Different Kinds of Coffee Makers
Whether you're looking to cut back on coffee shop spending, want to reduce your intake of caffeine or simply want to enjoy a gourmet taste at home, the perfect brewer can make all the difference.
From single-serve specialty pods to family-sized carafes, there are many ways to brew. Find out about the different types and select one that is right for you.
Drip Coffee Makers
The type of machine you choose to use can have a big impact on the flavor of your morning coffee. Different types of machines employ different methods for 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 well-known types of coffee makers is a drip-style model. These models brew coffee through heating water, then dripping it over the grounds before pouring it directly into the mug. These machines are great for those who prefer the traditional full-pot brewed that is more flavorful than instant coffee.
To get the most flavor from your coffee, it is essential to heat the water to between 195-205 degrees Fahrenheit. Many cheaper models fall short of the mark, while premium drip coffee makers are able to provide a temperature that is closer to the temperature of a pour-over.
The water is heated by an element inside the coffee maker, and then it passes through a tubing system that is made of aluminum or plastic. This system is constructed with a one way valve that allows the boiling to pass through, but prevents the water from flowing back out into the bucket or coffee maker.
Once the water has been placed in the reservoir, it begins to drop down into a chamber which houses your coffee ground and filter. As it drips down the showerhead sprays the hot water on the beans, causing the gurgling sound that you're familiar with in your kitchen. The process can take a while but you'll end with a delicious cup of coffee. You can pour it directly out of the machine into your mug or thermos.
A drip-style coffeemaker is simple to use, and requires little interaction from the user. It is easy to operate and ready to go once you switch on the power. Basic models can cost as just as low as $100. They are also quite durable, although the warranty for some models will only last between one and five years.
Single Serve Coffee Makers
In a family with a lot going on it might not be possible for everyone to relax and enjoy a pot of coffee at the same time. A single-serve coffee maker permits each person to make their own cup of coffee according to their timetable. It's as simple as plopping in a coffee pod or a pre-packaged K-Cup by pressing an on and taking the mug. Certain models also make hot cocoa and tea to make a variety, or fill travel cups.
These machines are compact and easy to use, taking up little space on the countertop. They are usually less expensive than drip coffee makers, and you can often find bargains online or at local stores. A single-cup brewer can be more expensive over the long run because you must buy coffee pods and K-Cups.
Consider investing in a model with a removable filter that can be reused to make sustainable brewing. This will help offset the cost. Some models have an opening large enough to fit large travel mugs, and parts that are dishwasher safe. You should consult the instructions for your coffee maker to learn when you should change the water filter.
Many coffee lovers prefer not to waste the time and effort associated with paper filters, so look for a filter that allows you to use a mesh filter, which is compatible with a wide range of grounds. Certain models come with a built in reservoir that will alert you when it is time to refill the water.
Cleaning single-serve coffee makers is relatively simple as it is done with a solution of white vinegar and water. Be sure to unplug the machine and take out the reservoir for water and the coffee pod holder. Thoroughly rinse the container with soapy, warm water. If you have a Keurig or similar brand of machine, be sure to follow the instructions of the manufacturer on the frequency of replacing the water filter.
They are great for homes and apartments with smaller footprints. Some models come with a drip tray that is built-in, so you don't need to keep an additional tray on your counter. These models are available in a silver finish to be a perfect match with other kitchen appliances.
Pour Over Coffee Makers
There are many options to choose from if you want to upgrade your manual drip coffee maker (also known as a pour-over coffeemaker). The fancy method may seem intimidating, but it's more approachable than you think and offers a lot of customization to make your perfect cup of coffee. The best pour-over makers are easy to clean and use they don't require an energy source and are made of durable materials that hold heat.
Pour overs are not like drip coffee makers with electric drips. They usually have a couple of metal or ceramic components and there are no wires that could cause damage or blockage. This makes them less likely to need repairs or replacements over the course of time and can be used for decades without issues. The minimalist, stylish design appeals to coffee lovers as well as those who "Buy It For Life" who wish to reduce waste from landfills.
There are many varieties of pour overs on the market, however the Chemex style is probably the most well-known. It is constructed of non-porous Borosilicate Glass, which is durable and doesn't absorb chemical odors or odors. This model requires a Chemex paper filtre that isn't the cheapest choice. It takes longer to brew 8 cups than other models tested.
Melitta also makes a great pour-over. It has an easy-to-use but robust design, and provides many options for coffee lovers. The Classic Pour Over is their most affordable model, and it includes a stainless-steel mesh filter that eliminates the need to use disposable paper filters. It uses the thermal water carafe, which keeps the water warm. The flow rate can be adjusted so you can control the speed at which the water is poured onto the ground.
Most pour overs require a medium grind size that is the most commonly used and easiest to find pre-ground in supermarkets. Certain brands may recommend the use of a finer or coarser grind and therefore, make sure you check the specifications prior to purchasing.
Siphon Brewers
A siphon coffee maker is a beautiful and practical coffee maker. It is a fantastic option for those who want to impress their guests. It has an elegant and sleek design that will look great in any kitchen. When it was time for celebrations in the past and lavish banquets, this type of coffee maker was used for serving coffee to guests. This could be the reason for its attractive appearance.
Siphon coffee makers employ an innovative method of making coffee by using vacuums and water vapors to make the beverage. It is also called the immersion style of brewing and is considered to be one of the most sophisticated methods. This is because it creates an intensely flavorful cup of coffee that has the best combination of flavors compared to other brewing methods.
The device consists of two glass vessels that are connected via a tube. The lower one holds water while the upper one is filled with ground coffee beans. The device is positioned over the source of heat, such as a gas burner or electric heater, and steam begins to rise from the lower chamber. After that, the pre-ground coffee is poured into the upper chamber, and secured tightly. After the coffee has been brewed, coffee is removed from the stove and allowed to cool prior to serving.
Before you use your siphon coffee maker it is a good idea to test the equipment by heating water before running it over the grounds. This will ensure that the device is operating correctly and won't block the grounds or harm them in any other way. Also, it is important to use the correct amount of ground so that your beverage doesn't taste muddy or bitter.
To get the most flavor out of your siphon brewer it is essential to grind your coffee beans into a medium-coarse texture. You can employ a burr or a manual hand grinder depending on your preference. After the ground is prepared, they should be added to the upper chamber of your coffeee maker and stirred gently with bamboo paddle or a spoon. Keep the grounds moist at all times in order to avoid drying out and losing their taste.