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.

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

Coffee - Grinding Coffee Beans

For example Espresso brews in just 30 seconds or less so requires a very course grind as in this method of brewing the coffee grounds are steeped in water (like tea leaves) for a full 6 to 10 minutes. It is generally believed that the shorter the brewing time the finer the grind must be. It is important to use the right grind of coffee for you preferred brewing method.

These are not really ideal as they produce an uneven grind and if whirred too long they heat the beans releasing aromatic substances that should go into your cup and not into the air. Most people have propeller-blade grinders.

Cleaning a Burr Mill can be a complicated process and it is much easier to have the grinder cleaned professionally at an appliance repair shop. The grinding times can be found in the manufacturers instructions along with instructions for cleaning the machine. Cleaning a Burr Mill is the fact that they are noisy and slow but you can grind as much or little as you require and get a reliably consistent result. The grinding times can be found in the manufacturers instructions along with instructions for cleaning the machine. The down side to a Burr Mill is the fact that they are noisy and slow but you can grind as much or little as you require and get a reliably consistent result. What is required is cool, precise tearing apart of the beans and this is best achieved in a Burr Mill, which has two notched blades whose position can be set for the desired fineness of grinds.

The secret with these is to assume that the grind will be one or two settings courser than is promised by the little pictures on the dial and always run a few fresh beans through before beginning to get rid of stale flavors. Owning a Burr Mill is not essential and you can use one of the professional grinders commonly found in supermarkets or convenience stores.

Whilst the machine is grinding, gently lift it off the counter and shake it. Propeller blade grinders are rarely large enough to grind more than 4 scoops at a time effectively so bear that in mind when grinding. Never whirr the beans for more than 30 seconds, as this will overheat them badly. If using a propeller blade grinder, grind the beans slightly courser than you think you'll need and then grind in 10-second bursts.

After each use, unplug the grinder and wipe out the grinding chamber with a damp paper towel or sponge. The plastic top should be washed in hot water.

Here are some approximate times for grinding with the propeller blade grinder: 10 seconds for the plunger pot, 13 seconds for the flat bottomed paper filters (which generally fit into American drip brewers) or wedge shaped gold filters and 16 seconds for wedge shaped paper filters. For a plunger pot the grounds should resemble coarse ground cornmeal and for a drip brew the grounds should resemble granulated sugar.

So if you do not have a grinder you can still enjoy the aromatic flavors of freshly ground coffee. Today, many stores that sell coffee beans also offer a means of grinding them.

Does Coffee Really Taste All That Good?

Before anyone gets up in arms lambasting this as a blasphemous suggestion, be assured that the question comes not from an observer, but a partaker. Or has it just become a habit?

Specific qualifications include: decades of indulging in somewhere between a cup to a quart daily on average; sampling of countless brands; mixing it up with varieties from espresso to cappuccino; often grinding my own beans; and though an early user of cream and sugar, taking it straight longer can be remembered.

But a while back, after preparing the morning brew, I actually paid attention to the first sip. It's an accepted routine that mostly happens on autopilot. Normally coffee gets consumed without much thought.

Nor did things improve after drinking more. Rather, it actually caught me up short just because it was so blah - in fact the taste was really somewhat unappealing. I suppose there was some anticipation of that delicious initial taste, but it didn't happen that way.

There was simply no apparent reason for it not to taste good. Likewise, neither was the water, measuring, or anything else in the production process to blame. The problem was not the coffee - it was a premium brand with a name familiar to all.

Initially I wrote it off as some unknown anomaly, but it happened the same for a couple more days. Experiments with switching out the coffee itself, water and other variables didn't really seem to change much.

Over time, I didn't notice so much, but then again it's unusual to notice a lot anyway until later in the morning when the brain kicks into gear. But from time to time I try and savor that first sip especially, to see what I really think about it.

The results are still mixed. Sometimes it appears to be pretty good, yet others it just seems like coffee - nothing special, just comfortable. Will I continue to drink it - absolutely. Why, is hard to say, but probably that's where the habit kicks in.

Try an experiment yourself. Savor that next cup and really focus on the taste. Is it actually as good in your mouth as in your mind?

Or is it sort of like golf, where hitting a perfect shot from time to time keeps us coming back despite all the crummy ones in between?

How To Master Your French Press - Plunger Pot Coffee Maker

This will separate your finished coffee away from the grounds by pressing all the grounds to the bottom of the pot. Then you gently press the plunger lid down allowing it to pass through the suspended coffee. You should then allow the coffee to steep for about four to six minutes. The plunger cover is then replaced on the beaker. The French press method is pre-warming the glass beaker with hot water, adding your preferred amount of coffee in the beaker, then adding some slightly cooled boiling water. The French press method is pre-warming the glass beaker with hot water, adding your preferred amount of coffee in the beaker, then adding some slightly cooled boiling water, will create a great blend of aroma and flavor.

