The right brewer can make a huge difference, whether you're looking 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 make coffee. Find out about the different types and choose one that is right for you.Drip Coffee Makers
What kind of machine you are using will have a significant impact on your morning cup of coffee. Different types of machines employ different methods of brewing, and each method extracts the flavor of your selected blend differently. You can find a range of choices, from single-cup brewers to drip coffee makers and even French press coffee makers.
One of the most popular kinds of coffee maker is a drip-style model. These brew by heating water before pouring it over the ground to create an instant hot pot of coffee that you can pour directly from the machine into your mug. These machines are ideal 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, you must heat the water to between 195 and 205 degrees Fahrenheit. Cheaper models usually fall short of this mark however, more expensive drip coffee makers can offer a temperature that is closer to what you'd expect from a pour-over cup.
The water is heated by an element within the coffee maker, and then it flows through a tubing mechanism that is made of aluminum or plastic. The system is usually constructed with a one-way valve that allows the boiling water to enter but prevents it from returning to the bucket or out of the coffee maker.
Once the water has been placed in the reservoir, it starts to drop down into a chamber that contains your ground coffee and filter. As it drips down, the showerhead sprays the hot water on the beans, causing the gurgling sound you're used to hearing in your kitchen. This process could take a while but you'll end with a delicious pot 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 minimal interaction from the end user. It's easy to use and is ready to go as soon as you switch on the power. This type of coffee maker can be quite affordable, with basic models priced at less than $100. They're also fairly durable, though the warranty for some models can only be expected to last between one and five years.
Single Serve Coffee Makers
In a family with a lot going on it might not be feasible for all family members to sit around and enjoy a pot of coffee at the same time. With a single-serve coffee maker, everyone can make their own cup of coffee on their schedule. It's as simple as placing into a coffee pod or a pre-packaged K-Cup by pressing the button and then grabbing a mugful. Certain models also make hot cocoa and tea for variety, or to fill travel cups.
They are simple to use and compact, taking up only a little space on your counter. They are usually less expensive than drip coffee makers and you'll often find deals online or at local stores. A one-cup brewer is more expensive over the long run, since you have to buy coffee pods and K-Cups.
Consider investing in an item with a removable filter that can be reused to make sustainable drinking. This will help offset the cost. Some models have a tall opening for large travel mugs, as well as dishwasher-safe parts. It is recommended to read the instruction manual of your coffee maker to determine how often you need to change the water filter.
Most coffee lovers are looking to avoid the waste that comes with paper filters. Instead, look for models which allow mesh filters that can be used with a variety of grounds. Certain models come with a reservoir built-in that will notify you when to refill the water.
Cleaning a single-serve coffee maker can be relatively simple and can be done with a solution of white vinegar and water. Unplug the machine, then take off the coffee pod holder and reservoir of water. Rinse the container thoroughly with warm, soapy tap water. If you have Keurig or a similar model of machine, make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions on how often to replace the water filter.
The majority of models have a compact footprint, which makes them ideal for apartments and homes with smaller spaces. Some models come with a drip tray that is built-in which means you don't have to keep separate tray on your counter. These models are available in a silver finish to match other kitchen appliances.
Pour Over Coffee Makers
There are a variety of options available when you're looking to upgrade your manual drip coffee maker (also known as a pour over coffeemaker). The fancy method might appear daunting, but it's simpler than you think and allows for many options for customization to make your perfect cup of coffee. The best pour-over makers are easy to clean and operate and don't require a power source and are constructed of durable materials that hold heat.
Pour-overs aren't like drip coffee makers with electric drips. They usually only have one or two metal or ceramic parts and have no wires to break or clog. They are less likely to require replacements or repairs as they age, and are able to be used for decades. The minimalist, stylish design is appealing to coffee lovers and those who "Buy It For Life" and want to reduce landfill waste.
There are many varieties of pour overs on the market, but the Chemex style is the most popular. It's made of non-porous Borosilicate glass which is a great choice for coffee because it's tough and doesn't absorb odors or chemicals. This model requires an Chemex paper filtre that isn't the cheapest choice. It takes longer to make 8 cups than other models 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 includes a stainless steel mesh filter that eliminates the need to use disposable paper filters. It uses a thermal water carafe that keeps the water warm. The flow rate can be adjusted so you can determine the speed at which the water is poured over ground.
Pour overs typically require a medium grind size, which is the most common and simplest to find in grocery stores. However, some brands might suggest a more coarse or fine grind for their products, so make sure to read the specifications before buying.
Siphon Brewers
With its stunning and functional design, a siphon coffee maker is among the most impressive coffee-making devices. It serves as a tool for making drinks and is a fantastic option for those looking to impress their guests. It's elegant and stylish, which means it would look great in any kitchen. During ancient celebrations and sumptuous banquets, this coffee maker was used for serving coffee to guests. This could be the reason behind its beautiful appearance.
Siphon coffeemakers employ an unique method to make coffee, using water vapors. It is also referred to as the immersion style of brewing and is thought to be among the most sophisticated methods of brewing. It creates the perfect cup of coffee that has the highest level of flavor compared to other methods of brewing.
The device is made up of two glass vessels joined via tubes. The lower vessel holds water, while the upper is filled with coffee beans that have been ground. The device is positioned over the source of heat, such as an electric or gas heater and then the steam begins rising from the lower chamber. The coffee ground prior to grinding can be added to the upper chamber and the device is secured tightly. After the coffee has been brewed, the coffee is removed from the heat and allowed to cool before serving.
It's a good idea to test the siphon coffee maker prior to you start using it. Heat some water, and then pour it over the grounds. This will ensure that the device works correctly and won't block or otherwise damage the grounds. It is also important to use the correct amount of grounds to ensure that your beverage doesn't taste muddy or bitter.
To get the most flavor from your siphon brewer, it's important that you grind your coffee beans to an extremely fine texture. This can be done with the burr grinder or a manual hand grinder, depending on your preference. Once the grounds are ready, they need to be added to the upper chamber of your coffeee maker and stirred gently using a spoon or bamboo paddle. Make sure that the grounds are moist at all times in order to avoid drying and losing their flavor.
