The Top Fully Automatic Espresso Machine

When you're looking for an espresso machine, I wanted to showcase on why you should choose an automatic one, rather than a stove top one, or even an semi-automatic one. What you're going to find out is that you're going to have to spend a few extra dollars, but it's going to be well worth it!

What makes an automatic machine so special?

Just think of the word, "automatic." It's going to do all the work for you. All you're going to have to do is load up the machine with the ingredients, press a button, and sit back and wait. While it sounds easy, it is, but if you're comparing it to other machines on the market, you will soon find out that other ones are going to be a lot of work.

An automatic one knows when to stop, it can mix the perfect blend, and it's going to take the headache out of the machine. Yes, while these can cost you a few extra dollars, what you're going to find out is that it's going to be well worth it! You have to look at it as a long term investment, rather than saving money today.

What kind of machine do you recommend?

DeLonghi ESAM330: It has one of the best reviews online. It's a little high in the price, but when you read the reviews about this particular model created by Delonghi, you will be impressed when you get it to your front door!

Nespresso C100-US-AERO-B: This is one that's not going to break the bank. You're going to get everything that you want in a machine, but you're not going to have to pay the hefty price tag. This particular model can be yours for less than $260.

Krups XP7260: This one is going to look great on your counter top. It has a great, sleek design, and it's not going to cost you an arm and leg! It's equipped with more features than you can handle.

When you're ready to go out and purchase one, there are a few things to consider...

#1 Price - Yes, consider the price, but remember that you don't want to be too cheap!

#2 Features - They all vary in features. Do your homework and see what you want in a machine. They are all different.

#3 Brands - Get one that's going to work for you. Make sure that it has great reviews.

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Coffee Vending Machine - The Foundation Of the Vending Machine Business

A coffee vending machine is a common sight in most locations where there are plenty of people. Whether you are in an airport, a hospital or an office building, the chances of being able to get a cup of coffee, a snack or a soda from a vending machine is very good. However, the number of specialty coffee shops is proving to be competition for these vending machines. This is why many of the coin-operated coffee vending machines now offer customers the opportunity to enjoy specialty coffee.

When it comes to vending machines, soda, snack, or coffee, customers want freshness. Therefore, if you have a coin operated vending machine that dispenses coffee or snacks, you do have to make sure that the quality of the product is always fresh. If you have coffee vending machines placed in locations where they are not doing well, the best thing is for you to find a location where the product will sell better, After a while the coffee in the machine goes stale and customers will not buy any at all.

Most business owners and managers will be very receptive if you approach them with your idea for coin-operated coffee vending machines. Since most employees do slip out to the nearest coffee shop for a refill, being able to offer specialty coffee at the business location does a lot for company morale. A small store near an office building will also like to have a coffee vending machine because the workers that come in for coffee will also purchase something else. In a vending machine, soda, snacks and fruit are really cold which goes over well on a hot summer day.

If you are fortunate enough to be able to place your coffee vending machines in the staff room of a school or business, you will do well with your vending machine business. All you have to do is set up a schedule for visiting the coin-operated vending machines to replenish the supply of coffee. You also need to provide a telephone number so that if the vending machine, soda, snacks or coffee runs out, someone from that location can call you to let you know. Being able to keep the vending machines fully stocked is one thing you need to do to succeed in this business.

The coffee vending machines of today offer larger cups of coffee than the older models. There are also better thermal and brewing systems in these coin-operated vending machines, which translates into offering your customers a better cup of coffee for their money. You do need to offer the same quality of coffee from your coffee vending machines as the customers can get at Starbucks or Tim Horton's.

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Super Automatic Espresso Machine

When you're looking to purchase a super automatic espresso machine, you're probably wondering what the heck that you should look for in a machine to make it worth while to you. While they are all different, I wanted to give you a great checklist that you can look at, to make your purchasing process a lot easier. You can almost consider it like a new car purchase.

#1 Are you brand loyal? The major brand name in the espresso industry would be DeLonghi in my opinion. They make some great products, but they are going to come with a price tag. Do your homework and see if it's something made for you.

#2 What's your budget? With a super automatic machine, you're going to want to spend some big bucks probably, but you don't have to spend thousands. Instead, you can get a good machine for under $200. What is it that you want to spend? You don't want to be too cheap here!