Advantages | Disadvantages of your French press

Also there is no paper filter to take away some of the coffee oils - which will help save your delicate aroma. Grounds in this process (steeping) are just under the boiling point, which means no extra boiling or burning which will save the dark, delightful flavor and coffee aroma - with no bitterness. The stop time is less, application of pressure is slight, water is hotter, and the ratio of water to coffee is greater. Advantages: Using this technique gives the richest body of coffee (excluding Espresso).

And if you do not use the medium to coarse grind, you may have sediment at the bottom of our cup. If your coffee beans are ground too fine, it will be harder to press down the plunger lid because of the increased surface tension. Disadvantages: The cooling down of the coffee before the steeping pressure has finished.

Bonus | Using the French press as a foamer to make froth.

Pump the plunger in the pot for a few minutes and the milk will expand to three to four times its volume creating froth for your cappuccino and latte. Pour the milk into a rinsed plunger pot. Do not overheat; just heat it enough that you cannot put your finger into it. Heat a cup of milk (using non-fat has best results) on the stove or in the microwave.

Coffee Grinder: One Good Cup Coming Up!

When you want to have a cup of delicious coffee, it is best to let the coffee beans pass through a grinder first before brewing them in order to preserve the aroma.

Normally, ground coffee eventually loses its flavor when exposed to air for a long period, thus, the longer the ground coffee is exposed in the air, the lesser the coffee flavor.

Do keep in mind that grounded coffee must be placed immediately in an airtight dry container to preserve its aroma and flavor. That is why it is best that you grind coffee beans in minimal amounts or in quantities that are enough for your daily use.

In coffee making, these innovative coffee processors can be very useful when grinding whole coffee beans so as to facilitate an easier way of brewing them.

These are the electric blade, the conical burr, and the burr grinder. There are, basically, three types of grinders to be used on whole coffee beans.

The conical burr grinder works best in maintaining the aroma and flavor of the coffee. It makes a refined coffee texture. With its complex pattern of steel burrs, you can easily manipulate the speed of the grinding process, from high to a slower pace.

When using this type of coffee crusher, keep in mind that it is best to grind coffee in a slower speed so as to lessen the heat in the machine. This is because higher levels of heat applied to the coffee will eliminate its aroma and flavor.

Conical burr grinder is best for different kinds of coffee makers, percolators, espresso, or drip. Its maximum grinding speed is usually less than 500 rpm.

Burr grinder, on the other hand, is usually faster in grinding coffee beans as compared to conical burrs. Its actual grinding speed usually ranges from 10,000 to 20,000 rpm.

Because of its great speed, burrs are considered to be the most inexpensive way of achieving well-refined coffee grains. That's why these are the types that are usually suitable for home use. Though, when compared to conical burr, burrs do not grind as fine.

Blade grinders are the fastest coffee processors available in the market today. Its maximum speed range from 20,000 to 30,000 rpm. Contrary to the first two types, blades produce coffee grains with a mixture of large and small granules.

Due to the coffee dust that accumulates in the blade grinder, the sieves in French presses and espresso machines are clogged. That is why blades works best in drip coffee makers and are not suitable for pump espresso machines.

Because of its fast speed, blade grinders can also be used in crushing different herbs and spices.

However, different types of coffee processors can also affect the results of your coffee grains. That's why it is best to consider some factors when choosing the best machine to do the job. You have to consider the static, safety, noise, and the simplicity of cleaning the machine.

So, for coffee lovers out there, you do not have to purchase expensive ground coffee anymore. All you have to do is to look for the best coffee grinder available in the market that is suited to do the job you want in your coffee.

Just bear in mind to consider the different factors that may affect the coffee texture so as to preserve its flavor and aroma.

why a special kind of coffee cup is used for every occassion

Probably the most famous and popular drink in the entire world, coffee is presently prepared in hundreds of ways all over the globe. Should you go in restaurant and check the menu for a coffee, you'll definitely be at a loss about what to choose, particularly if you don't have something specific in mind. For serving each type of coffee, a special kind of coffee cup is used. To give a simple but illustrative example here let's consider espresso for instance; this is usually served in a small coffee cup, due to the fact that it is probably the strongest kind you could have. A larger coffee cup allows room enough for adding something else in it to enhance the flavor: milk, rum, whiskey, cream and so on.

