Coffee Brewing Methods: Is Your Coffee Brewer Just a Drip?

Each night, millions of us coffee lovers pile heaping tablespoons of our favorite gourmet coffees into those paper filters, fill the tank of our coffee makers with water and set the timer so that our coffee is ready and waiting first thing in the morning. For most of us, brewing up our morning cup of coffee is more than just a necessity, it is a matter of convenience.

But why would anyone spend good money on the finest gourmet coffee beans or fresh ground gourmet coffees and use just any home coffee maker.

So if you are like me and you enjoy the finest gourmet and specialty coffees available, then you must also believe that they deserve the best and most reliable coffee brewing equipment available.

Here is a quick list of the most popular coffee brewing methods & equipment starting from the best:

French Press The French press coffee maker (or press pot) is universally recognized as the best brewing method, allowing for the truest coffee taste and aroma. This method actually brews the coffee in the hot water (as opposed to drip machines which only pass the water through the coffee and a filter). After a few minutes of brewing, a metal filter is pressed through the brew catching the coffee grinds and then trapping them at the bottom of the carafe. What is left over is full-bodied coffee with all its aroma and essences.

French Press

One of the main advantages to using a French press, other than great coffee taste, is the amount of control you have. You can control the water temperature (which incidentally should be around 190 to 200 degrees Fahrenheit, a temperature that drip makers do not achieve), you can control the amount of coffee you want to add, and you can control the brew time. Four minutes of brew time and 30 seconds of "plunging" time is considered best.

Another great feature about the French press is that it is extremely portable and only requires hot water. You can take it camping or use it in places with limited kitchen space, like a boat or an RV. Some press pots can also be used to brew loose leaf teas in the same manner.

As an aside, you shouldn't leave your brewed coffee in the press-pot with the grounds after you brew it! Either consume it or transfer it to a carafe, preferably a thermal carafe.

Vacuum Brewer Vacuum brewers aren't very common, but they make coffee just about as well as a French press since the coffee and water are brewing together. A vacuum brewer has an upper and a lower chamber connected by a tube with a small filter inside. Coffee grounds are placed in the upper chamber, and water is placed in the lower chamber. As the lower chamber is heated, the water rises up to meet the coffee in the upper chamber where the brewing begins. After brewing, the water (now coffee) cools and seeps back down into the lower chamber leaving the used coffee grinds behind in the upper chamber. Ideally, the upper chamber is removed and the lower chamber is used as a decanter for the finished coffee.

Vacuum Brewer

Vacuum brewers can be electric, stovetop, or even used over a sterno can for dramatic tabletop brewing!

The Toddy Maker The toddy maker or Cold-Brew Coffee Maker uses an unusual cold-brewing method that creates a coffee concentrate. This concentrate is then mixed with hot water to make coffee. The concentrate can be stored in a refrigerator and used to make one cup at a time if you so desire. This method produces a low-acid coffee, which is doctor recommended for coffee drinkers with stomach conditions.

The Toddy Maker

Although this method of coffee brewing is sounds a bit odd, the result in taste is pleasantly surprising. One drawback is the amount of time it takes to brew. A good idea is to brew the coffee overnight. Once brewed, the concentrate can produce more than just one pot of coffee, so it's not a nightly event for a great cup of morning coffee!

Drip Grind Coffee Makers Drip Grind coffee makers are the most common and usual coffee brewing method that we are familiar with.

Drip Grind Coffee Makers

In this method, water is dripped over and passes through the coffee grinds and a filter and is caught by the coffee pot below. Despite being the most common brew method it also happens to be the one which produces a coffee brew with the least amount of flavor and aroma.

There are generally 2 filter options for the drip grind coffee makers.

Permanent filters : are just what they say, permanent. They are usually gold-plated so they don't add any unwanted metallic taste to your coffee, resistant to corrosion so they are dishwasher safe and economical because they don‘t need replacing. Permanent filters are preferred because they allow for better coffee taste as opposed to the second filter option, paper filters.

Permanent filters Permanent filters

Paper filters are the most common filter choice for the drip grind coffee makers. Unfortunately, paper filters can filter out more than just coffee grinds. Flavorful oils can be left behind in the filter and not make it to the finished coffee brew resulting in less coffee flavor and aroma. Since permanent filters allow for more liquid to pass through, the end result is a more flavorful cup.

Paper filters Paper filters

If you are one of these people, don‘t just splurge on gourmet coffee's, get a small French press maker, start experimenting and experience the truest coffee flavor & aroma in each cup. Since, mornings usually need to be made quick and simple, most people have never had their coffee brewed any other way. As you can see, the most common brew method happens to be the one which produces the least amount of coffee flavor and aroma.

The Local Coffee Shop

How about restaurants, parks, malls or my favourite, the local coffee shops? What I would like to share here is to keep a real look out and be totally aware of the possible gig locations and don't limit yourself. Many musicians complain about the lack of gigs they have, but when I ask them to look closely at the type of venue they are searching, the repeated pattern seems to be clubs, stadiums, concert halls and pubs.

Make it your second residence! Depending on the venue, you can drop in several times and build links with staff and get a feel for the type of customers that come there. Coffee shops are the next link in the chain of great gigs.

Drinking coffee Depending on the type of music, coffee shops represent the perfect venue for musicians to meet with their perfect audience, and if they are your right audience, what must your audiences be doing if they're not watching you?

I personally like these places because it's nice and cosy, allowing you to build deeper relationships with the crowds. It's like the middle space, or the third space. Coffee shops are great place for people who want a break from both work and home.

You can guarantee most of them will be at your event. By placing several posters in the coffee shops were the same people go everytime between home and work, it is something they can't miss, and are definitely going to remember. If people see your name several times, they remember it, and create a link in their mind. Something that works day in, day out is the power of repetition.

So how do you get booked?

It's important to target the right show for the right venue. If you play acoustic guitar and sing with a soft voice, don't go to a coffee where staff shout to customers that their order is ready.

Also pay attention to the peak and off-peak times at the coffee shop as you can use this to your advantage really easily. If you play in the morning when it's peak time and attract many customers for the shop, you'll notice that the lunch area may be very low in customers, so pitched correctly, you could ask the shop management if you could play in the afternoon, and attract the customers that way.

Don't expect to be paid by the coffee shop management, but one way to grow your audience is to collect mailing list signups. This way you can inform them by post or e-mail where you are next because there will definitely want to be a part of your music.

The most important thing is that you have already built up great relationships so that you can emphasise how you will bring more people to their place.

© Kavit Haria, The Musicians' Coach

A Coffee Roaster For All Occasions

A good coffee roaster has begun to take on a glamorous aura. Coffee roasters and those who roast, brew and serve the ultimate cup of coffee are now esteemed professionals within the social fabric of our community at large.

So, because roasting is everywhere, how do you choose the coffee roaster for you? The professional barista is a now fiercely competitive industry and cafes and restaurants across the globe fight to retain the barista that can produce a coffee that will have customers returning time and time again. But there is a café on almost every street corner or every suburb now and every barista thinks of him or herself as the best roaster on the block.

Your first question is whether you're looking for a retail roaster to feed your coffee habit because you are a die hard coffee lover.

They will send you a number of coffee varieties each month for a small fee and this gives you the opportunity to try out blends and pure coffees to see what you prefer. It might take you some time to research this and you might want to join a coffee club so that you can do some extensive taste testing. Once you have found the coffee beans that you like you can then search for that specific bean. One approach is to decide exactly which coffee beans you prefer.

By doing so you can be confident that the beans can be delivered faster and will therefore be fresher when they reach your door. You might also want to look for coffee bean suppliers that are geographically close to you. But once you know what coffee you are after, the online suppliers can tell you which of the coffee roasters that carry the beans you are looking for, who has the freshest beans and who has most skill in roasting them to perfection.

But before you make your final decisions, consider organic coffee as an option. Organic coffee is another choice you might want to make. This coffee is certified to have been grown and processed without chemical intervention and is becoming more and more popular with wholesale outlets. It generally has a mild nutty flavor. It is also becoming popular with celebrities who are eager to adopt the coffee cause. Organic coffee, understandably sells very well in Hollywood.

Enjoy your next coffee! Now all that is left to do is try several brands of coffee to find out which one you like the best.

Glass Top Coffee Table

Coffee tables are an essential part of our homes; therefore, they are an intricate part of our families. We want a coffee table that represents our style, our fashion, and our sense of pride. Nothing is as convenient or versatile as a coffee table. Of course, some coffee tables are loved more than others are. For instance, glass top coffee tables often considered the crème de la crème of the coffee table world. The glass offers an additional elegance and perfection only found with glass.

There is nothing quite as versatile as a glass top coffee table. These beauties go with any décor and highlight any room. The base of the coffee table can be anything, but my favorite is aluminum. When you add aluminum legs with the glass top, all I can say is wow. There is nothing in the world that is more elegant or beautiful. I am fond of glass tops simply because they are easy to clean. All you have to do to clean one is grab window cleaner and paper towels. Nothing fancy to remember. Some wood has extremely delicate features and requires special care, not so with glass.

