Different Kinds of Coffee Makers
The right brewer can make a big difference, whether you're looking to save money on coffee shops, limit the amount of caffeine you consume or just take pleasure in gourmet tastes at home.
From single-serve specialty pods to family-sized carafes, there are many ways to make coffee. Learn about the different types of coffee makers to find which one is right for you:.
Drip Coffee Makers
The type of machine you choose to use will have a significant impact on your morning cup of joe. Different kinds of machines use different methods of brewing, and each method extracts the flavors of your chosen blend in a different way. There are a variety of options, ranging from single-cup brewers, drip coffee makers and even French press coffee makers.
One of the most sought-after kinds of coffee makers is a drip-style model. These brew by heating water and dripping it over the grounds to create hot coffee that you pour directly from the machine into your mug. 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 enjoy the best flavor from your ground coffee, it's important that the water is heated between 195 and 205 degrees Fahrenheit. The majority of smaller models don't quite meet the mark, but premium drip coffee makers are able to provide a temperature that is closer to that of a pour over.
The water is heated by an element within the coffee maker, and it is then pumped through a tubing system that is made of aluminum or plastic. The system is usually constructed with a one-way valve that allows the boiling water to flow through but stops it from flowing back into the bucket or out of the coffee maker.
Once the water has been placed in the reservoir, it starts to drip down into a compartment that houses your ground coffee and filter. As it dribbles down, the showerhead sprays hot water over the beans, creating the gurgling sound that you're used to hearing in your kitchen. This process can take a while, but the end result is a deliciously brewed pot of coffee that you can pour directly from the machine into your thermos or mug.
The advantage of drip-style coffee makers is that it's simple to use and requires very minimal interaction from the user. It is easy to use and ready to go when you turn on the power. This type of coffee maker can be affordable, with the cheapest models costing less than $100. They are also quite durable, although the warranty on some can only be expected to last for one to five years.
Single Serve Coffee Makers
In a family with a lot going on it might not be feasible for all family members to gather around and enjoy a pot of coffee at the same time. A single-serve coffee maker permits everyone to make their own cup of coffee according to their timetable. It's as simple as putting in a K-Cup or pod by pressing a button and getting a mugful. Certain models also make tea and hot cocoa for variety, or to fill travel cups.
These machines are compact and simple to use, taking up very small space on your countertop. They are usually cheaper than drip coffee makers, and you can often find deals online or at local stores. However, a one-cup brewer can be quite costly in the long run, because you will need to buy coffee pods or K-Cups.
To help offset this cost you should consider purchasing an appliance that can take ground coffee and comes with a removable reusable filter for sustainable coffee brewing. Some models have a tall opening for large travel mugs and dishwasher-safe parts. You should read the manual for your coffee maker to find out the frequency at which you need to change the water filter.
Many coffee drinkers prefer not to waste the time and effort that comes with paper filters, so look for a model that allows you to use a mesh filter, which is compatible with a wide range of grounds. Some also have a built-in reservoir that alerts you when it's time to replenish the water.
Cleaning single-serve coffee makers is a fairly quick process and can be done using a solution of white vinegar and water. Be sure to disconnect the machine, and then remove the reservoir of water and the coffee pod holder. Clean the container thoroughly with warm, soapy tap water. If you own a Keurig maker or similar brand, follow the manufacturer's instructions for the frequency of changing the water filter.
They are great for homes and apartments with smaller footprints. Some models have a drip tray built-in which means you don't have to keep separate tray on your counter. A lot of these models are with a beautiful silver 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 called a manual drip coffeemaker) you have many choices. The fancy technique might seem daunting, but it's far simpler than you think. It permits an abundance of customization to make your perfect cup of coffee. The top pour-over makers are easy to clean and use and don't require any power source and are constructed of durable materials that hold heat.
Unlike electric drip coffee makers Pour overs typically comprise of one or two ceramic or metal parts and don't include wires that could break or get clogged. This makes them less likely to require repairs or replacements over time and they can last for a long time without any issues. They also have a minimalist elegant design that appeals to both 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 that are available. The Chemex style however, is the most popular. It is constructed 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, which isn't cheap and takes a bit longer to make eight cups than other models have tested.
Melitta is another brand that makes an excellent pour-over, with a simple, yet sturdy design and a broad range of options for coffee lovers. Their most affordable model is the Classic Pour Over, which comes with a stainless steel mesh filter that eliminates the need to use disposable paper filters. It comes with the thermal water carafe, which keeps the water warm. The flow rate can be adjusted to determine the speed at which water is poured over grounds.
Most pour-overs require a medium size grind, which is common and easy to find in supermarkets. Certain brands may recommend a coarser or finer grind and therefore, make sure you check the specifications prior to purchase.
Siphon Brewers
A siphon coffee maker is a beautiful and practical coffee maker. It is a great choice for those looking to impress their guests. It has an elegant and sleek design that would fit perfectly in any kitchen. This kind of coffee maker served guests coffee during ancient celebrations and sumptuous feasts. This could be the reason for its attractive appearance.
Siphon coffeemakers use a unique way to make coffee by using water vapors. It is also known as the immersion style of brewing and is considered to be one of the most advanced methods. This is due to the fact that it makes an intensely flavored cup coffee that has the most perfect flavor balance among other brewing techniques.
The device is made up of two glass vessels that are connected via tubes. The lower vessel is filled with water, and the upper vessel is filled with coffee beans. The device is positioned over a heat source such as a gas burner or electric heater, and the steam begins rising from the lower chamber. Then, the freshly ground coffee is poured into the upper chamber and then secured tightly. Once the coffee has been prepared, it is taken from the source of heat and allowed to cool before serving.
It's a great idea to test your siphon coffee maker before you use it. Warm some water, and then pour it over the grounds. This will ensure that the device is operating well and doesn't clog or damage the grounds in any way. Also, it is essential to use the correct amount of ground so that your drink does not taste bitter or muddy.
To get the best flavor out of your siphon brewer, it's important that you grind your coffee beans to an extremely fine texture. You can use a burr or manual hand grinder, based on your preference. After the grounds have been prepared, they should be added to the upper chamber of your coffeee maker and stirred gently using a spoon or bamboo paddle. Keep the grounds wet at all times to stop them from drying out and losing their flavor.