#3 How many cups? How many cups do you want to make with your machine? Most machines are going to make you about 3-4 cups. If you want something more, the biggest one that I have seen on the market is about 6 of them.

#4 What size? Is this going to go on a counter top, or is it going to go on table? They are all going to range in size, so make sure that you're going to get something that fits.

#5 How easy it is to clean? Does it have a removable cup? What do other people think of it? The more that you can take a part, the better it is going to be for you when it comes to cleaning it up.

#6 Look into other features - There are some other cool features that you can consider such as heated trays, electronic steam, stainless steel, and more. We all know that the more you get in terms of features, the more you're going to have to pay. Remember though that you're going to get your moneys worth, so you don't want to be cheap!

When you're ready to consider a machine, here are a few brands that I would recommend that you check out.

*Delonghi
*Saeco
*Jura-Capresso
*Rowenta

Check these brands out and see which one will best suit you for your next espresso that you make at your home!

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Automatic Espresso Machines

Commercially used espresso machines can be broadly divided into two kinds: semi-automatic and fully automatic. Fully automatic machines are also termed 'super-automatic espresso machines'. These machines are fast gaining entry into the commercial as well as the household use.

In a semi-automatic espresso machine, the amount of water used for making coffee can be determined by either the user or the machine. Also, the user has to dispose and dose the coffee grounds. The user also steams the milk using a steam wand.

An automatic espresso machine may offer automatic brewing, in which the machine defines the amount of water to be used. These machines typically have two settings, single and double shot.

Various automatic machines also offer automatic dosing, in which the machine takes in the proper amount of coffee, and discards it after brewing. Coffee is ground, dosed, brewed and discarded automatically in a maker which offers automatic grinding. The bypass doser feature in some machines allows one to use ground coffee and adjustable dosage.

Semi-automatic espresso machines are those used at homes or a small scale office or restaurant. A heat exchanger or distributor is used to heat the brewing water. This is one of the most important differences between automatic espresso machines and good home espresso making machines. The boiler is used for the steam, and is kept at a higher temperature. This also ensures that the steam is available at all times.

While single boiler machines use only one boiler for preparing steam and heating the brewing water, the heat exchanger or extra boiler makes it unnecessary to switch modes while using automatic espresso machines.

After the coffee is brewed, the pressure in the portafilter is automatically released through a valve.

Some companies manufacturing semi and fully automatic espresso making machines are Gensaco, Krups, Pasquini, Brasilia, and Europa.

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The Jura Capresso Z5 - Coffee Machine Extraordinaire Or Not Worth It?

All through my college years I worked as a coffee barista in a specialty coffee shop and grew to love the fancy coffee beverages I served there to my customers. After I moved on, I realized I had to get something that would help me keep on enjoying them. I looked around for a high quality home coffee center that would last me for a long, long time, and I discovered the Jura Capresso Z5 espresso machine. With this beauty I found I was able to make coffee drinks that were as good as or even better than the beverages I created in the restaurant - and with only a push of a button!

The Jura Capresso Z5 is very simple to use; no mess or fuss. With merely the pushing of a button, the coffee beans are ground, the milk is frothed to perfection, and your beverage is exactly as hot as you wish it to be. Trust me... this can be a difficult feat for even a professional and practiced barista to accomplish, but with the Jura Capresso Z5, you get it every time, and in your own home none the less! Such a treat!

For those of you who are coffee connoisseurs and want your specialty coffees exactly so, the Jura Capresso Z5 has 8 pre-programmed settings that you may use as a platform to creating your perfect cup. Each setting is fabulous as is, but you can without difficulty adjust it and make your coffee mild or strong, have more or less froth, and so on. And once your cup is finished, the Jura Capresso Z5 even removes used coffee beans, so that clean-up is a snap!

As an ex-professional barista, I can tell you that consistently making professional-quality coffee drinks with no complaints is not an easy feat. But using the Jura Capresso Z5 espresso machine, there's very little effort required! It really is a huge time and stress saver, and makes for very happy drinkers, every time. With a delicious cappuccino, mocha, espresso, latte, or other coffee drink at your fingertips in mere minutes, life in the kitchen can't get any better!

