coffee enthusiasts and those who "Buy It For Life" who wish to reduce waste from landfills.
There are many kinds of pour-overs on the market. The Chemex style is, however, 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 Chemex paper filter, which isn't the cheapest option and takes a bit longer to make eight cups than the majority of models that have been tested.
Melitta is another brand that makes an excellent pour-over, with a simple, yet sturdy design and a wide selection of options for the coffee lover. Their most affordable model is the Classic Pour Over, which is equipped with a stainless steel mesh filter that eliminates the need to use disposable paper filters. It also comes with a thermal carafe to keep the water warm. It comes with an adjustable flow rate so you can regulate the speed at which water flows across the grounds.
Pour overs typically require a medium grind size, which is the most commonly used and easy to find in grocery stores. However, certain brands may suggest a coarser or fine grind for their products, so make sure to read the specifications before buying.
Siphon Brewers
With its stunning and functional design siphon coffee maker is among the most impressive coffee-making devices. It doubles as a drink-making device and is a fantastic option for those looking to impress their guests. It is sleek and elegant, so it will look stunning in any kitchen. This type of coffee maker served coffee to guests at lavish feasts and celebrations of the past. This could be the reason behind its beautiful appearance.
A siphon coffeemaker uses an unique method to make coffee by using water vapors. It is also referred to as the brewing style that is immersion and it is considered to be among the most sophisticated methods of brewing. It produces a cup of coffee that has the best balance of flavor and aroma among the various brewing methods.
The device is made up of two glass containers joined via 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 a gas stove or electric heater. When the lower chamber starts to steam up the device is set up. The pre-ground coffee can then be added to the upper chamber, and the device is secured tightly. 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 test the device by heating some water and then running some over the grounds. This will ensure that the device is functioning correctly and won't block the grounds or harm them in any other way. Also, it is important to use the right amount of ground so that your beverage doesn't taste muddy or bitter.
To get the most flavor from your siphon brewer it is important that you grind your coffee beans into a medium-coarse texture. This can be accomplished using either a burr grinder or manual hand grinder, based on your preference. Once the grounds are 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 moist at all times to prevent them from drying out and losing their taste.