You can get these almost anywhere. Of course, some places will definitely have better quality than others will. For example, a glass top coffee table purchase at Pier 1 is probably going to be better quality than one you purchase at your local K-Mart. The price will probably be rising with the quality though, so it is often difficult finding a happy balance. If you just like to window shop, the Internet is an awesome monitor-shopping tool. Indeed, you can find what you want via the Internet and find a local store that offers you the same product. I say local because it can get extremely difficult and expensive to purchase a glass top coffee table via the Internet.

We have already mentioned the ease of cleaning and the immense beauty, but I would also like to mention how difficult these are to break. I thought "glass" is by definition easy to break. However, I learned differently. These glass top coffee tables are exceptionally easy to keep together. Of course, if you have a scene like out of a movie and someone comes falling through your roof and lands on your coffee table, I do not care if it is metal, wood, or glass, it is gonna break. These glass top coffee tables are extremely durable and are difficult for that toddler to break. Believe me: I know.

Eugene's family has been in the carpentry industry for generations. During weekends when he has free time, he opens a small workshop in his garage for his local community where he specializes in folding dining room tables . Visit http://www.oftheearthfurniture.com to get Eugene's weekly tidbits on selecting and maintaining various styles and makes of solid wood tables.

folding dining room tables http://www.oftheearthfurniture.com

How Is Kona Coffee Different?

It could be the dependable cloud cover that rolls in each afternoon, protecting the delicate coffee trees from the glaring afternoon sun. It might be the dark rich volcanic soil, which contains a perfect blend of acidity and minerals, and retains just the right amount of water. But there is something different about the Kona coffee cherries produced here that has earned this coffee a worldwide reputation for excellence. Like much of Hawaii, Kona offers ideal climate conditions for growing coffee.

Peaberry is unusual because each coffee cherry contains only one bean, while all other types of Kona contain two beans per cherry. The rarest of Kona Coffee beans is Peaberry, making up only four to five percent of the entire Kona crop each year. Maybe it is simply the fact that 100% Pure Kona Coffee is rare and sometimes hard to find. The difference could also lie in the care with which Kona coffee is handpicked, ensuring that only the highest quality berries are harvested for coffee production.

Coffee Bean Roaster

The flavor and freshness of coffee is at its best when it is roasted in small batches at home. The coffee bean roaster is fast becoming a "must have" in today's kitchens.

It spells disaster for specialty coffee beans creating stale, flavorless coffee. Roasted coffee is very susceptible to oxygen damage when it sits on store shelves and in café bins for days or weeks at a time.

It is the beginning of a new era in coffee history and a major step in the return of great tasting coffee. Today, the coffee bean roaster is a coffee enthusiasts dream, bringing the freshness and quality of roasting fresh gourmet coffee at home.

Once you experience the flavor of fresh gourmet coffee like this you'll want to share it with everyone you know. You'll be surprised to learn how easy and fast it is to roast your own specialty coffee beans at home.

There are basically two types of home coffee bean roasters: fluid bed roasters and electric, radiant heat drum roasters.

Fluid bed roasters work like hot air popcorn poppers. They have a glass-roasting chamber so you can watch as the coffee beans are roasted and stop at the desired roast. These are good for beginners and a great way to get started in home roasting.

The radiant heat drum roaster is more like the professional coffee roasters use. These do not allow you to watch as the beans are roasted so you have to roast by smell or sound.

How about having a roasting party with friends or the family? Home roasting is a lot of fun. You can try some of the best coffees in the world and roast them just the way you like them. What's even more fun and tasty is creating your own custom blends.

So if you haven't tried home roasting, get ready for an amazing treat. Your coffee drinking experience will never be the same once you taste the fresh gourmet coffee you made with your home coffee bean roaster. "Enjoy"

All Rights Reserved Copyright © 2005 Perfect Coffees.com.

How to Select a Single Serve Coffee Maker

These kinds of coffeemaker are designed to produce - as you might expect - a single cup of coffee at a time and they are becoming increasingly popular amongst all kinds of coffee drinkers. An increasing number of us nowadays are wondering how to select a single serve coffee maker that will suit us best at home.

In the past we've been a bit limited in our choices of coffee maker - we've often, for example, had to make a whole pot of fresh coffee just to enjoy a single cup but things are different nowadays.

The Advantages

The Advantages

So, you won't need to make more coffee than you'll actually drink in one sitting. The advantages of single serve coffee stations are primarily found in the fact that they can make just one serving of coffee at a time and that they work real quick as a consequence in comparison to multi serve machines.

So, there'll minimal cleaning up and maintenance to do as well! And, if you choose one of the new single serve pod systems as your final choice here, then you can simply slip a small individual coffee pod into the machine, make your cup of coffee and then throw the pod away.

You can even pick and choose the kinds of coffee you want to drink with these kinds of machines as the pods can come in various types, roasts and flavors. Major coffee companies that make coffee for these pods currently include some big names in the sector such as Douwe Egberts, Melitta and Folgers - so you'll get a guarantee of coffee experience and quality at the same time as well.

Two Types

Two Types

There are basically two ways to use a single serve coffee maker. In the first instance you can buy a conventional coffee machine that uses standard ground coffee via a normal filter system but which only brews a single cup of coffee at a time rather than making up a whole big pot. It is worth noting here that some of these machines may sometimes be able to brew up two cups instead of just one which could give you a little more flexibility. In either case the machine here will brew up directly into your cup extremely quickly and efficiently. Some of these kinds of models even come with their own mug when you buy them!

As single serve machines go this kind of option is reliable but kind of uninspiring if you're looking for something a little different in your coffee drinking. But, if you're still wondering how to select a single serve coffee maker then this may be a good option for you if you simply want an affordable and compact coffee maker for one/two people. Some of these machines are real tiny nowadays and could easily just sit on the end of a desk for real ease of use without taking up too much space.

But, if you want something a little bit more exciting from a single serve coffee maker then you really should also consider something along the lines of one of these new pod systems we've already mentioned. These single serve machines (such as those in the Philips Senseo range, for example) are designed to take a single pod that contains a specific brand, roast or type of coffee at a time.

You unwrap the pod from its packaging, place it in the machine and it brews your coffee up for you into the cup. You can then simply throw the used pod into the trash. Again it's worth noting that some pod systems can be purchased that will make two cups of coffee at a time.

Variety - The Spice of Life

Variety - The Spice of Life

These machines are so popular now partly because they are so convenient and reliable but also because they allow you to buy different varieties, types and flavors of coffee pods. So, you can pick and choose which kind of coffee you will brew at any given time of day without having to keep a huge stock of different types of coffee in your kitchen cupboards.

This does prevent you from having lots of large unopened bags of coffee going stale in your cupboards because you simply cannot drink them that fast. These pods are also all individually sealed so you won't lose freshness as you may do once you open a bag of standard ground coffee.

One complaint that some pod machine users have is that the pods themselves are not always as cost effective as they may be. As you might expect you may have to pay a premium for convenience here so this kind of pod system may well work out to be more expensive to both buy the initial machine and the pods than if you were just buying a small single serve maker and regular bags of coffee.

One key thing to think about as you ponder how to select a single serve coffee maker is compatibility. Some pods can be used in other kinds of standard coffee makers so it's worth while checking on compatibility with your manufacturer. And, some coffee pod systems offer the ability to add a normal filter to the machine so you can use them as a standard single serve machine with your own ground coffee.

Flexibility is vital here as you don't want to buy a coffee maker or a pod system that limits your choices. Some pod systems, for example, will allow you to use other types of pods in the machine as well as those that are made for the particular model. This option is great as you get much more flexibility in terms of coffee drinking choice. However, some systems will only work with their own pods which could see you limited on choice and which could also cost you more in the long run.

It doesn't really matter which system you decide suits you best at the end of the day. You may even opt for both choices! One last thing to remember is that you can get great discounts and bargains on standard single serve coffee makers, pod systems and the pods themselves if you shop around. Many pod system users, for example, shop around on the Internet and then bulk buy pods when they find a bargain.

About the Author

About the Author

Why Is Coffee So Addictive?

An article in the Journal of the American Medical Association shows that when some regular coffee drinkers are suddenly Students have trouble learning and writers may have trouble concentrating. Fatigue and depression are usually associated with coffee with drawls, and many people are unable to function at their usual level of efficiency. An article in the Journal of the American Medical Association shows that when some regular coffee drinkers are suddenly deprived of their morning coffee, they usually get headaches. Students have trouble learning and writers may have trouble concentrating. Fatigue and depression are usually associated with coffee with drawls, and many people are unable to function at their usual level of efficiency. A recent study in the Journal of the American Medical Association shows that when some regular coffee drinkers are suddenly deprived of their morning coffee, they usually get headaches. This sickness I am referring to is called with drawls. Well, if you are dependant on a chemical then you will become sick from not being able to take it. Is there an addiction to coffee that we are not aware of? It has been well documented that coffee also helps you to stay awake. Millions around the world consume coffee.