Another great thing about the Jura Capresso Z5 coffee machine is that it can change between drinks with no difficulty and very quickly. Hosting friends and family is undoubtedly made more pleasurable when you're able to offer them a variety of fantastic drinks and make them flawlessly within a very short time frame.

Before you are persuaded the Jura Capresso Z5 is for you, you need to be aware that this espresso machine supreme is quite expensive, ranging around $3,000 for a new one. If you already know you want to enjoy professional-quality coffee for the rest of your life, however, it could be well worth the money spent - you will never have to go out for or purchase a coffee again!

Tags : DeLonghi EC5 Espresso maker

What You Need in an Espresso Machine

If you are new to buying espresso machines, you will want to take a little time to make sure that you are learning as much as you can about the machine. This is the best way to make sure that you are buying a machine that has everything that you need and that lacks all of the bells and whistles that you really do not need. This is the smart way to shop.

An espresso machine can look very intimidating to many people, especially those who do not have a lot of experience owning or using something of that nature. Once you start to use it though and understand how everything works, all of the features will come together and you will not remember what it was that caused you concern in the past. This is when you know that you are an espresso expert.

Now, for the households that do not contain people who all drink the same things, a combination machine might be the best bet. While you might enjoy your espresso, someone else in the house may want just simple cups of coffee. There are espresso machines out there that do both. Even if you are the only one in the house, this may be an option you want in case you have company over that does not want espresso.

One nice feature on many espresso machines would be the dispenser of hot water. This may not be something that you would have thought about before but it is a nice thing to have if you like the occasional cup of hot chocolate or tea. You will no longer have to drag the kettle out.

You might want to look into espresso machines that have strength controls. This is a feature that will allow you to be in complete control of how much water goes into each pull. This way, you can make a super strong espresso or a light espresso. You can literally make your espresso any strength you would like for it to be.

While it may not be a standard feature in many espresso machines, the built in grinder is a nice option. This will allow you to have the freshest espresso you have ever tasted. Of course, this kind of feature is going to run a lot extra so it might only be worth it if you have extra money in your budget to spend.

A common feature with an espresso machine is the cup warmer. It may not be the most high-tech thing you have ever seen but you will want to make sure that your cup is always kept warm. It is a nice additional feature that you could live without, but you will not want to.

As you can easily see, there are many options to pick and choose from when it comes to shopping for an espresso machine. It is important to make sure that you are taking everything into consideration, including your budget. If this is your first machine and you are tight on cash, you can always go with a simple model and then up-grade later down the road.

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Chocolate Covered Espresso Beans - Wholesale

For a coffee addict chocoholic, the thought of a double fix through Chocolate Covered Espresso Beans is almost too much. Being able to buy Chocolate Covered Espresso Beans Wholesale online and have them delivered to my door is like a dream come true. I am a frequent flyer when it come to buying online but what if you are not?

You want to buy Chocolate Covered Espresso Beans wholesale. You know that the Internet is probably THE place to get the best deals and quality products. But what you aren't sure of is how to go about buying Chocolate Covered Espresso Beans wholesale without risking your credit card numbers or your identity. Everybody's heard of those horror tales about people getting their identities stolen and their bank accounts cleared out. It can and does happen if you don't know how to shop online.

Buying chocolate covered espresso beans wholesale online, or any product for that matter, is not as frightening or difficult as you might think. You just need to know the precautions when you start entering your credit card numbers online.

First, always know what you're buying. Although a Web site may say it has the best chocolate covered beans, make sure to study the seller's item description carefully, including any photographs they may have. Watch out for fine print and any unusual adjectives that might suggest that what you'll get in the mail won't exactly be what they offered online. And remember the old saying, "If something sounds too good to be true...." If those high-grade espresso beans seem too cheap, chances are they might not be as high-grade as you first thought.

The second step is to be careful how you buy. Before making a purchase at any Web site, find out what type of payments the site will accept and how they are going to ship their products. A red flag could be any Web site that asks for your Social Security numbers, your driver's license numbers, or your bank account information. You shouldn't have to give these things for some candy. Check to on the bottom of your tool bar, there should be a padlock to indicate security. Any reputable website offering chocolate covered espresso beans will probably have a secure online shop and they will tell you that.