Whether you use a coffee cup with a brand name on it, or simple porcelain mugs, coffee drinking makes part of a process some even label as ritual; hence, there are some rules to be followed when you serve coffee to your guests. First of all, a coffee cup should look appealing and inviting; adding a decorative item such as a green mint leaf on the saucer will have a very pleasant aesthetic effect. Don't forget to also offer a glass of water next to the coffee cup, some people actually prefer it after a strong flavor. Furthermore, experts say that no sugar should be added in the coffee during the preparation.

Everybody is free to add as many lumps in the coffee cup as it suits his or her taste, consequently, serving it too sweet or too bitter is definitely a mistake, make it black, that's the best way to please all tastes. The same observation stays valid for the cream and milk one may add beforehand, which is not advisable either unless we're talking about some special type of coffee; however, what you could do to make the coffee cup seem even more inviting is to serve some cookies with it. Make sure that they are not too sweet, as the most intense taste should be that of coffee, not to mention that sugary snacks make coffee taste bitter.

If you want to surprise a friend or a dear one whom you know to be a great coffee lover, you may easily choose to offer him / her a personalized coffee cup. The best way to get it is by turning to a specialized company in the field which actually inscribes the text of your choice on high quality porcelain. Moreover, presenting a personalized coffee cup within a whole set, will make the gift even more unique and funny; every time your friend will drink coffee he / she will have you in mind.

what is cappuccino

The main difference between the two is that a caffe latte has twice the amount of milk (usually whole milk, but one can order it with 2 percent or even skim) and no milk foam. Many people confuse this coffee drink with a caffe latte, another form of Italian coffee found at most coffee houses in America. What is cappuccino? Paper and glass cups tend to allow the heat to seep out faster. Additionally, the porcelain acts as another heat retainer. Served traditionally in a porcelain cup, the foam acts as an insulator and keeps the drink hotter longer. The milk foam that floats on top of a cappuccino is what distinguishes it from most other coffee drinks, in fact. If the texture and temperature of the milk is wrong, the drink won't be as good as it should be. The barista then steams the milk, which is the second most important ingredient. A cappuccino starts out with a shot of espresso. When the milk is properly steamed, it will be velvety and sweet. The barista will then float one centimeter of the foamed milk on top of the espresso. If one prefers their cappuccino to have more or less milk, the order would be for a wet or dry cappuccino, respectively. Until the mid 1990s, Americans didn't really enjoy cappuccino. Whether it was because people didn't know what the drink was or because it wasn't quite cool enough to drink isn't known. However, when upscale coffee houses started sprouting up en masse, more and more people began ordering the beverage. Hopefully, now that you've learned the question to "what is cappuccino", you'll be able to impress your friends with the new found knowledge. Typically speaking, Italians exclusively drink them in the morning, although in other countries it is customary to drink them after dinner. Traditionally, cappuccinos in Italy are served with breakfast.

The main difference between the two is that a caffe latte has twice the amount of milk (usually whole milk, but one can order it with 2 percent or even skim) and no milk foam. Many people confuse this coffee drink with a caffe latte, another form of Italian coffee found at most coffee houses in America. What is cappuccino?Paper and glass cups tend to allow the heat to seep out faster. Additionally, the porcelain acts as another heat retainer. Served traditionally in a porcelain cup, the foam acts as an insulator and keeps the drink hotter longer. The milk foam that floats on top of a cappuccino is what distinguishes it from most other coffee drinks, in fact.If the texture and temperature of the milk is wrong, the drink won't be as good as it should be. The barista then steams the milk, which is the second most important ingredient. A cappuccino starts out with a shot of espresso.Hopefully, now that you've learned the question to "what is cappuccino", you'll be able to impress your friends with the new found knowledge. Typically speaking, Italians exclusively drink them in the morning, although in other countries it is customary to drink them after dinner. Traditionally, cappuccinos in Italy are served with breakfast.