Can this be a mental addiction? It seems to motivate people to start their day. After all a cup of ambition. It may be the stimulation one receives you know that burst of fast energy that coffee gives you after you wake up. What is it about coffee that makes people over consume it? You may have the shakes, irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, or insomnia from consuming to much caffeine. The more coffee you drink the more antsy you will become. Coffee contains a large amount of caffeine. Is the reason caffeine consumption? Why is that? Those who drink 4 to 10 cups a day may crash and burn (figuratively speaking) without their coffee. Most people who drink a cup or two in the morning are less likely to feel drained if they miss their fix the next day. Well, that all depends on many factors, and the main factor is the amount of coffee consumed. Is it really the coffee that keeps them going?

You may be surprised at the results. Take the test and see if your coffee is truly addictive, or is it mental. If you switch your coffee to decaf and do not tell anyone you did it then if they say "this coffee taste different" you say, "it is a new brand of coffee" they may function just as well as if they had the real thing. Mental addiction is defined as if one believes that he or she is addicted to something with no real basis, so they become mentally addicted.

La Minita Coffee - It's in the Green Beans

La Minita; Spanish for "The Little Gold Mine" says it all. La Minita is arguably the best coffee in the world and is sipped by the who's who in the specialty coffee industry as well as by those of us who have access to it in our businesses. Similar to the wine industry, the best coffees are not always the most expensive. There are many factors involved in determining the final price of a coffee, unfortunately the quality of the bean is only one of them.

La Minita comes from the Tarrazu region of Costa Rica in Central America. This region has long been known for it's quality coffee and remains one of the finest growing regions in the world. The La Minita Estate is located at the pinnacle of this region on a spur between two rivers 5700 feet above sea level. The farm actually has several "Micro Climates" within the farm which effect the crop in different ways. The meticulous way in which coffee is grown, pruned, fertilized, shaded, and weeded all add to the final product. Long before "Organic" was popular, this farm was using machetes to cut back weeds rather than chemicals. Long before "fair trade" was popular this farm was treating it's employees with respect, providing dental and medical resources right on the farm, paying above local scale, providing household items at below cost prices, and encouraged a coffee workers association to promote fair, safe and equitable conditions.

When the "new crop" is in, samples are taken from each of the micro growing regions on the farm and cupped to determine the years mix. The pickers start at daybreak and finish picking about noon. The days harvest is measured from each picker then at a central pick up point and again at the mill. Every La Minita coffee bean arrives at the mill the same day it is picked which is essential in producing the world's best coffee. The milling process is more meticulous than other mills and the beans are watched at each stage of the preparation. When they have reached the point where most beans would be bagged up and exported, LaMinita enters its final stage. Every bean is looked at by trained coffee sorters who go over and over the beans removing any bean that may taint the final cup.

Unlike the other "exotic" coffees of the world, La Minita is in this category for one reason: QUALITY! I once spent a few days with a farmer from Jamaica who wanted to increase his crop. When he was told how to make his coffee better, he replied: "I can sell every bean I can grow for $17.00 a pound; all I want to do is get more production". Unfortunately this is often the case in the exotics. Jamaican Blue Mountain, Hawaiian Kona and other exotics demand high prices but way too often do not deliver the cup. LaMinita sells for far less than Jamaican and Kona and is always a superb coffee at a reasonable price. Visit the La Minita web site at: www.laminita.com .

www.laminita.com

This article is written by Jim Cameron without the permission of La Minita and expresses only the opinions of the Author on what he believes to be the best value coffee in the world. To purchase this coffee green to roast at home, contact: http://www.u-roast-em.com . To purchase this coffee roasted, contact your local coffee roaster or coffee shop.

http://www.u-roast-em.com

All About Coffee Makers

When everything seems to be ok on the outside, then the problem must be on the inside, so here are some tips to help you identify the most common problems and, if you are lucky, repair your coffee maker yourself. Sometimes coffee makers (as nearly everything) get broken for no apparent reason.

If your coffee maker to a different outlet, just to be sure this is not the cause. Possible causes and solutions: This may be caused by a burnt fuse, a defective power cord or something more important. Problem: The coffee maker does not lit, there are no sounds coming from it, and it never heats up.

If it still does not work, contact a coffee maker repairer.

Symptoms: The maker is on and heats up, but hot water is not coming out. Problem: The coffee maker is turned on but you are not getting any coffee.

If it unclogs, run water through your coffee maker a minimum of three times, in order to wash out the vinegar. Try using your coffee maker with vinegar instead of water. Sometimes water leaves calcium and other mineral residues on the tubes, clogging them after a while. Possible causes and solutions: The tubes may be clogged.

Problem: The coffee maker is turned on but you get only dirty cold water instead of coffee. Symptoms: The maker sucks water and pours it onto the coffee, but this water is cold.

Consider buying a new coffee maker. Unfortunately, there is nothing you can do, as replacement coils are extremely difficult to find and install. Possible causes and solutions: The heating coil of your coffee maker may be dead or dying.

From A Coffee Addict

You may have heard the expression, "Once an alcoholic, always an alcoholic." In the same way, you could say "Once a coffee addict, always a coffee addict."

But before I go any further in telling you my story about coffee and all the whys and hows of quitting it, you should now that now is a good time to quit drinking coffee.

You've been eating mostly well, you eat your fruits and vegetables, you've been reading Frederic's newsletter - but you think, "a little cup of coffee once in a while isn't that bad." Plus it's good for the mood.

But I'm telling you right now that that cup of coffee, which I'm sure you're enjoying more often than you'd like to admit it, is preventing you from achieving the levels of health you desire.

Cappuccino, mocaccino, caffe latte, espresso: a dozen ways to reach heaven for a few minutes at your local café. But one day I discovered the gustatory delights of fancy coffee shops and went deeper down into the wicked universe of coffee. At first, it was to get up in the morning. I started drinking coffee in high school. I know because I'm like you.

Of course, my vow to become a raw-foodist ended all that madness. For many years, I resisted the temptation. But you know, once a coffee addict...

I admit having sinned many times. The lure of coffee sure got me more often than I'd like to admit it.

Think about it: Starbucks have popped up all over the place. You can go there with your laptop, answer your e-mails and surf the web on your laptop with their free wireless Internet access, enjoy your delicious coffee and get a bit of the feel that you're really part of this world, all of that for a few dollars only.

Petrene Soames writes in the article "Wake Up and Kick the Caffeine Habit for Good":

"Have you ever wondered why Starbucks is so popular? Why do even the spendthrift amongst us pay over the top prices for a cup of coffee? With great packaging and good marketing Starbucks fills a niche in the national psyche. Identification is a major component. We simply identify with our purchases. Starbucks caters to the fast on-the-go customer and to the kickback and relax customer. The ambiance of the outlets is comfortable and feels like a great place to be, personal enough to take someone new, but safe enough when you aren't ready yet to take that new person home."

" Starbucks, it would seem, oozes cool and we - the consumer - have bought into that big time. But it is not cool to stress our bodies with caffeine, and it is not cool to blanket our emotions with quick-fix products. The longer we hide our true feelings, the longer it will take for us to recognize our true selves. Isn't it really time in all our lives to stop swapping life experiences and happiness for comfort foods and drinks?"

But there's an ugly side to it. Contrary to common belief, even one cup of coffee a day is too much. According to a recent study done at Johns Hopkins University, which examined over 170 years of research on caffeine, true caffeine addiction can occur from drinking only one cup of coffee a day.

According to Melissa C. Stöppler, M.D.,

"Morning caffeine consumption can lead to increases in blood pressure, feelings of stress, and elevated stress hormone levels throughout the day and into the evening hours, according to researchers at Duke University. (...)

"(...) the effects of morning coffee consumption can exaggerate the body's stress responses and increase stress hormone levels all day long and into the evening, even when no further caffeine is consumed in the afternoon. Persons who suffer from stress-related diseases or conditions worsened by stress, such as cardiovascular disease and psychological conditions such as anxiety disorders, could be adversely affected by caffeine intake."

For me, even one cup of coffee taken in the morning will disturb my sleep late at night.

But that's just the beginning.

You don't really know exactly what type of hells are breaking loose in your body when you drink that little occasional cup of coffee you love so much. Just read on my website the articles I have on coffee (http://www.fredericpatenaude.com/ nutrition.html).

But let's be honest about it - half of the addiction or more is psychological. It has something to do with the ritual of the coffee drinker. First I suggest avoiding that too. Don't go to Starbucks. Avoid temptation. Then, once the physical detox is over, you can go back. Go hang out at Starbucks, and instead have a cup of herbal tea, or one of their magic smoothies.

A few words of advice: giving up coffee and replacing it with tea or green tea isn't a good approach. An alcoholic who wants to quit won't go from scotch to beer. He has to stop altogether. And the truth is that tea, especially black tea, contains generous quantities of caffeine. So you can get addicted to it just as you got addicted to coffee. Better to give it up entirely.

