Different Kinds of Coffee Makers
If you're looking for ways to cut back on the cost of coffee, to cut down on your caffeine intake or simply enjoy gourmet flavor at home, the right brewer can make a huge difference.
From single-serve specialty pods to large-sized carafes, there's a myriad of ways to make coffee. Learn more about the various kinds and pick the one that's best for you.
Drip Coffee Makers
When you're brewing your morning cup of coffee, it can depend on what kind of machine you're using. Different machines employ different methods of brewing and each method produces different flavors. There's a wide range of options, from single-cup brewers to drip coffee makers, and even French press coffee makers.
One of the most well-known kinds of coffee maker is a drip model. These machines brew coffee by heating water, pouring it over the grounds before pouring it directly into the mug. These machines are great for those who prefer traditional full-pot brewed that has a stronger flavor than instant coffee.
In order to get the most flavor from your ground coffee, you must ensure that the water is heated to between 195 and 205 degrees Fahrenheit. Cheaper models often fall short of this threshold however, more expensive drip coffee makers can deliver a temperature that is closer to what you'd expect from a pour-over cup.
The water is heated inside the coffee maker by an element, then it passes through a tube that is constructed of aluminum or plastic. This system is constructed with a one-way valve that lets the boiling water in however, it prevents the water from flowing back out into the bucket or coffee maker.
Once the water is filled into the reservoir the water will flow down to the area that houses the coffee ground 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 can take some time, but you'll end up with a delicious cup of coffee. You can pour it directly out of the machine into your mug or thermos.
The benefit of drip-style coffee makers is that it's easy to use and requires very little interaction from the user. It's simple to use and ready to go as soon as you switch on the power. This type of coffee maker can also be affordable, with the cheapest models costing less than $100. These coffee makers are sturdy, but the warranty for certain models may be limited to a single years.
Single Serve Coffee Makers
In a busy home, it is impossible for everyone to enjoy coffee at the same time. With a single serve coffee maker, everyone can make their own cup of coffee according to their own time. It's as simple as placing in a coffee pod or a pre-packaged K-Cup and pressing a button and grabbing a mugful. With certain models, you can also make tea and hot cocoa to spice up your life or fill travel mugs.
These machines are simple to use and small, taking up little space on your counter. They're usually less expensive than a drip coffee maker and you can usually find discounts online or in local stores. However, a one-cup maker can be costly in the long run since you have to purchase K-Cups or coffee pods.
To help offset this cost, consider investing in an appliance that can take ground coffee and comes with a removable reusable filter for sustainable brewing. Some models have tall openings for large travel mugs and dishwasher-safe parts. You should consult the instructions for your coffee maker to determine the frequency at which you need to change the water filter.
The majority of coffee drinkers are trying to eliminate the waste produced by paper filters. Instead look for filters that allow you to use mesh filters, which can be used with all grounds. Some models have a built in reservoir which will notify you when it is time to replenish the water.
Cleaning a single serve coffee maker is easy as you can use a solution of water and white vinegar. Make sure you unplug the machine and remove the reservoir for water and coffee pod holder. Rinse the container thoroughly using warm, soapy tap water. If you own a Keurig machine or similar brand adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines for how often to change the water filter.
The majority of models have a compact footprint, which makes them ideal for smaller apartments and homes. Some models even come with a built-in drip tray, removing the necessity of a separate drip tray on your kitchen counter. A majority of these models come with a silver-colored finish that is a great match with other kitchen appliances and fixtures.
Pour Over Coffee Makers
If you're looking to upgrade your pour over coffee maker (also known as a manual drip coffeemaker) you have many choices. The fancy technique might seem intimidating, but it's much more accessible than you imagine and allows for many options for customization to create your ideal cup of coffee. The top pour-over makers are easy to clean and operate they don't require an energy source and are made of durable materials that can hold heat.
Pour overs aren't as sophisticated as electric drip coffee makers. They typically have a couple of ceramic or metal parts and there are no wires that could break or clog. This makes them much less likely to need repairs or replacements in the future, and they can be used for decades without issues. They also have a minimalist, stylish design that is appealing to coffee lovers as well as the "Buy It For Life" crowd who like to reduce their waste.
There are a few different varieties of pour overs on the market, but the Chemex design is likely to be the most well-known. It's made from non-porous Borosilicate glass which is a good choice for coffee because it's durable and doesn't absorb odors or chemicals. This model requires an Chemex paper filter that isn't the cheapest option. It also takes longer to brew 8 cups than other models tried.
Melitta is another brand that makes an excellent pour over with a simple, yet sturdy design and a broad range 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 need to use disposable paper filters. It is equipped with the thermal water carafe, which keeps the water warm. The flow rate can also be adjusted so you can regulate the speed at which water is poured over the ground.
The majority of pour overs require a medium grind size, which is the most popular and easiest to find pre-ground in grocery stores. However, some brands may suggest a more coarse or fine grind for their products, so be sure to read the specifications prior to purchasing.
Siphon Brewers
With its beautiful and functional design siphon coffee maker is among the most stunning coffee-making equipment. It doubles as a tool for making drinks and is an excellent choice for those who want to impress their guests. It has an elegant and sleek design that is perfect for any kitchen. In the past, during lavish celebrations and banquets, this coffee maker was used for serving coffee to guests. This may be the reason this machine has a beautiful appearance.
A siphon coffee maker uses a unique method to make coffee by using vacuums and water vapors to create the drink. It is also known as the brewing method that is based on immersion and is thought to be one of the most sophisticated methods. This is because it produces an intensely flavored cup coffee that has the best combination of flavors compared to other brewing techniques.
The device is comprised of two glass containers joined by tubes. The lower vessel holds water, while the top vessel is filled with coffee beans. The device is placed on top of an energy source like an electric or gas heater, and the steam starts rising from the lower chamber. After that, the ground coffee is added into the upper chamber, and secured tightly. Once the coffee is brewed, it is removed from the heat source and allowed to cool down before being served.
It's a great idea to test the siphon coffee maker prior to you use it. Make sure you heat water and then run it over the grounds. This will make sure that the device is working properly and won't clog the grounds or harm them in any other way. It is also crucial to use the right amount of grounds to ensure that your beverage does not taste bitter or muggy.
To get the most flavor from your siphon brewer, it is crucial to grind your coffee beans to a medium-coarse consistency. You can use a burr or manual hand grinder depending on your preference. Once the grounds are prepared, they must be added into the upper chamber of your coffeee maker and stirred gently using bamboo paddle or a spoon. Make sure that the grounds are moist throughout the day to prevent them from drying out and losing their flavor.