coffee machines utilizing todays technology for your favorite morning drink

Coffee machines have not only grown in popularity, but have become much more sophisticated that the early models of old. Today, you can program a coffee machine for early morning breakfast; utilize gourmet coffee machines to make a tasty cup of espresso or cappuccino; or use a simpler coffee machine wherein you can have a cup of java at any time of the day. Although percolators have almost been replaced by drip coffee machines, there are still individuals who utilize the former rather than the latter. and Scandinavia boast the highest amount of coffee usage. In fact, the U.S. It is currently estimated that there are over 100 million cups of coffee drunk every day. There may be a variety of reasons why some households still choose percolators over coffee machines. It may be that some drip coffee machines to not maintain heat as well; or perhaps automatic coffee machines turn off at a certain point; or there is a problem with the decanter; or it may be that having a percolated cup of coffee tastes somewhat better than that which comes from a coffee machine. Whatever the reason, today you can find coffee machines for a variety of households; from one cup to ten cups or more. In today’s economy, however, prices of food, milk, and especially coffee have risen. When you add to this the fact that many years ago drinking several cups of coffee was not considered a healthy part of one’s diet regimen; today the tide has turned once again and coffee is considered a good thing. Coffee machines brought the emergence of flavored coffees from around the world. Though quite high in cost, nonetheless, individuals flocked to these coffee houses to have a cup of this rich brew. At the same time, percolators and drip coffee machines would continue to be used in households. However, many of the well-known coffee houses who charged an exorbitant amount of money for a cup of coffee have now turned towards decreasing the cost due to an economic recession. Although individuals still choose to forgo making a cup of java at home and prefer, instead, to buy a cup of coffee on their way to work. Others, on the other hand, choose not to buy a can or bag of coffee but rather buy a cup at their local convenience store or coffee house. It seemed inevitable, then, that because there are millions of people who drink coffee that technology needed to take a giant leap forward in order to accommodate coffee drinkers at large and offer a coffee machine that could be programmed to do everything except serve. For those who still own percolators and who refuse to spend a handsome sum of money to purchase coffee machines, take heart. Percolators are still available, although you may need to research the internet to find them.

Coffee machines have not only grown in popularity, but have become much more sophisticated that the early models of old.Today, you can program a coffee machine for early morning breakfast; utilize gourmet coffee machines to make a tasty cup of espresso or cappuccino; or use a simpler coffee machine wherein you can have a cup of java at any time of the day.Although percolators have almost been replaced by drip coffee machines, there are still individuals who utilize the former rather than the latter. and Scandinavia boast the highest amount of coffee usage. In fact, the U.S. It is currently estimated that there are over 100 million cups of coffee drunk every day.

top reasons why im a coffeehouse lover

To me, there is nothing more relaxing and conducive to creative juices flowing than sitting in a comfortable, overstuffed chair with a hot cup of coffee or tea by my side. First and foremost, I'm a writer. There are many reasons I'm a coffeehouse lover. I don't have time to deal with foaming and frothing milk, nor do I want the hassle of steam burns and a mess in the kitchen. Also, I get something at coffeehouses that I can't get at home: a decent espresso drink. The service at coffeehouses is amazing, and the people there are always smiling and cheery (even at the God awful hour of 6 am). If that's not worth $3, I don't know what is! When I go to a coffeehouse, everything is prepared perfectly and I don't have to clean anything up. Plus, the variety found at my local coffeehouse is unlike anything in any home I've ever seen. While I like cappuccinos and lattes as much as the next girl, sometimes I like to switch things up a bit. When I feel like a cup of ginger green tea, I can have it. If I change my mind and decide that I want a sweet and blended frozen beverage, I can have that too, all without having to go to a store. Also, the company found at my local coffeehouse is second to none. There are artsy people, professional men and women in suits, college students and more. It's a slice of life and something I appreciate sitting in the midst of. I don't have to pay $60 a month for wireless, I can just head down the street to a coffeehouse, something I'd be doing anyway. Probably the best out of all of the reasons I'm a coffeehouse lover is the fact that I can get free wireless internet.

To me, there is nothing more relaxing and conducive to creative juices flowing than sitting in a comfortable, overstuffed chair with a hot cup of coffee or tea by my side. First and foremost, I'm a writer. There are many reasons I'm a coffeehouse lover.I don't have time to deal with foaming and frothing milk, nor do I want the hassle of steam burns and a mess in the kitchen. Also, I get something at coffeehouses that I can't get at home: a decent espresso drink. The service at coffeehouses is amazing, and the people there are always smiling and cheery (even at the God awful hour of 6 am).If that's not worth $3, I don't know what is! When I go to a coffeehouse, everything is prepared perfectly and I don't have to clean anything up.I don't have to pay $60 a month for wireless, I can just head down the street to a coffeehouse, something I'd be doing anyway. Probably the best out of all of the reasons I'm a coffeehouse lover is the fact that I can get free wireless internet.

coffee grinders are the choice of people who are truly in love with coffee

Preparing fresh coffee can mean lots of things for different people: you can either buy it ground or prepare it at home just as fine or as coarse as it pleases you. Coffee grinders are very often the choice of people who are truly in love with coffee and want to make sure that flavor and the aroma are unique, authentic and the most intense one they can get. The problem with pre-ground coffee is that it loses the flavor within days after the manufacturing process, not that it would become tasteless, but you don't discover the same intensity of the original in it.