I couldn't end this week's e-zine without a little encouragement to all of my coffee drinking readers who are not so sure about getting off the bean:

I promise that you'll feel better. I promise that you'll sleep better. I promise that you'll have headaches less often. I promise that you'll have more energy. I promise that you'll feel better in your body. I promise that your mood will be better.

By the way, the best time to quit drinking coffee is when you think you don't have time to stop drinking coffee.

Dessert - Cognac Coffee with Sesame Wafers

Cognac Coffee

1 Pot Strong Coffee or 1 shot espresso per person Cognac, ¼ Cup per cup of coffee Ground Cinnamon, ¼ tsp per cup of coffee Ground Cinnamon, ¼ tsp per cup of coffee Ground Cardamom, ¼ tsp per cup of coffee Ground Cardamom, ¼ tsp per cup of coffee Ground Cinnamon, ¼ tsp per cup of coffee Ground Cinnamon, ¼ tsp per cup of coffee 1 Cup Heavy Cream ¼ Cup Confectioner's Sugar 1 tsp Vanilla Extract

Continue whipping until stiff peaks form. Whip heavy cream until soft peaks form, and then add in the confectioner's sugar and vanilla.

Top each cup of coffee with whipped cream and serve with cooled Sesame Wafers. ground cinnamon. Pour one cup of strong coffee or espresso for each person; add to each cup ¼ cup Cognac, ¼ tsp.

Sesame Wafers

¾ Cup Softened Butter 1½ Cups firmly packed, light brown sugar 1 tsp. Vanilla 1 Egg 1 Cup Toasted Sesame Seeds (seeds can be toasted in a 350° oven for 15-20 minutes) 1¼ Cup Flour, sifted* ¼ tsp. Baking Powder ¼ tsp. Salt

Cream together butter and sugar. Add vanilla and egg, beat until well blended. Stir in sesame seeds.

In a separate bowl sift* together flour, baking powder and salt; stir into the cream mixture. Drop by teaspoonfuls 2 inches apart onto greased cookie sheet.

Bake at 375° for about 5 to 6 minutes. The cookies should be lightly browned around the edges and crispy. Cool immediately on wire racks.

The sesame wafers can be drizzled or dipped in melted dark chocolate for an added richness.

I included this step because it will yield a finer texture if you sift your flour. I usually do not sift my flour unless it is old most flour today produces good results without sifting. *Sifting the flour is not a required step.

Effective Coffee Enema Recipe for Detoxification

Though some people do, you will want to stay away from commercial coffees that you may have in your kitchen cabinet because they are not developed for coffee enema use and likely won't be effective. You should choose a special organic, fully caffeinated brew designed specifically for use in enemas. Check out this all natural coffee enema recipe when it comes to decreasing the natural toxins found in your system.

By never using decaffeinated coffee blends (because they are not effective for coffee enema use) and commercial coffee products, you will be much more likely to achieve the results you want. Also, you may need to experiment before you find the organic type of coffee and method that works best for you and provides you with the optimal results.

When it comes to actually preparing the enema, check out this great coffee enema recipe:

Eight cups of boiling water

Eight cups of boiling water

Eight large spoonfuls of ground coffee

Eight large spoonfuls of ground coffee

French press coffee pot

French press coffee pot

For the best coffee enema, freshly grind the coffee from beans. This grinding process will ensure your coffee is as fresh as possible and is packed with powerful ingredients to best influence the enema. Using a French press coffee pot will also provide the maximum results as opposed to a traditional drip coffee pot where the water drips over the grounds. This useful device can be found at any kitchen, department, or discount store and purchased inexpensively. The French press combines the ground coffee and the water to ensure you brew a strong mixture for your enema.

The directions to this coffee enema recipe are quite simple: add boiling water to coffee grounds and let sit. Be sure to let the coffee cool for approximately one hour if not longer to not incur any injuries from using hot liquid as an enema. The coffee should be around room temperature and lukewarm. Test the temperature of the coffee by adding a drop to the inside of your wrist, which is a very sensitive part of your body that can adequately detect temperature.

Once the coffee mixture is ready, you should use the french press

to separate the coffee grounds from the liquid. It is crucial you do not include the coffee grounds obtained by this coffee enema recipe, since the grounds may cause unnecessary irritation to your gastrointestinal system. Pour this liquid into an enema bag, bucket, or any other tool frequently used for completing the enema process. From this point, you should follow any instructions provided on your enema kit or provided by your physician.

If you correctly follow this coffee enema recipe, expect the results to properly expel any toxins in your system. Furthermore, correctly following the instructions provided with your enema kit or from your physician will ensure the process is successful.

© Copyright Randy Wilson, All Rights Reserved.

Why You Need To Support Fair Trade Coffee More Than Ever

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The consumption of coffee is rising in the US as it is gaining popularity. We consume a lot of coffee. Some of us cannot even make it through a day without a few cups of coffee. In fact Americans are responsible for one fifth of the world's coffee consumption. So we are the main economic supporter of the coffee industry.

Most Americans would have little idea how the coffee we drink is produced, harvested and shipped to us. We are just thankful that coffee is readily available over the counter whenever we want it.

The Fair Trade coffee movement aims to change all that. As better informed consumers, we are now told of the exploits of some coffee importers. We now realized that many of these coffee workers or farmers who toil tirelessly in the fields are not getting a fair price for their produce.

These farmers are often are getting paid less for their coffee than it cost them to produce and maintain their coffee farms. This will mean that these farmers and their families will never be able to break out of poverty and debt. The Fair Trade coffee movement will make certain that most coffee farmers can get a decent price for their harvest and make a living off it.

Coffee prices can be volatile and when the prices fell very low, many farmers will not be able to support their families and farm lands. Thus the Fair Trade coffee movement is needed more than ever by these farmers. When coffee prices fall, it does not mean that the average consumer will ever enjoy cheaper coffee. Instead, the prices remain just as high. This means that coffee companies are making more profits. However it will mean poverty and hunger for many of these coffee farmers.

The Fair Trade Certified coffee is being introduced in the US to ensure that the coffee was produced under fair labor conditions and a reasonable price was paid for the coffee. This money paid will go into helping the health care, education, ecological stewardship, and financial independence. It will also provide the much needed financing and credit, technological assistance in shifting to better methods of farming and other research purposes.

Help to make all these possible by buying coffee only from Fair Trade Certified coffee companies. This can not only help ensure the quality of coffee and constant supply but also let you sleep better when you know no one is starving so that you can have your cup of coffee.

For more information on coffee, coffee grinders and Fair Trade coffee , please visit Coffee Drinking Tips and Reviews

Fair Trade coffee Coffee Drinking Tips and Reviews

Have a Taste of Jamaica's Blue Mountain Coffee

A cup of good coffee on the breakfast table is always a great way to welcome the morning. Since its inception centuries ago, coffee has become the most popular beverage and the world's most traded and sought-after commodities.

Over the years, many coffee variants have originated from different places, which paved the way for gourmet coffee to have a niche in the world market.

Aside from the basic Robusta and Arabica variants, there are other rare coffee variants which gained a good following from coffee aficionados.

First, there is the Civet coffee or Kopi Luwak, which is made from coffee berries which were eaten and excreted by the common Palm Civet. This rare process takes place only in countries like the Philippines, Sumatra, Java, Indonesia, Vietnam and India, making Civet coffee one of the more expensive variants.

Kona coffee from Hawaii, Turkish, Colombian and Maraba coffee are some other premium variants which have become popular for coffee drinkers the world over.

'Jamaica's Blue Mountains'

The island nation of Jamaica, situated within the Caribbean Sea, has more than just gorgeous beaches to offer.

The amazing Blue Mountains are located at the eastern side of Jamaica, and this is where the famous Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee is grown.

Blue Mountains is a Jamaican region where there is a wide range of hills with an almost permanent mist covering the hills giving it a bluish hue, thus the name.

This mountain range boasts of a National Park with lush rainforests and rich vegetation. It is also home to hundreds of plants and animal species unique to the region.

The upper slopes and the summit are strictly preserved as a forest. The lower slopes, with its rich, fertile soil and ideal climate, serve as the perfect setting for coffee cherries to be grown and harvested from the Blue Mountains.

'Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee: A Taste of Heaven on Earth'

Most coffee plants rely on the climate of the region where they are planted, and this produces the distinctive flavor found in the coffee cherries.

In the Blue Mountains, the tallest mountain range in the island of Jamaica, the following factors contribute to the unique flavor of the coffee:

- the hot climate - the altitude of the lower mountain peaks where the coffee plants are grown and harvested - plenty of rainfall to water the coffee plants - the rich and fertile soil of the mountains where the plants are grown

The Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee is considered to be the world's finest and rarest coffee variant. Words cannot describe the taste of this premier coffee blend.

A 100% Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee has this distinctively rich taste and aroma. Compared to other coffee variants, this has a milder flavor which is less bitter yet a little sweet, giving it that smooth, clean taste.

