Types of Coffeemakers
Coffee makers are standard equipment and most kitchens throughout the world, but how do you know which one is the best one for you? There are many different types, styles, and manufacturers, and you should select yours carefully in order to be sure to get the perfect cup of coffee.
Perhaps you remember the percolator that sat on the kitchen counter at holidays and family gatherings bubbling water through the coffee grounds to create enough coffee for everyone? These were very large contraptions, but scaled-down models were made for everyday use in the kitchen. However nostalgic as they may be, a percolator is probably not what you want to use for your daily coffee. Why? For one thing, they take too long but for another the actual percolating method can often make the coffee taste bitter, and often coffee grounds get into the cups of coffee.
The automatic drip coffee maker is probably the most popular of modern coffee makers. You can see them on most kitchen counters today. They are quick to brew, making about 6 cups in under 10 minutes. It also does a good job preserving flavor. The coffee from these makers does not contain a lot of the sediment and oils that you might find with other brewing methods.
The French press is a simple device, a glass tube with a mesh screen plunger that fits inside to filter the coffee grounds. Sometimes called the plunger pot or press pot, it can be enjoyable to use, but be sure only to use it when you can drink the coffee right away as there is no means to keep the coffee hot. However, since you do use near boiling water, it is quite hot when it first comes out of the pot. The French press produces a full-bodied aromatic brew.
Espresso makers are very popular today, and there is actually a stovetop brewer, or if you are a real espresso connoisseur, you can opt for one of the very expensive electric makers. Using a stovetop brewer is easy, simply fill it with water, put your grounds in the filter, and place the whole thing on a source of heat. You'll get a rich cup of coffee with this method but it might look a little cloudy as there is a fine powder that will settle to the bottom of the cup. Coffee made with this method has a full body and aroma.
These are the major types of coffee makers you might consider today. However, there are many different manufacturers and different styles with all types of options. Your best bet is to shop around and find one that best meets your needs and your price range.
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