On the other hand, those who choose to buy whole coffee beans and prepare them with the help of coffee grinders at home know that the freshness and the strength of the taste will remain present for weeks on end. However, there is one other advantage of using coffee grinders beside that of flavor preservation: I'm talking about the possibility to control the strength of the coffee depending on the way you choose to grind it. For instance, largely ground coffee works excellent for after dinner occasions when you don't need to make the coffee drinks too strong; on the other hand, in the morning, one may definitely need a super fine grind to prepare an espresso and get the maximum of caffeine out of it.

There are many types of coffee grinders on the market, how can one know which to choose? Some of these special machines are created to grind large amounts of coffee that are used in cafés for instance; but this is not the case for a regular person who needs a lower capacity to use at home. When buying coffee grinders, people should ask themselves several question to make sure that it is worth making the investment. First of all, what is your budget? How often do you need to grind coffee? Who else drinks coffee in your house?

Usually, there are two types of coffee grinders to choose from: blade grinders and burr grinders. Blade coffee grinders are less expensive and fit very well in any kitchen due to their reduced dimensions; yet they cannot grind coffee the super fine way that is necessary for a Turkish coffee for example. Furthermore, they are quite difficult to clean, but that is not an operation you'll do too often. On the other hand, burr coffee grinders are the choice for true coffee lovers; the aroma of the coffee is thoroughly preserved, and though they are more expensive, users claim they are definitely worth the money.

with coffee pods you have lots of flavors to choose from

In a world where speed and efficiency are everything, even coffee making is considered time consuming under certain circumstances. For those coffee drinkers who are too in a hurry to spare some time to make a regular coffee, manufacturers in the business found a viable solution: coffee pods. Coffee pre-packaged in a filter is introduced in the coffee machine and while you take the morning shower, you'll get a steaming mug of coffee waiting for you. All sorts of coffee brands are available under the form of coffee pods; they are usually sold in twenty-piece packages and they are pretty easy to use at home or at the office as well.

Most coffee pods are designed according to standard sizes, so there is no problem about them not fitting your machine. For anyone interested in gardening, it is good to mention that the left overs in the coffee pods can be used as an excellent fertilizer for your plants; not to mention that there is hardly any mess whatsoever. Coffee pods are considered one of the best ways of preparing good espressos since the same quantity of ingredients are used every time; this was actually a great solution that made working in a café a lot easier than ever before.

Espresso is considered by many people the most difficult type of coffee to make right: lots of elements contribute to its incredible taste, water pressure, temperature, roast level and freshness. With coffee pods, one doesn't have to be experienced in making espressos since the system works every time; whether guests or clients require cream, exquisite flavor or strength, the coffee will have them all. Presently, there are dozens of coffee pods producers, among which the most famous are Philips Senseo, Mellita One, Black & Decker Home Cafe and so on.

There are not only coffee pods that can be purchased from super-markets, as the system applies very well to tea manufacturing as well. Lots of flavors to choose from and great prices are offered by almost all producers as this type of coffee packing is gaining preeminence; after all, our society tends to evolve towards the oversimplification of many processes required by normal households. Consequently, there comes a moment when using coffee pods is a lot more easier than traditional coffee making, particularly since there doesn't seem to be any difference in taste and quality.