Because of the high quality expected of this coffee variant, the island country of Jamaica built the Jamaican Coffee Industry Board to maintain the world-class quality of every coffee bean produced in the island.

The tedious and time-consuming labor of coffee growers in planting, harvesting and processing the Blue Mountain coffee is truly amazing.

The Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee is indeed a world-class variant that coffee enthusiasts around the world can sip and enjoy - up to the last drop.

Dave Poon is an accomplished writer who specializes in the latest in Food and Drink. For more information regarding Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee please drop by at http://www.hotcoffeeplus.com/

Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee http://www.hotcoffeeplus.com/

Gano Coffee - Can Coffee Be Good For You?

While many people think that drinking coffee is a "healthy" habit, some experts say that it's very important for them to remember that coffee's main ingredient is caffeine—a "drug" that can be abused even in mild dosages. But, do you know that a single cup of coffee—aside from boosting your alertness, perking you up, and even improving your concentration—can actually lead you to addiction: caffeine addiction. Coffee, in all sorts, could be a "pick me up drink " or a " real downer-down the shaft-drink" depending on how the person is affected by it.

And one of these breakthrough alternatives is Gano coffee. Since nutritionists cannot do anything about the world's addiction to coffee, most of them continuously search for alternatives to give people better options. Although now, we all know that too much coffee is bad for our health, most of us cannot help but indulge into this addicting act.

Gano coffee gives you an energy boost - not from caffeine, but from the ancient healthy ingredient called "Ganoderma Lucidum," that has been recognized for it's amazing properties. Made from Ganoderma extract, Gano coffee is produced by growing and processing organically without the use of chemicals, pesticides, hormones or artificial fertilizers.

Gano coffee also allows you to continue savoring the full-bodied flavor you are getting in a premium instant coffee while providing you more energy than your usual caffeinated drink. Being a coffee that that has a lower caffeine amount compared to commercially processed decaf coffees, Gano coffee is not a "substitute coffee" but an "alternative coffee" that gives you the richer flavor than fully-caffeinated coffee.

And with every cup of gano coffee you drink, you are making it as a healthy habit. Since Gano coffee contains less net caffeine than most of your other favorite caffeinated beverages, you can actually enjoy the benefits and delicious taste of a "healthy coffee" that is good for your wellbeing. Aside from helping you boost your energy level, Gano coffee also contributes to the improvement of your sleeping patterns while increasing the oxygen to your brain, and helps balance your weight. Among the so many benefits of drinking gano coffee include the detoxification and rejuvenation of your body while strengthening your immune system. Proven as a delicious and nutritious drink, Gano coffee gives you more vigor while reducing you stress and fatigue.

With every cup of gano coffee you drink, you are getting a "caffeine jumpstart" that will last for hours without the caffeine. Aside from making gano coffee as a good habit, here are some hints on how you can keep your coffee habit as healthy as possible especially if you are an avid coffee lover.

And though most research says that drinking 1-3 cups of coffee a day does not seem to have any negative effects in most healthy people, always make sure that you know the level of caffeine intake especially if you are undergoing any medications. If you still don't resort to drinking healthy coffee like gano coffee, always be aware of the caffeine content of your coffee since it varies widely depending on brewing and roasting methods. When it says it can no longer take an extra cup, learn not to let your urgency control over you. Although you are a person that has higher "caffeine urgency" than the others, you must still listen to what your body says.

Brewing the Perfect Cup of Coffee

It was Sanka for God's sake! What was wrong with a ten year old drinking coffee? I remember sitting in a restaurant with my mother and stepfather asking a waitress for Sanka, and explaining to my mother that I'd had it before and avoiding her disapproving stare. All I remember is that it was powdered and freeze dried and worst of all, decaf. I'm sorry to say that I do. Do you remember your first experience with coffee?

If I asked a girl out for a cup of coffee, it usually meant a Styrofoam cup at a Dunkin' Donuts or a Winchell's somewhere. Coffee; suffice it to say that there was no passion in my coffee. Mixing Tasters Choice in tepid tap water, graduating to Maxwell House and a Mr. My remaining experiences between ten and thirty five were noncommittal and mediocre to say the least.

Back then I was into science fiction and I remember vividly reading 'Ender's Game' by Orson Scott Card while sipping some of the most wonderful coffee from a paper cup. There, I was able to sit in one of their comfortable armchairs, sit back, cross my legs and enjoy a cup of joe while reading a good book. Complete comfort. The most important thing to me was the feeling I got when I walked in there. It was a combination bookstore and coffee shop called the Upstart Crow in San Diego, California. Now that I remember well. Then I stepped into my first Specialty Coffee Shop.

sigh... then I left San Diego for Atlanta and it was back to Maxwell House and Sanka. I spent many a day off sitting in that shop in Seaport Village... Rich and smooth, I fell into it's flavor; jumped actually. Oh that coffee!

I was sent to their training center for intensive classes teaching not only how to promote the product, but how to differentiate the taste between two coffees and most importantly, how to brew the perfect cup of coffee! I was hired and that's where my obsession with coffee renewed itself. Then, simply because I was unemployed and late with the rent I walked into a local Starbucks and asked for an application.

The Fundamentals of Coffee

All coffee, no matter whether you get it from your local coffee shop or the supermarket has four basic fundamentals:

Proportion

Grind

Water

Freshness

Let's look at each of these one by one...

Proportion

The ratio between coffee and water is an important one. Anyone who's ever had coffee that's too weak or too strong knows what I'm talking about. When it comes to brewing the perfect cup of coffee, the proportion should be two tablespoons of ground coffee to every six ounces of water. No more no less. A lot of people try to stretch their coffee for two weeks or more without realizing what a sacrifice to the taste this is. Use too little coffee and it tastes weak. Use too much and it becomes bitter and you risk a terrible nights sleep.

The best way to measure two tablespoons is with a measuring scoop. There are scoops that are specifically measured for two tablespoons but if you don't have one made especially for coffee measuring then you can use a standard 18 cup measuring cup. If you don't have that you can use regular run of the mill tablespoons, but that method isn't as precise. If you want to purchase a coffee scoop, you can get one at a specialty coffee shop or online. Starbucks is a good place to get one.

Grind

The type of grind you use for your coffee depends upon what kind of coffee maker you brew your coffee in. If you use an espresso machine you use a fine grind. For automatic drip coffee makers (such as Mr. Coffee), you use a medium grind and you use a coarse grind for coffee presses (my preferred way of brewing). There are other grinds as well, just as there are other ways to brew coffee such as percolators and Turkish coffees.

If were going to talk about the way a coffee is ground, then we also have to talk about grinders. Basically there are two types of grinders: blade and burr Blade grinders have two blades that rotate at a high speed to grind your beans. The pros of this method is that blade grinders are affordable. The cons are that they generally break down quicker.

Burr grinders grind the beans between two textured plates and the grind is much more consistent than a blade grinder. Also, it's easier to adjust the grind with a burr grinder. To get an espresso grind with a blade grinder, you have to hold the grind button for x amount of seconds. A burr grinder allows you to turn a dial and voila! Your grind is done. Obviously, I prefer a burr grinder.

Water

It's pretty much a good idea to use fresh, clean water to brew your coffee. If at all possible, try not to use tap water; you should always use filtered or bottled water. Before you begin screaming at me that you don't have that kind of money, don't worry. Yes, using nothing but bottled water is not exactly cost effective but there are inexpensive water filters available to purchase. Water filtration pitchers are also a good way to get fresh water for brewing.

Your water should be heated to just below boiling, around 190 degrees. You don't want your water to be too hot. It could overheat the grounds and spoil the taste of your coffee.

Freshness

This is pretty obvious. Once a bag is opened, the freshness lasts about a week. After grinding, it lasts about two days. The best way to keep your beans and ground coffee fresher longer is to keep it in an airtight container like the one shown here. And never, ever freeze your coffee no matter what you've heard or read. Coffee that is frozen is a high risk for freezer burn and take it from one who has experienced the horror: freezer burnt coffee is not a great taste!

I hope you enjoyed reading this article and Happy Brewing! Well those are the basics.

Are You Looking For a Glass Coffee Table?

Is a glass coffee table something that you want? Are you having trouble finding just the one you want? Have you looked in every furniture store possible and just cant seem to find the perfect table? Well, look no more, there is a solution to not finding your perfect coffee table with the glass top.

If you are having trouble finding the perfect glass coffee table, perhaps you should consider shopping only for the base, and having the glass cut to your specifications. Knowing what kind of base and what shape and size of the glass you want it is great, but when you can't find those two things together, you are really kind of faced with a dilemma.

Shopping for the base only for your glass coffee table is an excellent idea. No ones ever said you had to buy one complete coffee table all together, now did they? Finding the perfect base, and then having your glass top cut to your specifications will be an easy task to do.

