True coffee connoisseurs are especially critical of the choice of bean type, so instant drinks are not even taken into account. But to prepare delicious coffee in a Turk, you need to spend enough time. And the good thing about a coffee machine is that you only need to press one button and get the desired cappuccino or latte. In addition, there is no need to ensure that the drink does not “leak” and burn. While you spend time getting ready in the morning, the mini-barista in your kitchen makes you coffee.
The link tells you how to drink coffee correctly:
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Types of coffee makers: pros and cons
There are several main types of coffee makers.
Capsule coffee maker
To prepare coffee, special capsules are used, which are sold in any supermarket. Capsules are ground coffee sealed inside a container. There are several flavor options, from latte to nut macchiato, focus on your preferences.
Water is poured into the coffee maker and a capsule is inserted into the compartment. All that remains is to place the cup and start the device. Under pressure, the capsule is pierced, a stream of hot water flows through it, which is poured into the cup. Each capsule contains a precisely measured amount of coffee, ensuring consistent taste and quality of the drink.
Advantages:
Easy to use; quick coffee preparation; a wide range of different capsule flavors: espresso, Americano, latte, cappuccino; small dimensions of the device, which allow you to place the coffee machine in the kitchen.
Disadvantages:
the drinks have an average or even below average concentration, the high cost of capsules, one of the disadvantages of capsule coffee machines is the problem of waste from used capsules; Some manufacturers offer biodegradable or recyclable capsules to reduce their environmental impact.
Photo: istockphoto.com/lenta
Capsule coffee maker
The principle of operation is similar to that of the capsule. Only in this case capsules are not needed, but pods: paper bags with frequent perforations and with already ground coffee. In appearance, they resemble ordinary tea bags. The capsule is also placed in the compartment and filled with hot water.
Advantages:
Easy to use; quick coffee preparation.
Disadvantages:
Small selection of flavor pods and their high cost.
Carob coffee maker
The device, which is often called an espresso machine, is equipped with a stand with a handle. Using a special device, a tamper, the ground coffee is compacted, then the horn is inserted into the recess of the device and the preparation of the drink begins. Some models have built-in coffee grinders and cappuccino makers.
Advantages:
the ability to prepare dairy drinks using a cappuccino maker, you can control the intensity level of the coffee.
Disadvantages:
After each use, it is necessary to clean the cone and filter.
Photo: istockphoto.com/morrowlight
automatic coffee maker
A real find for coffee connoisseurs. This machine will do everything by itself: you only need to control the volume of water, coffee beans and milk. Typically, the ingredient reservoirs are designed in such a way that several cups of coffee can be prepared.
The automatic coffee maker is equipped with a control panel; You can choose the drink you want today, from the classic espresso to an unusual ristretto. This device is convenient because the coffee grounds fall into a built-in urn, which must be emptied periodically. Depending on the model and additional functions, it is possible to prepare two cups at the same time, and there is also a built-in water filtration system.
Advantages:
great selection of drinks; richer coffee flavor; Fast and automated operation.
Disadvantages:
high price Large dimensions of the device, which will have to be allocated a separate place.
Photo: istockphoto.com/PrathanChorruangsak
Important features
Before choosing a coffee machine for your home, you should familiarize yourself with the technical indicators and understand which ones you need.
Force
High power allows you to make coffee faster. However, these devices have a significant energy cost. Therefore, if you are not usually in a hurry and are willing to spend a little more time preparing coffee, choose models with a power of 1000-1500 W.
hot water pressure
The preparation of coffee in the brewing unit depends on this. It is preferable to choose devices with medium pressure, since a low level will not allow the drink to reach its normal concentration and saturation.
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Heater type
Two types of heating elements are normally used.
Boiler. The water is heated in a special boiler compartment to the required temperature. After that, the liquid passes through the ground coffee and as a result we get a drink. The advantage of a boiler system is energy savings and increased productivity. Devices with boilers are usually used in cafes.
Thermoblock. In this case, the water is heated in batches using spiral heating elements. Most home coffee makers are equipped with this system. They are more compact and lighter.
Coffee and water tank volumes.
It all depends on how many cups of coffee you intend to make in a short period of time, for example in the morning. A water tank with a volume of 1.5 to 2 liters is enough for a family of two adults.
Follow the link to read more about the different types of coffee:
Espresso, cappuccino and latte: what is the difference between the most popular types of coffee
Additional functions
Some models are equipped with additional functions that make the process of preparing drinks more comfortable.
Timer
An audible signal alerts you when the coffee is ready. Drink while it’s hot.
Prepare two cups at the same time
This is very convenient if there is more than one coffee gourmet in the family. It is not necessary to wait your turn, but you can enjoy an aromatic drink together.
Photo: istockphoto.com/DoroO
Improve flavor
This happens due to the preliminary preparation of coffee: the drink turns out to be richer, more aromatic and stronger.
Self-cleaning descaling
Such a system itself controls the formation of minerals and neutralizes them; These devices usually also include automatic cleaning of the cappuccino maker. However, these systems cannot completely clean the tanks, so hand washing will still be necessary.
cup warming
The cup on the tray is heated before preparing and dispensing the liquid. In addition, you will forget about a problem like cold coffee.