tips for choosing a coffee maker

You may be having a coffee maker at home, but you may still want to know the different types of coffee makers in the market and choosing the one that suits you is made easy with this article. You need to answer the above questions before going to find a new Or, are you looking for a cheap coffee maker which makes coffee as quickly as possible? Do you want foam or options for espresso and cappuccino? Do you want a coffee maker having a built in grinder so that you can grind your own beans? It could be because you are a coffee addict and you need 10 cups every day or you may want to go for a smaller, single serve coffee maker? You need to answer the above questions before going to find a new coffee maker you should be clear with the reasons to purchase it. Or, are you looking for a cheap coffee maker which makes coffee as quickly as possible? Do you want foam or options for espresso and cappuccino? Do you want a coffee maker having a built in grinder so that you can grind your own beans? It could be because you are a coffee addict and you need 10 cups every day or you may want to go for a smaller, single serve coffee maker? Before going for a new coffee maker you should be clear with the reasons to purchase it. This can prepare just one or more cups at a time. It is a user friendly coffee maker and hence it is very familiar in the market. Here you need to put water either in the back or side of the coffee maker, put in a filter, fill it with coffee and then press the start button. The only thing you need to think about is the type of coffee maker is the “Automatic Dripâ€?. This can prepare just one or more cups at a time. It is a user friendly coffee maker and hence it is very familiar in the market. The only thing you need to put water either in the back or side of the coffee maker, put in a filter, fill it with coffee and then press the start button. This can prepare just one or more cups at a time. It is a user friendly coffee maker and hence it is very familiar in the market. Here you need to put water either in the back or side of the coffee maker, put in a filter, fill it with coffee and then press the start button. Obviously, the most familiar type of coffee maker is the “Automatic Dripâ€?. “Manual Drip” is the second most standard type of coffee maker. This is similar to automatic drip but here you need to heat up and pour the water manually, into the holder where the coffee filter is filled with coffee sits. Once it is drained into the pot your job is done and these can also make either single cup or up to 12 cups but aren’t usually used commercially. People who are into fishing, hunting and camping, choose this as it is convenient to carry along and you can heat the water according to your needs. If you want a cup of coffee at any moment you can use a stove, the campfire or even a hot car engine. For people who know exactly what they like, Espresso and Cappuccino machines are more effective. They are very expensive when compared to other normal coffee makers. Depending upon the type of machine, coffee makers utilize pressure, foam, froth and milk to prepare coffee. Nowadays, these types of machines are fast moving and are more affordable than ever before. If you look around, you will find the outmoded percolators, vacuum brewers, French presses and many more are available, both on-line as well as with the local dealer. Apart from these, there are numerous types of coffee makers which may attract you.

You may be having a coffee maker at home, but you may still want to know the different types of coffee makers in the market and choosing the one that suits you is made easy with this article.Before going for a new coffee maker.You can get quality coffee beans grounded from the store and add some flavors you like such as hazelnut, vanilla and cinnamon. Obviously, the most familiar type of coffee you want to put into it.If you look around, you will find the outmoded percolators, vacuum brewers, French presses and many more are available, both on-line as well as with the local dealer. Apart from these, there are numerous types of coffee makers which may attract you.

the major differences between decaffeinated and regular cofee

For anyone who loves coffee flavor, yet cannot stand the physical effects of caffeine, decaffeinated coffee is probably the best viable solution. How is decaffeinated coffee actually produced? There are all sorts of solvents used to eliminate this chemical responsible for adverse reactions such as increased blood pressure, arrhythmias and tachycardia; the result is a substance that preserves the tasty and flavor of real coffee without its potential side effects. Nevertheless, mention needs to be made that there is no 100% decaffeinated coffee on the market, and studies on various coffee brands have reflected the truthfulness of such a statement.

Does decaffeinated coffee taste the same as regular coffee? The answer is definitely yes, though the flavor parameters are slightly lower. By its very nature, coffee is very easily subject to chemical transformation. The flavor loss actually begins the moment roasted coffee beans are ground; this is why most packages are vacuumed to reduce the contact between coffee and the environment to the minimum. Decaffeinated coffee in its turn undergoes a double process: one common with that of regular coffee, and a second one that leads to the elimination of the nervous stimulus known as caffeine.

The competition for decaffeinated coffee is represented by chicory coffee, a substitute substance that is produced in a variety of flavors. Though it does not enjoy the same popularity as decaffeinated coffee, it is nevertheless an alternative almost just as tasty, particularly in its instant-preparation form. Furthermore, another issue worth to be tackled with here is that of partly decaffeinated coffee; as the name definitely suggests, this coffee variety is weaker than regular coffee. Hence, you should not try to make an espresso out of it, as you'll definitely be disappointed. Partly decaffeinated coffee is recommended to people who suffer from heart problems and need to limit the risk of getting hypertension.

One of the most outstanding discoveries was connected to the appearance of a coffee variety that is naturally decaffeinated. This species grows in Brazil and represents a great potential for a market that depends on diversity. Though it is in the project phase, the cultivation of naturally decaffeinated coffee is a great step towards combing the authenticity of flavor with the safety of the use. Basically, without the caffeine extraction processes, all natural savor of the coffee beans would remain unchanged; thus, in the coming years, we could actually be the witness of a true revolution in coffee manufacturing.