There are extra precautions that you can take though. Record every purchase you make online. That means printing hard copies of all transaction information, including the shipping information including when you are expected to receive your espress beans and any e-mails that the Web site sends you. Keep the name of the Web site, the official online description of the beans you bought (what weight of beans you have ordered, for instance), and the exact date, time, and price of your purchase. These will be very handy if a problem occurs and the Web site shortchanges you.

If the worst comes to the worst, and you still don't feel secure buying your delicious chocolate covered beans online, most Web sites will also offer an 800 number. That way, you can order your chocolatey beans the old-fashioned way over the phone. Or better yet, have them send you their wholesale catalog.

Thanks To : Nespresso CitiZ Espresso Maker

French Coffee Presses Are the Best Cheap Gourmet Coffee Maker

One of the recent trends in the world of the gourmet coffee maker has been the spread of French coffee presses into the home. It wasn't that long ago when if people wanted the best coffee around the house, they would shell out hundreds upon hundreds of dollars for super pricey, restaurant quality machines. Many people still do this, but cheap coffee makers like French coffee presses can get the job done as well. Here's a look at what makes these so great for your around the home usage.

Everybody wants coffee that tastes great, but that can be easier said than done many times as most people can attest to. A gourmet coffee maker should produce coffee that consistently tastes above and beyond your expectations. Your coffee should be fresh, flavorful and aromatic every time you brew up a cup.

The problem with many machines is that with all of those electronic and machine parts, all of those metal and plastic components and more, you're going to end up with a lot of distortions to your coffee. This will not help in your goal of enjoying great tasting, fresh coffee each and every time.

French coffee presses are the ideal solution because they are completely minimalist. There are no additional parts or pieces, and there's nothing complex behind the scenes that is going on. All you have is a basic glass or composite exterior and then a plunger piece that will remove all of the grounds from your coffee so that you can drink it.

People have the misconception that French coffee presses are hard to use or they take a long time to brew up a cup. But in less than 10 minutes you can brew up a few cups exactly to your strength and taste specifications. All you need to do is first boil some water, then pour it over your grounds, let it sit and then press the concoction down so you're left with the great coffee.

As mentioned, French coffee presses are also some of the best cheap coffee makers. This is because there is so little to them besides basic principles and parts, that they don't cost anything to make or manufacturer. They are pretty fool proof, so all of that savings is passed along to you. You can purchase some of the highest rated home coffee machines in the form of French coffee presses for less than $20! It doesn't get better than that.

So if you're looking for a gourmet coffee maker for around the home, don't feel like you have to spend hundreds of dollars. For $20 or less you can buy some of the best French coffee makers from respected companies like Bodum or Planetary Design, and you'll be on your way to fantastic coffee, readily and easily made from your home whenever you want.

See Also : Breville 800ESXL Espresso Machine DeLonghi EC5 Espresso maker

Coffee Culture Around the World

What would you call a morning that does not involve coffee? Definitely that is not a good morning! Coffee has been an essential part of our day's start. Not only that, coffee is a drink that remains popular at all times and with all age groups. Today, different coffee houses and even online tea stores are increasing the coffee and tea culture. Blooming tea, coffee and other drinks have become a part of our lives and nobody is new to them. Coffee houses are not only meant for coffee anymore. Different coffee houses and bistros around the block are meeting points and a place to share the latest gossip with your friends.

Coffee culture is basically a media term that is more popularly used for a social place that is enclosed with an ambiance of coffee and tea all around it. Due to the popularity across the globe, there are different ways and different rituals about coffee everywhere.

In Asia, people generally like to have a lighter and sweeter coffee as compared to the other Western countries. Coffee houses are usually places of gathering and social gatherings. The most preferred is Cappuccino. In Northern Europe, coffee is served at parties with homemade cakes, pastries and cookies. Coffee in Turkey becomes slightly different. The beans are fine and the water is boiled approximately three times and then placed in a long handle brass pot. At times cardamom or sugar is also added. The French usually drink coffee at the start of the day, and to Germans, it is a drink for social gatherings.

There are religious boundaries associated with coffee and tea as well. Different religions have different things to say about coffee. In Islam, tea and coffee is prohibited only at the time of fasting. The fast lasts from dawn to dusk and all the edibles, including water, are prohibited at that time.

