Different Kinds of Coffee Makers
The right brewer will make a significant difference, whether you want to save money at coffee shops, cut down on your consumption of caffeine, or simply have a taste of gourmet coffee at home.
From single-serve specialty pods, to family-sized carafes, there's a myriad of ways to make coffee. Learn about the different types of coffee makers to find the best one for you:.
Drip Coffee Makers
When you're looking forward to your morning cup of coffee, a lot can depend on what kind of machine you're using. Different types of machines employ different methods to brew, and each method extracts the flavors of your preferred blend in a different way. There are a myriad of options such as single-cup brewers, drip coffee makers and even French press machines.
One of the most sought-after kinds of coffee makers is a drip-style model. They brew coffee by heating water before pouring it over the ground to create a hot pot of coffee that can be poured directly from the machine into your mug. These machines are great for those who prefer the traditional full-pot brewed coffee, which has a stronger flavor than instant coffee.
In order to get the most flavor out of your ground coffee, it is essential that the water is heated between 195 and 205 degrees Fahrenheit. Many cheaper models fall short of the mark, but high-end drip coffee makers can deliver a temperature closer to the temperature of a pour-over.
The water is heated within the coffee maker by an element, then it flows through a tube that is made of either aluminum or plastic. The system is usually constructed with a one-way valve which allows the boiling water to pass through but prevents it from returning to the bucket or out of the coffee maker.
Once the water is put into the reservoir, the water will flow down to the compartment which houses the ground coffee and filter. As it drips down, the showerhead sprays the hot water over the beans, causing the gurgling sound you're used to hearing in your kitchen. This process takes a little 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.
A drip-style coffeemaker is easy to use and requires minimal interaction from the user. It's extremely simple to operate and is usually ready to go the moment you flip the power switch. The most basic models can cost as cheap as $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 household with a lot going on, 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 on their own schedule. It's as simple as placing in a coffee pod or a pre-packaged K-Cup by pressing an on and taking a mugful. With certain models, you can make tea and hot cocoa to spice up your life or fill travel cups.
These machines are compact and easy to operate, taking up little space on the countertop. They are cheaper than drip machines, and usually at local or online stores. A one-cup brewer is more expensive in the long run, since you have to purchase K-Cups and coffee pods.
To offset the cost, consider investing in a model that accepts ground coffee and has a removable reusable filter to make sustainable coffee brewing. Certain models come with tall openings for large travel mugs, as well as dishwasher-safe components. It's essential to read the coffee maker's manual to determine how often you need to change the water filter.
Most coffee lovers are looking to avoid the waste generated by paper filters. Instead look for filters that permit mesh filters that can be used with most grounds. Some models have a reservoir built-in that will alert you when to refill the water.
Cleaning a single-serve coffee maker is a fairly quick process, since it can be done with a solution of white vinegar and water. Make sure you unplug the machine and take out the reservoir for water and coffee pod holder. Rinse the container thoroughly using warm soapy tap water. If you own a Keurig maker or a similar brand, follow the manufacturer's instructions for how often to change the water filter.
Most models have a small footprint, making them great for smaller apartments and homes. Some models have a drip tray that is built-in which means you don't have to keep an additional tray on your counter. These models are available in a silver-colored finish to complement other kitchen appliances.
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 may seem daunting, but it's much simpler than you imagine. It offers a great deal of customization in order to get the perfect cup of coffee. The top pour-over makers are simple to clean and use, don't require power sources, and are made of durable materials that retain heat well.
Pour overs are not like drip coffee makers with electric drips. They usually only have one or two metal or ceramic components and have no wires to break or clog. They are less likely to require repairs or replacements as they age and can be used for many decades. They also have a minimal elegant design that will appeal to coffee lovers and the "Buy It For Life" crowd who prefer to reduce the amount of waste they leave behind.
There are several types of pour-overs that are available. The Chemex style is, however, the most popular. It's made of non-porous Borosilicate glass which is a good choice for coffee because it is durable and doesn't absorb odors or chemicals. This model requires a Chemex paper filter, which isn’t the cheapest choice. It takes longer to make 8 cups than other models tested.
Melitta is also a great pour over. It has a simple but sturdy design, and offers many options for coffee drinkers. The Classic Pour Over is their most affordable model, and it includes a stainless-steel mesh filter which removes the need for disposable paper filters. It is equipped with a thermal water carafe that keeps the water warm. The flow rate can also be adjusted to determine the speed at which water is poured onto the ground.
Most pour-overs require a medium size grind, which is most accessible and readily available in grocery stores. Some 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 gorgeous 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. In the past, during lavish celebrations and banquets, this kind of coffee maker was used to serve coffee to guests. This may be the reason why this device has an attractive appearance.
A siphon coffeemaker uses an unique method to make coffee by using water vapors. It is also known as the brewing method that is based on immersion, and is considered one of the most sophisticated methods. It makes the perfect cup of coffee that has the most balanced flavor compared to other methods of brewing.
The device is made up of two glass containers joined by tubes. The lower vessel holds water while the upper one is filled with coffee beans ground to a fine powder. The device is positioned on a heating source, such as a gas stove or electric heater. When the lower chamber begins to heat up it is set up. The pre-ground coffee can then be added to the upper chamber and the device is secured. After the coffee has been prepared, it is taken from the source of heat and allowed to cool before serving.
Before using your siphon coffee maker, it is a good idea to test the equipment by heating water, then running it over the grounds. This will ensure that the device works properly and will not clog or cause damage to the grounds. It is also crucial to choose the right amount of grounds to prevent your beverage from tasting bitter or watery.
To get the best flavor from your siphon brewer, it is important to grind your coffee beans to a medium-fine consistency. This can be done with either a burr grinder or manual hand grinder, based on your preference. Once the grounds are prepared, they should be placed in the upper chamber of your coffeee maker and stirred gently with bamboo paddle or a spoon. Be sure to cover the grounds with water at all times to prevent them from drying out and losing their flavor.