types of coffee makers

With hundreds of types of coffee maker on the market, you have many options available and are sure to find something that will suit your needs. Maybe you would like to try something new or your old coffee maker finally died and you need a good replacement. Many people have coffee makers but are curious what other types of coffee makers are available. These are just a few questions you should ask yourself before going to find a new coffee maker. Or, do you just want something cheap that will make coffee as easy as possible? Do you want foam or options for espresso and cappuccino? Do you need to grind your own beans and want a grinder built in? Are you a coffee addict who needs 10 cups a day or should you stick with a smaller single serve coffee maker? Before you buy a coffee maker you should figure out what exactly you want out of it. Quality coffee beans can be ground at stores and they can even be infused with flavors you like such as hazelnut, vanilla, and cinnamon. Naturally, the easiest and most common type of coffee you want to put into it. The second most popular type of coffee maker is the manual drip. This is just like the automatic drip except you heat up and pour the water yourself. You just pour it into the holder where the coffee filter filled with coffee sits. It drains into the pot and you are done. These also make either single cup or up to 12 cups but aren't usually used commercially. For people who love fishing, hunting, and camping, these are a good choice as they are portable and you can heat the water however you want. You can use a stove, campfire, even a hot car engine is an option if you really need a cup of coffee immediately. Espresso and cappuccino machines are more for a selective person who knows exactly what they like. Unlike a normal coffee maker, these are expensive and you need to practice to operate them efficiently. They utilize pressure, foam, froth, and milk depending on the type of machine you buy. Espresso and cappuccino are gaining popularity and these are becoming smaller and more affordable than ever before. In addition to these, there are many other types of coffee maker you may be interested in. There are old fashioned percolators, vacuum brewers, French presses, and much more available if you choose to look around. You can find anything you are looking for either on line or at a local retailer.

Many people have coffee makers but are curious what other types of coffee maker on the market, you have many options available and are sure to find something that will suit your needs.These are just a few questions you should ask yourself before going to find a new coffee maker. Or, do you just want something cheap that will make coffee as easy as possible? Do you want foam or options for espresso and cappuccino? Do you need to grind your own beans and want a grinder built in? Are you a coffee addict who needs 10 cups a day or should you stick with a smaller single serve coffee maker? Before you buy a coffee maker you should figure out what exactly you want out of it.Quality coffee beans can be ground at stores and they can even be infused with flavors you like such as hazelnut, vanilla, and cinnamon. It all depends on what you want to put into it. These can make just one cup at a time or gallons at a time. Its ease of use is one of the things that makes this type so appealing. This is where you put some water in the back or side, put in a filter, fill it with coffee, then push start. Naturally, the easiest and most common type of coffee maker is the automatic drip.

espresso tips

Another tips how to make a best espresso.

 

1.  Fresh beans – contributing to a plenty of quality crema derive from the roasted beans no longer than 7 days in storage.
2.  Fresh water – for this process should be well filtered, containing 97-98 % of purity.
   
3. Adequate machine – is needed for Espresso making. The machine with ability to produce plentiful whitish foam should force at least 9 bars of water pressure during the process.
   
4. Adequate grind – is regarded as another necessary factor to obtain fine coffee particles for Espresso. The operation should last 20 seconds for each shot of Espresso.
   
5. Adequate tamp – refers to the application of proper packing of coffee in the porta-filter with density described as 30 pounds of force.
   
   
   

 Fresh beans – contributing to a plenty of quality crema derive from the roasted beans no longer than 7 days in storage.

Fresh beans

 Fresh water – for this process should be well filtered, containing 97-98 % of purity.

 Fresh water

Adequate machine – is needed for Espresso making. The machine with ability to produce plentiful whitish foam should force at least 9 bars of water pressure during the process.

Adequate machine

Adequate grind – is regarded as another necessary factor to obtain fine coffee particles for Espresso. The operation should last 20 seconds for each shot of Espresso.

Adequate grind

Adequate tamp – refers to the application of proper packing of coffee in the porta-filter with density described as 30 pounds of force.

Adequate tamp

bit of espresso

Espresso  is a concentrated coffee beverage that is brewed by forcing extremely hot water (but not boiling) under very high pressure through finely ground coffee beans. The coffee is ground so small, it's almost a powder. It was invented in 1843 by Edward Loysel de Santais and premiered at the Paris Exposition of 1855.

 
People in Milan, Italy perfected espresso in the early 1900s. That said, it was made with steam pressure until the mid 1940s. When the spring piston lever machine was invented, commercial success was huge as it pertained to espresso machines. The same type of spring piston lever that was used in the late 1940s to make espresso is the same one that is used today.

 
There are several differences between espresso and other coffee. For example, espresso is thicker. Also, there are more dissolved solids in espresso than there are in coffee. Furthermore, a standard cup of coffee is 8 fluid ounces while a standard cup of espresso is just one ounce.

 
Espresso is a chemically complex fluid and is comprised of three different parts: the body, the heart and the crema. The latter is the most distinguishing characteristic of espresso, and is a reddish brown foam that floats on top of the espresso. Made out of proteins, sugars and vegetable oils, crema has elements of foam colloid and emulsion.