Coffee is prohibited to Mormons. Also known as the Latter-Day Saints, followers of this religion prohibit coffee because they think it blocks their spiritual connections. According to the Words of Wisdom, it is said, "Hot drinks are not for the body or belly" (D&C 89:9). It is interpreted that Joseph Smith actually referred to tea and coffee because they were the only hot drinks available at that time.

According to the Seventh Day Adventist, the views about coffee are somewhat mixed. Previously, they prohibited it as they largely emphasize on a healthy diet. Therefore, to them it was prohibited as it contains caffeine. However, this view is somewhat obsolete now and no longer implemented. Still, it is supposed to be avoided.

In Judaism, there are actually no issues with coffee. Issues are there with kosher. Kosher issues arise from tea and coffee both. Flavored coffee might use different flavorings, flavored beans and syrups that do not answer all the kosher issues. The same goes with decaffeinated coffee as it contains ethyl acetate.

Rastafarians are quite similar to the Seventh Day Adventist and generally emphasize on a healthy diet. This genre prohibits the use of tobacco, alcohol, salt, coffee, meat and other processed edibles. Their diet mainly depends on grains, fruits and vegetables.

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How to Make the Best Espresso Shot

As you are expanding your espresso tasting palate and coffee repertoire, it is incredibly important that you become a connoisseur and a snob so that you can create the perfect brew every time. This is also completely helpful if you are ordering espresso from a local coffee shop or café, which we all have to do from time to time, so that you can judge their product and know if it is up to par. Firstly, I hope that you are using a high quality espresso machine for your home use so that you can focus on creating a premium brew products with advanced technology. The good news for all of you Java lovers out there is that there are many affordable machines, many of them under $1000, that have incredibly long life spans and are worth it once you do the math on all of these $3 lattes that you have been purchasing every day. It will also save you money to look for a high quality machine that also includes a grinder, like the La Pavoni Napolitana, which is only $600, and has a built-in grinder and coffee press.

Now let's get down to business on making the perfect shot. You will definitely want to freshly grind your beans to a fine consistency, and then tamper them down into your filter. Make sure that you do not tamp too tightly so that the water can still infuse the espresso properly, otherwise this will result in a weak shot. The ideal brewing time for your shot should be around 10 seconds so that you can make sure that your grounds are properly extracted. If you experience any issues with the brew being too fast or too slow, this may mean that you need to check your grind consistency because it could be to coarse or too fine. After that, you can take a look at your product, and ideally, there should be a brown, rich crema on top to signify quality. The color of the brew should be a dark hazelnut with a deep scent of chocolate and fruit undertones. It is important to drink your brew right away because the aromas and flavors will begin to compromise if you let it sit for a period of time, and the texture and consistency of your shot should be smooth like velvet, with a balance that is not overly bitter.

A few last things to note for the best brew possible is to use filtered water and not tap water because the chlorine content in tap water can affect the taste, not to mention create lime scale in your fine machine. Focus on a thick crema because this is really what reflects the quality of the brewing process, the beans, and the grind. When all of these elements come together, it is like a beautiful espresso symphony that means that you have made the perfect shot! Practice makes perfect, so don't give up, and use this time to keep striving for the best of the best.

See Also : Nespresso C100 Espresso Machine Cuisinart DCC-1200 coffee maker

What To Look For In A Coffee Grinder

Freshly brewed coffee is all the rage today and you have been bit by the bug. You enjoy your quick stop into the local coffee shop to order your special drink as you head to work in the morning. But what should you do on the weekends when you are staying around the house but still want that great cup of coffee without going out to get it.

The answer to this is as simple as purchasing a coffee grinder and a coffee pot to use on the weekends. You can purchase one in any coffee shop, retail store and in most hardware stores. The basic concept is simple-the blade style grinder uses a small, universal electrical motor to spin two metal blades at very high speeds. When in contact with the coffee beans, the blades chop and crush the beans into a fine grind. There are many different makes and models and the price can range from under $20 to over $200 depending on whether or not you want special features or a brand named machine.

You have decided to purchase your own coffee grinder, but what features should you need or want to have available. Some simple questions to consider are:

* How much do I want to spend?

* How loud is it when grinding?

* Is it easy to clean after each use?