When you go looking for the base for your glass coffee table, keep in mind the design and style you are wanting to project into the room for the table. Knowing these things will help you with your decision, and keep you from looking at things you are not interested in. When you walk into any furniture store, and tell them your particular style that you are looking for, chances are they should be able to help you, and show you around to the pieces that would match your taste.

Once you are shown the selection of bases for your glass coffee table, you would then want to measure the base, and decide exactly how big and what shape you prefer for the glass to be. You should take accurate measurements, and be sure of what you want before you order the glass for your new table.

Once you have taken measurements and have ordered the glass for your new glass coffee table, you will soon be able to put it together. Once the glass is ready you can pick it up and assemble your lovely new glass coffee table that was made to your specifications and enjoy it in your home.

Eugene's family has been in the carpentry industry for generations. During weekends when he has free time, he opens a small workshop in his garage for his local community where he specializes in folding dining room tables . Visit http://www.oftheearthfurniture.com to get Eugene's weekly tidbits on selecting and maintaining various styles and makes of solid wood tables.

folding dining room tables http://www.oftheearthfurniture.com

Kofi: Have Some Coffee!

Due to the overwhelming period of the UN and its megalords, a name has always been shining. Kofi Annan, with hours of flattering and minutes of pleasure, Kofi Annan was the name of the person who flattered and fluttered his way up to the seat of the UN Secretary in General.

But true face always shows, and therefore, Kofi Annan's true face was also shown to people, in a manner which was termed as the most disgusting ever, the no knowledge genius got on to flap his ever so strapped on wings which were never freed and had spent most of their time flattering and fluttering for people. Rising from a no knowledger to a no knowledge genius was not an easy task at all. And Kofi named person prooves this fact of mine. This action of a person such as Kofi required huge dumps and bumps of "saying things that are bearing no resemblance whatsoever to the things which are, supposedly being talked about and repeat".

True face is always true, If a barbarian is made to wear clothes of the gentlemen then you cannot see or presume the time that when the clothes will be on the floor and the barbarian on his previous form, taking that as an example, we come on to our main subject once again, the no knowledge genius, so when our barbarian was made to wear the clothes of the UN General Secretary, then as I previously mentioned, nobody could have imagined that when were the clothes going to wear off. Then the new name for gentleman will be horrible man, that's what Kofi Annan is known as nowadays, horrible man.

History refresh, so Kofi earned his way up to UN General Secretary spot etc. through Chattering, Pattering, Flattering and Blabbering. Chattering and Blabbering were alright as well as Pattering, But Flattering? Oh no no no, nobody can get knowledge from Flattering, a position can be got by Flattering but not the ability to operate it properly, that was a good point, so now, Kofi began showing his true face in the four aspects of his life, Chattering, Pattering, Blabbering and Flattering...... to be frank with Kofi, these are the four pillars on which his life is based on, the No knowledge Genius has had these stairs for the success, which is just a dummy although. Dummy what, success. Success was a dummy in case of Kofi annan ever since he came into existence because of the dummy's mother, who? Flattery.

Yes, So we arrive to a conclusion where it says that Kofi Annan hasn't had a genuine success whatsoever yet in his life. Anyways back to original talk, so Now we can give heed to the fact that the Kofi Annan was appointed as the UN Secretary in General. Therefore giving a rise to his high hopes and expectations in General, which means his true face began to give way to his needs and wants. The true face generated true thoughts, which said - "Kofi, now is your chance". The truth began overcoming the gentleman, in simpler words the Barbarian began coming over the of course Dummy Gentleman, which was meant for existence only till the UN Secretary seat was reached, after that the Kofi didn't thought that there was a need for the gentleman to stay. Because Kofi knew the fact that this is the last and the final chance where he can rule over the world and fulfill whatever things he had to do, fulfill all his requirements, his needs, his wants, all of them, Kofi thought that the time had come.

This was the point of time where Kofi's joy knew no bounds, he leaped up and down in the celebrations of the ever post he had longed for all his miserable life. And just feeling the fact that now his whole life's pleading, behaving in an attitude he had never wished for as well as all the flattery and "saying-untrue things in appreciation of people above him" ness had finally and finally paid off. Now Kofi got to action. What did he had to do? Well the UN General Secretary had to take care of the violence going around earth, settle issues, do welfare programs etc.

But Kofi? Oh well this was the one opportunity where he could get all he wanted! So, why do this miserable secretary stuff, anyone can do it, If I wont, then the upcoming Secretary will, so if it has to be done, Why should I do it? A pass of the problem for Kofi. Therefore the UN grew to be an organization which had nothing to do with the world, but with Kofi, in Kofi's reign, the UN began working for Kofi now, Kofi fulfilled his wishes and needs and wants by UN, the question comes up, is the UN meant for Kofi's own pleasure?

Now, Kofi got up on his feet and started looking around of ways for exploiting the UN, while busy in this activity, George Bush quickly did wars behind Kofi's back, but Kofi didn't seem to care and he still doesn't, that there had ever been a war on Iraq or Afghanistan. Whenever asked about this, Kofi disappeared around the corner with the comment "The UN is thinking about this". Think Think UN and Think Think Kofi, but you have said the truth Kofi, it is Think Think about the world and Do Do about Kofi

When the rehabilitation of some countries issue came up with Kofi, Kofi, being the ever nerd he is, tried to avoid it, But the previous secretaries were no less then Kofi and therefore it was the final call for the things to be done, so Kofi was struck and thought of a way to exploit this situation of the UN as well, the Iraq war was quickly did in the meantime, so Kofi was thinking, which was one of the actions which had been rarely practiced in Kofi's life. Now Kofi thought of a plan to rehabilitate his own son, who was destroyed, and destroy the countries, which were going to be rehabilitated. Now, Kofi kept his son too in his supervision in his own.... err...company...the UN as some secretary and gave him the place of doing that rehabilitation work, now the son was two steps ahead of father, and therefore left nothing left to eat in the issue, ( did I mention he had been hungry all his life as Kofi didn't earn but flattered in the time he was supposed to be earning ? ) so at the opportunity of eating, everything was ate up.

Now Kofi didn't think of this, and therefore Kofi was stuck again, fingers began pointing towards him and Kofi realized his duties, but this, being a temporary phase of life, vanished soon and the Incorporated Company of Kofi and His son, started eating up their way again to the UN's doom, due to Kofi realizing the fact that this WAS the LAST opportunity, again. As we know, Kofi has been a lover of the variety and therefore took a bite of each and every money, rather to say, every type of money he can see in his sight, some kinds of money were, the Earthquake Relief money, the Tsunami relief money, The African country help money and many different kinds of money, Kofi had never seen in his life, so Kofi ate a bite of each and every kind of money that came to him

Kofi never thought of some things, which were, being accused of corruption, the UN picture in a normal mind, the UN 's downfall, no, why should he think about it? For what are the other nations? They are for thinking about it and what is Kofi meant for? Eating and Digesting by the LAST CHANCE! And what was the UN for? Simple, UN was for Kofi!

So, Kofi now did everything he can and promoted his son and did so many other things he can do to enjoy the splendor of his life. Now let us look at the things which Kofi didn't care about and therefore which resulted in devastation and demolishing of so many things in the world that nobody can give a list of, But I will try doing it.

The Tsunami: Tsunami, Came and got away, but left a really huge matter for Kofi to earn money from. There are different beliefs among geologists as for why did the Tsunami occur, but I am sure about the fact that the Tsunami had come for Kofi and only for him. Now, Kofi had already thought of how to exploit this situation, from the next minute of Tsunami, the donations started coming, as if they were blessings for Kofi and Kofi open heartedly accepted them, as he knew that all this was for him, and only for Kofi. Kofi's bank account started becoming larger, and the hopes of Tsunami affected people began becoming smaller, Kofi, of course, left some part for Tsunami relief from the donations as he is a very generous person you know. Now Kofi took his mega share and gave some to the Tsunami affected people too, therefore maintaining the fact that the relief amount was given to the Tsunami people.

Earthquakes around the world: Many earthquakes occurred around the world in the reign of Kofi, they also had a profound effect on Kofi and his works, although they demolished and destructed towns, building etc. But strengthened Kofi, his bank accounts, and his position on the UN further more, who can alter anything of a person who is blessed by Nature? And that person is Kofi, such destruction, which occurred in so many places around the world, was for the welfare of Kofi, fact proven.

Other Natural Calamities: Other natural calamities by which the world was infested since the reign of Kofi Annan include many other things too, floods, tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes etc. which whipped apart the world, but Nature has always been with Kofi Annan and his works and therefore the fact comes into light that nobody can alter anything of the person who has been blessed by nature and such is the case with Kofi which is why he has never been turned down by the nature. That is the reason that every natural tragedy becomes an award for him. He is the only and only person who is a great follower of my concept called Grow With Nature, and how can one say that Kofi hasn't done any social work for society, when his upcoming farewell will itself be a great welfare work for society. That is why I am bound to say "Kofi, have some Coffee?"