Essentially, espresso is a more concentrated form of coffee. The flavors are stronger than coffee because of the finely grated beans and the high pressure used during brewing. Because espresso is so intense and concentrated, it mixes well with other liquids to form different coffee based drinks.

 

Espresso Coffee Maker

Instead of going to the local coffee shop, use your espresso machines instead. There are some excellent opportunities out there for you in these new, must have options for your kitchen. Once only used in coffee shops and in restaurants that were high end, these machines have been made so that anyone, anywhere can use them rather easily.

Espresso machines are available in several ways. You may have a favorite method of making the espresso or perhaps you are looking for something that offers a distinctive taste. In most cases, you will find that there are espresso machines that do just what you are looking for. Because they are so easy to use, you will be able to make your favorite espresso flavors yourself as well. On top of this, you will also find that some machines are also combinations. Love cappuccino as well? Would you like a standard coffee maker along with your new espresso machine? These too can be purchased. You will find them available in a variety of styles and colors to fit any kitchen.

Yet another feature that is important to comment on is their quality. Some of the espresso machine styles that are on the market for individual use are in fact quite capable of making coffee house style coffee that is rich and full flavored, missing nothing except the price tag. And, you can experiment with coffee beans that fit your tastes while in a coffee house you may be limited. Purchase gourmet varieties for pennies on the dollar online and enjoy the coffee that is nothing short of amazing every day that you wake up.

Worried about dealing with these things each morning? Don't be, because you will find it very hard to find an espresso machine that isn't easy to use. Clean up is often just as easy as a standard coffee maker so that is not a problem as well. Espresso machines look great, work great and add an air of sophistication to your life. ***

 

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by Matthew Noel

About the author: For more information please see http://www.espresso-machine-shack.co.uk

http://www.espresso-machine-shack.co.uk

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Top Three Brewing coffee

There are many way to brew a coffee. Here is the top 3 Brewing Method :

1. Espresso

   Probably the most popular of the Coffee Brewing Methods in recent times is making an Espresso using a machine. Super hot, pressurized water is forced through fine ground, tightly packed coffee. The pressurized infusion process ensures that the water stays in contact with the coffee grounds long enough to draw out much of the coffee ground flavor. The water then finds a path through the coffee grounds. And the coffee commences to pour into your cup. When the water finds a path through the coffee grind it is referred to as the 'shot being pulled' through the group. The sign of a good espresso, using fresh coffee beans, is the richness of the crema. Crema is the hazelnut foam that sits on the surface of the coffee. This is produced by the pressurizing process and the oils of the coffee bean. Oils break down with time, and so a rich crema will be produced using fresh beans. And if you didn't catch it when I started talking about Espresso, use a fine grind. Using a course grind allows the water to 'brush past' the grind rather than infuse with it. Using a course grind will still produce a good coffee, but it will taste more like a coffee produced using a Drip Filter coffee brewing method rather than true Espresso coffee.

2. French Press

   One of the simplest of all Coffee Brewing Methods is the French Press or Plunger. This is probably the easiest way to make great coffee! The French Press works by directly mixing ground coffee with near boiling water. The coffee flavors get drawn out into the water and then the press or plunger is depressed, separating the exhausted coffee grind from the brew. While the process has a similar taste to the Drip Filtration style, the French Press can extract more flavor from the coffee grind by extending the brewing time. Manual infusion requires you to get your timing right. If you let the brewing process run too long you may end up with a bitter coffee. Conversely, if you brew too quickly you will have a weak tasting coffee.
   
   One more point, use a course grind. You don't want fine ground coffee escaping through the metal filter and into the brew. A dusty cup of coffee is not an experience worth having.
   

3. Drip Filtration

   Let's start with the Drip Filtration style. Drip Filtration is probably the most popular method of all. The Drip Filtration machine works by spraying hot water across ground coffee that is held in a conical shaped filter. The hot water then slowly moves through the ground coffee. Once the water reaches the bottom of the conical filter, it drips into a container beneath it. The most widely used conical filters are made of paper, while expensive stainless steel or gold conical filters are also available. When buying paper filters, be sure to use oxygen bleached paper. Chemically treated papers may affect the taste of your coffee. Another point to be aware of with paper filters is that you may also have some of the flavorful coffee oils trapped by the paper filter. It is the oils that produce the rich crema when you make an espresso. The grind is also important with Drip Filtration. If the grind is too fine, you may clog the pores of your filter. You can avoid this by using a course grind (read about grinding here).

 

So you have it, enjoy your coffee.