Different Kinds of Coffee Makers
Whether you're looking to cut back on coffee shop expenses, wish to limit your caffeine intake or simply enjoy gourmet flavor at home, the right brewer can make a huge difference.
From single-serve specialty pods, to family-sized carafes, there are many ways to make coffee. Find out about the different kinds and pick the one that's right for you.
Drip Coffee Makers
When it comes to your morning cup of coffee, it can depend on the type of machine you own. Different machines employ different methods of brewing and each method extracts flavors differently. There are a myriad of options, including single-cup brewers, drip coffee makers, and even French press machines.
One of the most popular kinds of coffee maker is a drip model. These models brew coffee through heating water, pouring it over the grounds before pouring it directly into the cup. These machines are ideal for those who prefer the traditional full-pot brewed coffee, which is more flavorful than instant coffee.
In order to get the most flavor out of your ground coffee, you must ensure that the water is heated between 195 and 205 degrees Fahrenheit. Most smaller models don't quite meet the mark, while premium drip coffee makers are able to deliver a temperature closer to that of a pour-over.
The water is heated inside the coffee maker using an element, and then it passes through a tube that is comprised of aluminum or plastic. The system is usually constructed with a single-way valve that allows the boiling water to flow through but stops it from returning to the bucket or out of the coffee maker.
When the water is inside the reservoir, it begins to drop down into a chamber which houses your coffee ground and filter. As it dribbles down, the showerhead sprays hot water onto the beans to create the gurgling sound you're familiar with in your kitchen. This process could take some time, but you'll end up with a delicious cup of coffee. You can pour it straight out of the machine into your thermos or mug.
A drip-style coffeemaker is easy to operate and requires only minimal input from the user. It's simple to use and is ready to go as soon as you switch on the power. This kind of coffee maker may also be inexpensive, with basic models costing less than $100. These coffee makers are also sturdy, but the warranty for certain models may be limited to a single years.
Single Serve Coffee Makers
In a busy household it might not be feasible for all family members to gather around and enjoy a cup of coffee simultaneously. A single-serve coffee maker allows each person to make their own cup of coffee according to their schedule. It's just a matter of inserting a K-Cup or a pod by pressing a button and then consuming a cup. With certain models, you can also make tea and hot cocoa for variety or to fill travel cups.
These machines are small and simple to use, taking up very small space on your countertop. They're generally less expensive than a drip coffee maker, and you can often find discounts online or in local stores. A one-cup brewer is more expensive in the long term, since you have to purchase K-Cups and coffee pods.
To help offset this cost you should consider purchasing a model that accepts ground coffee and features filters that are reusable and removable to make sustainable making. Certain models come with tall openings for large travel mugs, as well as dishwasher-safe parts. You should read the manual of your coffee maker to determine when you should change the water filter.
Many coffee drinkers want to avoid the waste that comes with paper filters, so look for a filter that allows you to utilize a mesh filter which is compatible with a wide range of grounds. Certain models come with a built in reservoir which will notify you when to refill the water.
Cleaning a single serve coffee maker is easy, as you can use water and white vinegar. Make sure you unplug the machine, and then remove the reservoir for water and the coffee pod holder. Rinse the container thoroughly with warm, soapy tap water. If you own Keurig or another similar brand of machine, be sure to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer regarding how often to replace the water filter.
Most models have a smaller footprint, so they're great for apartments and homes with smaller spaces. Some even have an integrated drip tray, removing the necessity of an additional drip tray on the counter in your kitchen. A lot of these models are with a silver-colored finish that matches other kitchen appliances and fixtures.
Pour over coffee makers
There are many options to choose from for upgrading your manual drip coffee maker (also called a pour over coffeemaker). The fancy technique might seem intimidating, but it's much simpler than you imagine. It offers many different customizations to make your ideal cup of coffee. The top pour-over makers are simple to clean and operate, don't need an energy source and are constructed of durable materials that hold heat.
Unlike electric drip coffee makers, pour overs usually comprise just two or three ceramic or metal components and don't have any wires that may break or become blocked. They are less likely to require repairs or replacements as they age, and can be used for decades. They also have a minimal, stylish design that will appeal to coffee lovers and the "Buy It For Life" crowd who like to reduce the amount of waste they leave behind.
There are many varieties of pour overs on the market, but the Chemex style is the most popular. It's made from non-porous Borosilicate glass, which is a good choice for coffee due to the fact that it is durable and does not absorb odors or chemicals. This model requires the use of a Chemex paper filter, which isn’t the cheapest choice. It takes longer to brew 8 cups than other models that were tested.
Melitta is another brand that produces an excellent pour over, with a simple yet sturdy design and a broad variety of options for coffee lovers. 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 also uses a thermal carafe to keep the water warm. It also can be adjusted in flow rate so you can control how fast the water flows across the grounds.
The majority of pour overs require a medium grind size that is the most commonly used and easiest to find pre-ground in grocery stores. Some brands may suggest grinding that is coarser or more fine and therefore, make sure you check the specifications prior to purchasing.
Siphon Brewers
With its beautiful and functional design siphon coffee maker is one of the most impressive coffee-making devices. It is an excellent option for those who want to impress their guests. It has an elegant and sleek design that will look great in any kitchen. This type of coffee maker served guests coffee during ancient celebrations and sumptuous feasts. This could be the reason behind its attractive appearance.
A siphon coffee maker uses a unique method of making coffee by using vacuums and water vapors to create the drink. It is also known as the brewing style that is immersion and is thought to be one of the most sophisticated methods of brewing. It makes a cup of coffee that has the most balanced flavor compared to other brewing methods.
The device is made up of two glass vessels connected via a tube. The lower vessel holds water while the upper one is filled with ground coffee beans. The device is positioned over an energy source like an electric or gas heater, and steam begins to rise from the lower chamber. After that, the pre-ground coffee is added into the upper chamber, and secured tightly. Once the coffee is brewed, it is removed from the source of heat and allowed to cool before being served.
Before you use your siphon coffee maker it's a good idea to test the equipment by heating some water, then running it over the grounds. This will ensure that the device functions correctly and won't block or damage the grounds in any way. It is also important to select the correct amount of ground to ensure that your beverage does not taste bitter or muddy.
To get the most flavor from your siphon brewer, it is essential to grind your coffee beans to a medium coarse consistency. This can be done using a burr grinder or a manual hand grinder, depending on your preference. After the grounds have been prepared, they must be added into the upper chamber of your coffeee maker and gently stirred with a spoon or bamboo paddle. Keep the grounds moist at all times to prevent them from drying out and losing their flavor.