Dr. Rajesh Dubey http://www.gandharv.com

Email: gandharv[at]gandharv.com

Dr. Rajesh Dubey http://www.gandharv.com

http://www.gandharv.com

Email: gandharv[at]gandharv.com

News of Antioxidants in Coffee not a License to Make It a Mainstay in Health Regimens

Coffee may be a chief source of antioxidants in the American diet, as recently reported at the meeting of the American Chemical Society by Dr. Joe Vinson of the University of Scranton, but "that is not a license to make it a mainstay of your health regimen," says Dr. Keith I. Block of the Block Center for Integrative Cancer Care & Optimal Health in Evanston, Illinois. Vinson recently found that, based on both the concentration of antioxidants in coffee and the relative amounts we consume of coffee and the more conventionally acknowledged antioxidant sources - fruits and vegetables - coffee contributes more to our antioxidant intake than any other food.

"Vinson's results are perhaps more a reflection on the inadequacy of our fruit and vegetable intake than on the health benefits of coffee, which has some significant health concerns for many people," noted Block. Caffeinated coffee joins several other popular caffeine sources in the diet in contributing to excess intake of this natural drug. Recent studies highlight the role that caffeine overdose plays in insomnia, anxiety disorders, elevation of stress hormones, urination and bladder problems in older women, and non-cancerous breast lumps. It produces a small but disturbingly significant elevation of blood pressure. Even decaffeinated coffee contributes to health problems. When it's combined with high-fat milk, cream, sugar or flavorings, a single 16-oz cup can have over 250 calories - a questionable addition to the diet of anyone trying to keep their weight under control (not to mention their budget)! "Decaf and caffeinated coffee alike contribute to a range of gastric problems that are becoming ever more important in contemporary society, including both ulcers and the widespread gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD or chronic heartburn), which can be a precursor to esophageal cancer," explained Block, who is co-founder and Medical/Scientific Director of the Block Center. "While a little coffee can be fine for most people, increasing beyond a cup or two a day can lead to clinical problems. The supersized caffeinated blends can actually be toxic! In fact some studies have found that increases in blood levels can be responsible for adverse effects among persons consuming only moderately increased doses over average consumption. Though usually toxic dosing requires quite high dosing, upwards of 150 ounces daily, toxicity can result for some people if they were to consume 35 to 70 ounces in a short period. This is only 7 to 14 cups at only 5 ounces per cup. Or, at the supersize 16+ ounce level, only a few!"

While many people may be able to tolerate coffee in the small cup or two per day that Dr. Vinson points out as being reasonable, anyone with health problems that are potentially coffee- or caffeine-related needs to examine their daily coffee intake closely.

"Yes, coffee is chock full of antioxidants," says Dr. Block, "but don't run to your neighborhood coffee-house in place of consuming fruits and vegetables. These colorful plants contain an array of plant chemicals that help reduce your risks of killer diseases like cancer and heart disease."

The Block Center for Integrative Cancer Care and Optimal Health, located in Evanston, Illinois, was founded in 1980 by Penny and Keith Block, M.D. with a focus on treating the patient as a whole person, not treating just the diagnosis or symptoms. The Center's research-based treatment integrates an innovative approach to the best of conventional medicine with scientifically sound complementary therapies -- therapeutic nutrition, botanical and phytonutrient supplementation, prescriptive exercise, and systematic mind-body strategies -- to enhance the recovery process. Block has pioneered this "middle ground" approach to cancer care and optimal health - designing a total treatment plan that is tailored to the precise needs of each patient, using a unique set of clinical and laboratory assessments. The Block Center is breaking new ground with the creation and development of Cancer Rehab as an innovative treatment modality, and currently is the only private North American medical center using chrono-modulated chemotherapy. While the Block Center is a full treatment clinic, it is involved in collaborative research with M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas as a Community Clinical Oncology Program (CCOP) and is also engaged in clinical cancer research with other university facilities in the United States and Israel ( www.blockmd.com )

www.blockmd.com

Grinding Gourmet Coffee Beans

The fast rule of thumb is the faster the infusion the finer the grind. The objective is to get the most flavor out of your ground gourmet coffee beans when infused with hot water. The type of coffee grind that you use is important in order to properly match the type of brewing method you will be using.

The espresso brewing method need the least amount of time and requires the grind to be very fine. The various grind categories are "fine," "medium" and "coarse." The finer grinds don't need to be in contact with water for as long as the coarser grinds.

If you would like to make a stronger or weaker brew it is easier to just add or reduce the amount of ground coffee than to vary the grind. If you tried using an espresso grind in your drip filter machine, the water will take much longer to filter through and the flavor will not improve.

After deterioration expect to taste stale and coffee with a reduction of flavor. Oxygen and moister in the air quickly deteriorates ground coffee as it oxidizes and looses its flavor. The effective life of ground coffee is only a few days after grinding. It cannot be emphasized more that grinding coffee immediately before brewing makes a huge different in the freshness of your coffee.

There are a larger variety of bean grinders available on the market that can either look as a nice appliance in your kitchen or can be quickly put away. Grinding beans at home is very easy to do.

The oldest bean grinders are the mortar and pestle. This takes a while to use and the grind is not consistent. But since we are in living in the electronic age there are simpler and faster methods.

Electric motor grinders can either have blades or two crushing burr plates. The blade grinders are the least expensive and can be found at places such as Wal-Mart for under $15. The burr grinders are little more expensive. An attractive burr grinder can be found at finer food or kitchen appliance stores for $50 and above. Check out place such as Williams-Sonoma, Bed Bath and Beyond or Linens and Things.

Burr vs. Blades

Burr vs. Blades

The extra expense of a burr grinder will translate into a better grind. A blade does not really grind but slashes the beans into smaller and smaller particles. The blade particles are inconsistent; around the edges are fine powder and larger chunks in the center.

Blade Grinder

Blade Grinder

The blade grinder is the best option as someone's first grinder. It is the least expensive and can be quickly put away after use. The two major draw backs are that they are messy as the grounds spill from the container when you open it and the inconsistent grind mentioned above. Still, having a blade grinder will cause a major difference in the flavor your experience from your gourmet coffee beans if you are currently buying ground coffee.

How to Use a Blade Grinder

How to Use a Blade Grinder

When you use a blade grinder do not hold your finger on the button the entire time but push it in intervals. Grind in quick bursts of 2-5 seconds so that it prevents the beans from heating up too much. Also hold it with two hands with one over the top container and shake it up and down as you grind to mix up the contents and to give it a better consistency.

For a course grind spin your blade grinder for 7-10 seconds, a medium grind will take 10-14 seconds and a finer grind will take 15-20 seconds. If you drink espresso you will need one of the more expensive burr grinders, a blade version will not produce the consistently fine grind that is required for espresso.

One of the latest developments is a drip coffee machine with a built-in blade grinder. It has a timer you can set so in the morning the beans are automatically ground then pushed into the coffee filter and the brewing will start automatically. All you have to do is add the beans and water in the morning. This is perfect for people on the go. One of the most popular models is the Cuisinart Stainless Steel Grind & Brew, which retails for around $120. The only drawback is that a burr grinder is not available but we have hope for the future.

Burr Grinders

Burr Grinders

If you are looking for the best method for grinding your gourmet coffee beans go straight for a Burr grinder. The grind is consistent and most of the machines have various grind settings. Many include a bean hopper on top where you can store your beans with an airtight lid. Some have a setting to set how many cups you want to grind and include a receptacle where your coffee grounds are deposited. After grinding you simply pour your coffee grounds from the receptacle into your coffee maker. This type of burr grinder not only produces a great and consistent grind, it also keeps your ground coffee well contained with little spillage.

For the professional users you will find bean grinders that will grind directly into your coffee filter which is ideal for restaurants. Check out versions from Gaggia and Bunn for these types of burr grinders.

The Bottom Line

The Bottom Line

Stop settling for lower quality pre-ground store bought coffee. If you have not already done so, make the jump and get a quality grinder and buy whole bean coffee to grind just before you brew. If you are on a budget or are not ready for a larger commitment, get an inexpensive blade grinder. If you are a lover of coffee and want the best for your beans, buy a quality burr grinder. A good burr grinder will eliminate some of the hassles and spillage of a blade grinder and will produce a more consistent grind.

All Rights Reserved. Copyright © 2005 Volcanica Coffee Company.

The Best Cup of Drip Coffee Possible

With a "good" cup of coffee costing almost as much as a good sandwich these days, more and more people are taking to making their coffee at home from an "old fashioned" drip coffee machine. With the influence of Starbucks and the others out there, people are demanding a better cup of coffee all of the time. This article should help you make the best cup of drip coffee possible.

Coffee from a can just doesn't work for the general public anymore. You know what I'm talking about and it sounds as lousy to you as it does to me. The good news is that great coffee beans can be obtained at pretty much any grocery store. If you use coupons (and if you don't, shame on you), you should do quite well if you aren't too worried about the brand name. My tip for you - worry about quality more than anything else. The big stores like Sams Club and Costco offer big bags of coffee beans at some very good prices. Your author's favorite, in case you're interested, is Kirkland brand (two pound) of Espresso Roast (Starbucks) that you can find at Costco.