Hot chocolate
There are devices with a separate container for grated chocolate, cocoa and milk. Children will be delighted with this invention: you can prepare hot chocolate every morning. The main thing is under the supervision of parents.
Photo: istockphoto.com/ollinka
Choosing coffee beans for a coffee maker
With capsule and pod devices, everything is clear: the taste characteristics are indicated on the capsules and pods themselves. And for carob and automatic machines, it is advisable to choose beans that determine the quality and flavor of the coffee. Therefore, some points should not be ignored. Namely:
Freshness of the grains. It is preferable to choose freshly roasted coffee beans, as they retain their rich aroma and flavor. Pay attention to the roasting date on the package.Type of coffee. Each one has its own characteristics. Check out the different varieties (Arabica, Robusta and others) and choose the one that suits your preferences.The degree of roasting of coffee beans. It affects your taste.
How to care for your coffee maker?
Caring for your carob coffee maker
After each use, rinse the carob filter under running water to remove coffee residue. It is recommended to clean the body and other surfaces of the coffee maker with a dry cloth.
Cleaning the coffee maker. Clean your coffee machine regularly using special cleaning tablets or a solution to remove scale and sediment. This will help keep the device clean and running smoothly.
Maintenance of the coffee grinder. If your coffee maker has a built-in grinder, clean it periodically to maintain the quality of the ground coffee.
Replacement of filters and accessories. Depending on the coffee maker model, check the condition of the filters and gaskets. Replace them quickly when necessary to avoid leaks and other problems.
Cleaning the coffee funnel. Debris often gets trapped in the hole where the coffee grinder is inserted. So, once a week, use the handle of a spoon to carefully scrape up the frozen coffee.
Photo: istockphoto.com/Probuxtor
Caring for capsule and single-dose coffee machines
After each use, wipe the outside of the coffee maker and the capsule tray with a damp cloth. This will help remove coffee residue and keep the device clean.
Clean and disinfect your water tank regularly to prevent bacteria and mold from growing. Use mild detergents and rinse the compartment thoroughly before filling.
Taking care of your automatic coffee maker
Cleaning the brewing unit
Periodically, remove the brewing unit and wash it under running water.
Change the built-in water purification filter to prevent scale buildup. They are designed for a certain amount of liquid (usually indicated in the instructions).
By the way, many devices have a cleaning system that indicates contamination. More modern models even block the cooking process. Don’t expect coffee until you wash it.
Read about which coffee has the most caffeine here:
Which coffee has the most caffeine? Nutritionist compared varieties and preparation methods.
Clean the cappuccino maker
It is recommended to rinse the automatic cappuccino maker well and dry it after each use. Otherwise, the milk will dry out and clog the tube itself through which the liquid is supplied.
The cappuccino maker can be washed with normal dishwashing detergent or in the dishwasher. If you haven’t noticed it yet and the milk has turned into a hard crust, then soak the cappuccino maker in warm water with a small amount of detergent.
Photo: istockphoto.com/yacobchuk
How to choose a coffee machine: 8 tips
First, decide how often and how many cups of coffee you will make daily. Based on this decision, pay attention to the criteria below.
Decide on the type of coffee machine: study the pros and cons of capsule, carob, single-serve and automatic machines. Availability of a cappuccino coffee maker. Suitable for lovers of coffee drinks with milk. With this device you can whip foam, prepare cappuccino, latte, white coffee and other types of coffee. A coffee grinder is available. If you don’t have time to grind beans, you will definitely like a device with a built-in coffee grinder. By the way, it wouldn’t hurt to ask what material the coffee grinder wheels are made of. Steel ones are considered the most durable, but they grind coffee with a lot of noise. Ceramic ones generate less noise, but are quite fragile. Additionally, built-in coffee grinders have stepped grind levels; You can choose according to your taste. For example, a fine drink is ideal for a strong cup of espresso.Recommendations. Study of brands, opinions and customer comments. Budget. Decide the amount you are willing to spend on the purchase. Consider not only the cost of the machine itself, but also the cost of the coffee, filters and other consumables.Type of coffee. Different devices require different types of coffee: for capsule devices they are capsules, for capsule devices they are single-serves. For other models: ground coffee and beans. Box material. The most economical and economical are plastic coffee makers, the most expensive but reliable are metal ones.Environmental aspects. Pay attention to the possibility of using biodegradable or recyclable materials (capsules and pods) in the coffee maker, as well as the energy efficiency of the device.
Photo: istockphoto.com/brizmaker
A coffee machine is a mini-barista in your kitchen. The device not only prepares coffee to your liking, but also saves time. When choosing a coffee maker, you must take into account some key factors that will help you determine the model most suitable for your needs. First, determine what type of coffee maker you prefer: automatic, carob, capsule or single-serve. Each type has its own characteristics and functionality.
Specify what types of coffee you plan to make: espresso, latte, cappuccino, Americano. Consider the size and power of the coffee machine to match your kitchen space and electrical power. Evaluate the functionality of the coffee machine, such as the presence of a built-in coffee grinder, cappuccino maker, temperature and pressure control. Determine your budget for purchasing a coffee machine and choose a model that suits your financial capabilities.
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