Coffee Maker UK - What Type of Coffee Maker is Right For You?
A coffee maker is the key to making delicious, fresh coffee at home. The type you select will depend on how much you like to brew, what space you have available and how busy your schedule is. Pod or bean to cup machines are excellent options to make coffee more convenient and for those who love the quality of barista-style home coffee.
Pod Machines
Pod coffee machines are the perfect method to speed up the morning coffee making process without sacrificing quality. These machines work with pre-packaged grounds that are sealed inside a capsule or pod using the same principles that Starbucks and other coffee chains use. When you insert a pod into the machine, it's automatically punctured and water is moved through to extract ground coffee. You can also pick from different sizes of pods, which differ in taste and strength.
The majority of these machines come with an integrated water filter to ensure that you're using only filtered high-quality, top-quality water. You can also buy reusable filters, which can be cleaned and removed every two weeks to ensure the machine is operating efficiently. There are models that come with an energy-saving mode for sleeping so that they don't use up electricity when you're away.
The best pod machines have a range of features that can enhance your experience. These include automatic shut-offs and pre-programmed cleaning cycles. They also offer a wide variety of pre-set drink options including flat whites to cappuccinos so you can get the exact taste you want every time. If you want a higher-end model, choose one with customisable presets, such as including hot cocoa or milk.
Pod machines are great for those who want the convenience of a quick and simple coffee to start their day. They're fast, brewing espresso in just 30 seconds and delivering a rich, aromatic shot of espresso using capsules or pods that have the right amount of pre-ground coffee for one shot. When you do it manually it's extremely easy to make too much or too little - and the resulting coffee can be bitter or weak.
A premium pod coffee machine like the Nespresso Vertuo can provide you with an consistently outstanding cup of coffee machines for Offices thanks to its unique Centrifusion technology that spins the capsule at up to 7,000rpm to maximise extraction and flavour. It's quiet, comes with simple controls and a clear display, and it is backed by a two-year warranty.
Bean to Cup Machines
A bean-to-cup maker eliminates the guesswork of making the perfect espresso. The machines grind the beans prior to use, making sure that they are as fresh as is possible. This also means you are in control of the taste and strength of your coffee and can customize it just how you like it.
There are a number of different models available that range from basic and fun to mid-ranged and expensive. The primary difference in price is the dimensions and features. The larger and more sophisticated models cost more. If you're looking for a simple model that does the job well you'll be able find a model that is less than PS100.
Most bean to cup machines allow you to make espresso and milk based drinks but you'll discover that some do not have a separate milk frothing system. I suggest the Gaggia line of bean-to-cup machines, particularly the Cadorna or Magenta models in the event that you're looking for one that can make espresso. The top models come with a professional steam wand that allows you to alter the flavor of your coffee.
If you're thinking of purchasing an espresso machine that is more expensive take into consideration whether you'll need the extra features. Sage espresso machines with integrated grinders have a built-in milk frother that is perfect for those who wish to make cappuccino or Latte. However, if you're content just making Americano and don't plan on making any other milky coffee drinks, this isn't essential.
Some bean-to-cup machines don't have milk frothing systems. This includes the Siemens EasyCup and Melitta Caffeo. You can also buy a separate milk frothing wand for these machines, in order to be able to make milky drinks. Some machines come with an external container for milk, like Sage Cappuccinatore or De'Longhi's ECAM22750. These work by using a tube that is inserted into your milk bottle - the milk is then sucked in it, frothed and dispensed in your coffee.
Filter Machines
Filter machines are often left out when it comes to coffee brewing. Pods and bean-to-cup options are more popular. But, a top-quality filter machine is a good option for those looking to make excellent coffee on a dime. These traditional machines heat water to a particular temperature before passing it through ground beans and then into a jug of filter coffee. Although they are less complicated than their pod and bean-to-cup counterparts, there are a number of different features and functions that can help you choose the right filter machine for your home.
Typically they come with the capacity to brew a large amount of coffee and an easy single-cup function to make a cup at one time (though you can also use a standard mug). There are usually a variety of options for brewing that let you adjust the strength of your coffee. You can also regulate the temperature so that it is always the right strength. Some filter machines come with built-in timers, which means that you can set it up at night and awake to an ice cube of filter coffee waiting for you. Some have a permanent reusable paper filter that reduces waste and costs.
Some filter machines have various other useful functions such as adjustable flow rate settings, quiet brew technology and automatic shut off. Some filtering machines feature a digital screen, touch buttons, or descaler. These are often designed to be clean and easy to clean, making them a great option for busy households and families.
The Sage Precision Brewer is a good choice for any coffee drinker regardless of whether you're a serious filter lover or an adventurous coffee lover. It has a pleasant appearance and feel, with a compartment for accessories that are hidden beneath the drip tray. The buttons are easy and responsive to press. It's also relatively inexpensive at PS100 and makes a great cup of filter coffee.
If you're searching for a filter coffee maker to suit your budget this model from Melitta is a great choice. It's compact however it can still make an adequate amount of coffee - enough for three to four cups. It has many settings that can be customised, and you can save four of your favorite drinks. This is great for those who change their drink frequently.
Percolator
Percolators look like kettles from the outside, but feature a tube running through the middle, and an affixed filter at the top. The water in the bottom chamber is heated until it is at a boil and then the bubbles are sent up the tube and over the grounds of coffee. The hot water is circulated over the grounds several times until it reaches your desired strength and can then be poured into your cup. This is a well-known method of brewing that provides hot, steaming coffee but it can also be finicky and may result in a few aborted attempts to get it just right. This is a less sophisticated method of brewing, and it can result in a strong and rough coffee. It is perfect for camping or traveling.
The water in a percolator should not be too hot, because this could cause grounds of the coffee to burn. This can result in bitter taste. It is best to use water that has been filtered to ensure that the water is as close to boiling temperature as it is. Pre-heating the stove can be helpful so that the water is already be hot when you start making coffee. This can help speed up the process. You should then be careful to move the coffee percolator to another burner once the brewing is finished and switch off the stove as well.
The percolator is an excellent option for those who enjoy a more rustic cup from the comfort of their own home. Although it's somewhat less user-friendly than the drip machine, it is still a reliable and excellent option that produces an enjoyable cup of coffee every time.