Be willing to experiment with different bean types to find the kind of coffee you like best. For what it is worth, more times than not, I've found that a good espresso roast makes a great cup of drip coffee as well. Do experiment though, you just might be surprised at what you find.

Good beans deserve a good grind. You'd be surprised at the difference between a good grind and a bad one. If you don't have a good grinder at home, consider grinding the beans at the store where they were purchased as the grinders there often do a great job. Burr grinders are the best, and the most expensive.

It is probably obvious but good water makes a difference as well. The more things you take out of the water, the better your coffee will taste.

A good drip machine is also a must. More than anything else, the warming element is what you need to worry about. If you find that your coffee often has that scalded burned taste, the warmer might be too hot. And, of course, there is seldom a way to change that so, … you'll need a new machine.

Consider the French Press alternative. French presses are dirt cheap, make an incredible cup of coffee, and never leave you worrying about overactive warmers, water tube build-up and the like. Remember that the grind for French Press is different than normal drip coffee so grind accordingly.

What about people stuck in a bad coffee situation in the office or somewhere else? Here's a trick that can help with some issues: Bring in a cinnamon shaker and dash a little on the grinds before starting the machine. This will give the coffee a bit more taste, hide some of the bad taste and help with the aroma. Grab the coffee as soon as is brewed and, most of all, lobby for better coffee.

You're worth it.

About The Author

Chiacchia Del is the webmaster of Yo! Coffee, the Internet's hot spot for all things coffee. You can read more of her work at http://www.yocoffee.com .

http://www.yocoffee.com

The Newest Wedding Sensation - Coffee Wedding Favors

From generic simple favors to personalized unique favors, options are endless. With so much to think about, a small, but important part of the wedding is the wedding favors. This day must go as planned. From the dresses and tuxedos to the very plates they will dine off of, there will be nothing left to chance. With so much to think about, a small, but important part of the wedding to consider. This day must go as planned. From the dresses and tuxedos to the very plates they will dine off of, there will be nothing left to chance. For couples planning their big day, there are many aspects of the wedding to consider. One of those times and probably the most significant is their wedding day. There are very few times in a person's life that the world will completely revolve around them.

Perhaps an autumn wedding, wedding favors can coincide with your theme easily and add an extra uniqueness to your special day. Are you having a beach wedding? What is your theme? In the past, most weddings contained the same basic setups and party favors designed by the many artists who have brought us themes that fit any lifestyle imaginable. When choosing favors for your wedding, you can reference books, stores, and now online websites for ideas.

Java, after all, is the morning medicine that keeps many of us on time to our morning meetings and gives us a boost of energy! Whichever your taste, coffee wedding favors have become a favorite within the last five years or so. Choose a coffee wedding favor designed to match your theme and personalize them with the bride and groom's name and wedding date. For specialty themes like coffee wedding favors, you may have to seek out an Internet wedding favor retailer for all items pertaining to coffee lovers. These are the most unique wedding favors available. The latest wedding favor sensation is coffee wedding favors. Some of your choices may be: mints, candles, frames, chocolate bar wedding favors and much more. For every theme, there is a perfect wedding favor.

When you have just one chance to get it right, always do your best by choosing wedding favors that fit your wedding theme and personality. There are so many items to choose, from heart shaped coffee scoops to personalized coffees there is something for everyone. Wedding gifts for the bride's maids and groom's men have been a long time tradition not to mention leaving the guests with items to use as souvenirs.

Coffee Making Without Technology

In this day and age, coffee making has become something of an art. Specialty coffee shops have sprung up all over, and it would be hard to drive down a city street without seeing at least one or two. These days, coffee is more than just brewing a strong cup on the stove. There are fancy coffee makers, espresso machines, and cappuccino machines, and a host of coffee flavors and different coffee additives, such as flavored creamers or syrups.

There are times, however, when making a fancy cup of coffee is out of the question. Perhaps you are out roughing it in the wilderness, you forgot your stove-top percolator, and you still want at least a good black cup of coffee but aren't sure what to do. Believe it or not, there is a trick to coffee making that doesn't include electricity or even a stove-top percolator.

Of course, even if you are lacking a coffee maker or a coffee pot, you are still going to need your basic ground coffee, and you are going to need a heat source. Hopefully, if you are on a remote camping trip, you still remembered the coffee, even if you didn't remember the stove-top percolator; and of course, most campers have campfires or camping stoves fueled by some type of gas. It can actually be a rewarding experience to use some old-fashioned ingenuity when it comes to the simple act of making coffee without a coffee pot; it helps us remember that we are not always slaves to modern technology.

The method you can use to make yourself a cup of coffee is to use a couple of paper towels, a regular pot or pan, and a cup - either a coffee cup or any cup that can hold hot liquid. Place a couple of paper towels over the cup, and then place some coffee grounds on paper towels. Heat the water over your campfire or on your camp stove until it is boiling, and then carefully, and slowly, pour the heated water over the coffee grounds and paper towels so that it filters into the cup. The more slowly you pour the water in, the stronger your cup of coffee should be. If you don't think the coffee is strong enough the first time, carefully remove the paper towels with the coffee grounds on top, pour the liquid from the cup back into the pan, put the napkins or paper towels and coffee grounds back on top of the cup, and repeat the procedure. It shouldn't take more than two times to make a strong enough cup of coffee. This may seem like a long and tedious procedure, but you'll get your cup of coffee, and you'll probably feel rather proud of yourself!

John Gibb is the owner of coffee making sources , For more information on how to make coffee check out http://www.cofeemaking-sources.info

coffee making sources http://www.cofeemaking-sources.info

Coffee Shop Business Plan

A coffee shop business plan would help you to do things right from the very beginning.

Whatever your purpose, however you may want to become involved with the coffee business, you'll most likely want to have a coffee shop business plan in place before taking the first step. You might even want to add a coffee angle to your existing business. Or maybe you want to buy an already existing coffee business, and want to make sure that you run it right. Or perhaps you already own a coffee shop, and are wondering what you can do to boost sales.

All reasons to have a Coffee Shop Business Plan in place. In short, you don't know too many things about the coffee business; where do you start? Do you go it independent, or do you get a franchise from some big player? What kind of location should you look for? What equipment should you buy? There are hundreds of varieties of coffee and coffee-based drinks; what drinks should you make? Will you have adequate resources to see it through till you succeed? Will it be really worth it? There are certain vital questions to be considered.

for a full-fledged coffee shop, however, it could be anything between $60,000 and $350,000, depending on your scale of operation. For a drive-thru, you should need something between $40,000 and $150,000. This should include what you intend to do, how you intend to implement it, what kind of startup finances you need, what level of sales you're looking at, and how you plan to pay the (private or institutional) investors back. First, you need to write an informed, coherent coffee shop business plan.

© Copyright Randy Wilson, All Rights Reserved.

Choose the Correct Coffee Machines

But I am not alone. As time goes by I am sure to gather more Coffee Making equipment as I am a self confessed coffee addict. One Coffee Machine that is out permanently and two Coffee Machines that like it in the cupboard! Personally I have three. Most kitchens will have some sort of Coffee Machines in them.

Then there are the new fangled pod coffee machines, which infuse hot water through coffee pods, and the top-notch espresso makers. You can still get the old-fashioned drip machines, but the even more old-fashioned presses and hand brew machines are back in style. Not only do you have to choose among the dozens of franchise coffee shops, coffee types, espresso, cappuccino, and all other kinds of java, you also have to worry about what kind of coffee machines to work with. Nowadays, coffee is all the rage.

Honest! You may have to clean the filters after each use, but this little bit of extra work is well worth it. Permanent filters make sure that the flavor molecules from the coffee grinds pass through into the water, but more importantly, the permanent filters do this without adding unwanted flavors. The key to these machines is using a gold, nylon, or other type of permanent filters. They use a method of brewing that can create the most delicious coffee. Drip coffee machines, though, are still one of the easiest types to use for beginners and coffee aficionados alike.

If you absolutely have to use paper filters try rinsing them with hot water first as this helps to wash away some of the after taste. They impart an aftertaste into the finished product, and they absorb some of the special flavor molecules and aromatic oils from your coffee beans, which are what gives your cup of joe its tantalizing taste. What is wrong with paper filters for coffee machines?

This means water temperatures that are between 195 degrees and 205 degrees to ensure the best flavor extraction from the coffee grounds. Be sure to only add the right temperature water to the mix. When using drip coffee machines, stick with medium to fine grinds of coffee.

And if you want to follow the most expert rules for using drip coffee machines, you should remove the grounds from the filter before the last couple of drops of water have filtered through. This prevents your coffee from being over-extracted and overly bitter. One last thing. Before you serve this delicious coffee to yourself or to a guest, stir it.

From one coffee addict to the like minded, enjoy! So go choose a coffee machine that will suit you and enjoy your morning pick-you-up or sip your mellow afternoon cup-a-joe!