Imagine waking up to the alarm and smelling freshly roasted coffee beans. As the smell travels through the house, the water begins to drip. The best of the morning is on its way. Not a morning person? Most coffee critics will agree that a good cup of java makes all the difference in the world.
The first step in choosing the coffee maker that will wake its owner up smiling every morning is to understand the process of making coffee. Different coffee makers use different techniques and processes to make coffee. Decide for yourself how much difference the technique makes!
Some coffee connoisseurs like the old-fashioned method of making coffee, using a percolator. Unlike antique models, though, some models with a percolator may be cordless or programmable, or may even offer other features as well. Another model that uses vintage coffee-making methods is the vacuum-style coffee maker. These coffee makers feature two glass compartments stacked atop each other. Many of those made today include a number of modern features, including timers.
One option to consider when making a cup of coffee for one or two persons is the stovetop coffee maker. Enjoy a leisurely morning and brew two fresh cups of coffee in an elegantly designed stovetop model. Another quick alternative for making one or two fresh cups of coffee is the French press. French press models allow coffee grounds and water to steep in a single container. Afterward, a press is used to remove the grounds from the drinkable coffee.
Go modern and brew a single cup of coffee in short order with a pod coffee maker. These new, convenient makers use high pressures to force heated water through a pod filled with coffee grounds. For multiple cups of coffee, choose the old favorite stand-by: a drip coffee maker. A drip coffee maker will allow hot water to pour through a basket containing ground coffee beans. The water drips through to a collection carafe. Usually, these models offer the most intense flavor, as well as the greatest volume in the shortest amount of time.
Which coffee maker is best? Today, electric coffee maker models are equipped with a wide variety of features designed to make that first essential cup easier and more convenient to brew than ever before. The majority of electric coffee makers use glass carafes. Viewing coffee levels, is easy. The glass carafe sets on the heating unit at the base of the coffee maker, and coffee drips into it. Some of these models allow users to adjust the setting of these hot plates so that the coffee can be heated to the desired temperature.
Glass carafes are popular, and are available in a variety of coffee pot sizes. Some single-serve coffee makers use a pod or other option to brew a single cup of coffee at a time. Other sizes that are commonly sold include four- or five-cup, or eight-, ten-, or twelve-cup coffee makers. A few smaller-sized coffee makers feature thermal carafes instead of glass carafes. Coffee stays hotter longer without becoming burned. Since thermal carafes don't require a heating unit, they are very portable.
For households with decaf and regular coffee drinkers, a dual brewing station can be very useful. This system is also known as a double-pot system, and allows two pots of coffee to brew simultaneously. Today, these and many other models are programmable coffee makers. This is ideal for people who want to have their coffee brewed by the time the alarm sounds, or for people on a tight morning schedule. For those who crave the taste and smell of freshly ground coffee, a coffee maker with a built-in grinder may be just the perfect choice. These models are perfect for coffee connoisseurs who want top-quality coffee in each cup.
Go for the Gusto with an Espresso Machine
Deciding on the best type of espresso machine to purchase depends, quite frankly, on just how much time and effort each cup is worth. Some espresso lovers that only a manual espresso machine will offer a quality cup of espresso. These are more complicated to use, but most people who purchase these models argue that the results are well worth the effort. Another alternative is a semiautomatic espresso machine. This model is fairly easy to use, but allows the user to adjust the heating temperature, tamp, and brewing pressure with each cup.
Truly automatic espresso machines are even less complicated than semiautomatic espresso machines. Press a button, and voile! Out comes the espresso! These machines are popular in coffee cafes or restaurants. For a super-fast shot of energy, opt for a super-automatic espresso machine. These models expedite the entire espresso-making process, from start to finish.
Finding the right grinder and accessories for a coffee or espresso machine can help to ensure that the morning gets off to the right start. A coffee grinder will ensure fresh flavor with each pot. Experts usually prefer a burr grinder; this will allow them to select exactly how coarsely or finely ground the coffee beans should be. Those who aren't going to be making espresso can get away with a blade grinder for drip coffee makers.
Choose a glass carafe, thermos, or coffee pot that will keep the coffee at the perfect temperature until it is served or finished. Espresso makers will want a frothing pitcher and thermometer. Espresso cleaning kits are available for those who use their espresso makers frequently. A group brush and Cleancaf are also helpful.
Now that you have all you need for the perfect cup of coffee each morning, it's time to choose coffee beans. Opt for a robust flavor or a milder brew, and get ready to start making each morning special with that perfect cup of coffee that starts the day just right.