* Will I have an opportunity to use the machine before I purchase it?

Keep all of these questions in mind when you go shopping. Once you start searching, you will find that there are very distinct differences between each and every type of coffee grinder. You know that the more costly the item, the better the quality of the machine-but, there is also the cost factor. You might want to ask yourself the following questions when it comes to the quality of your item.

* How much will I use this grinder?

* Will I only be grinding one style of coffee or varying the different types of coffee?

* Will I use it ever day or only on weekends?

* Will I use it for entertaining?

If you are just going to be a weekend user and not using it to constantly entertain, you may not want to invest a great deal of money. It might just be cheaper to purchase a lower priced coffee grinder that you can easily replace every year or so or as needed.

Now that you have your basic questions down, it is time to go out and start searching for your coffee grinder. You can check the stores or you can just go to the internet and order one and have it shipped to you-saving time and energy on your part.

It is now time to start enjoying freshly grounded and brewed coffee at home. Who knows, you might end up liking your homemade coffee more than what you were purchasing at the coffee shop. And, in the end, you might just save yourself hundreds of dollars a year if you make your coffee at home in the morning.

Related : DeLonghi EC5 Espresso maker Breville 800ESXL Espresso Machine Keurig B70 coffee maker

Drinking Coffee Can Help Prevent Gout

Once again the health benefits of coffee have been mooted. Recently there have been discussions on the positive effects of coffee on liver disease and female memory. Now there is some early evidence that coffee can help us avoid gout.

The bottom line is that if you drink four more cups of coffee per day then you can reduce your chances of getting gout? At least, this is what the research tells us. This particular study was conducted in Canada against a generally recognised background of advice to actually avoid coffee in people particularly prone to gout.

Gout is a painful joint condition brought about by the build up in the blood of a chemical called uric acid. The study looked at about 50,000 men who had no prior history of gout. Caffeinated coffee appeared to be an avoiding factor but interestingly, so did the decaffeinated variety. Drinking tea conferred no benefit whatsoever.

This is interesting work although the authors would state that such early evidence is not conclusive. More research is needed to determine the precise mechanisms whereby coffee interacts with the uric acid metabolic pathway.

However, the study appeared to be no fluke. The actual level of uric acid in the blood of these men was indeed lower. And it is the uric acid levels themselves that makes a person more prone to gout. There is no evidence that caffeine itself reduced uric acid levels (hence the connection with decaffeinated coffee) but rather some other component of the drink that affects the uric acid levels.

See Also : DeLonghi EC5 Espresso maker Cuisinart EM-100 Espresso Maker

Espresso - Brewing the Perfect Shot at Home

Creating the perfect espresso at home can be challenging, but well worth it. Brewing espresso properly takes a little more care and knowledge than just brewing a cup of coffee.

First, make sure you have the proper machine for espresso. There are many home machines on the market, from small inexpensive models for around $30, to ultra fancy $2000 models. They type you get will of course depend on your budget and what you are looking for, but keep in mind that getting quality espresso will usually result in paying at least several hundred dollars for a machine. The functions to look for in a quality machine include: - a hot water tank that will heat the water to around 190F. - It should have an adjustable pressure meter on it. Good espresso is pulled when the pressure gauge reads around 9 atmospheres. - If you are going to be making milk based drinks such as lattes and cappuccinos, you will want a milk steamer wand. Separate hot water tanks for the espresso and steamer are best, as the pressure won't be depleted for the espresso when you steam the milk.

The next most important item is the coffee itself. You want the freshest coffee you can find. And it should be whole bean. If you are going to take the time to brew your own espresso, really make it worthwhile and grind it yourself! You can either purchase your coffee at a local coffee house, or through mail order. Try to only order as much coffee as you will be using in a week or two. Contrary to popular belief, espresso does not have to be extremely dark roasted coffee. The best espresso can come from a more medium to dark roast than a very oily bean. Too dark and your espresso may come out bitter. Also, if you are drinking milk-based beverages, don't buy a light roast, as you need the espresso to be able to cut through the milk.

And speaking of grinding, you will want a particular type of grinder - a burr grinder. The common grinder available (and the cheapest) is a blade grinder. While these certainly do the job of grinding coffee beans, the resulting grounds are uneven in texture. Espresso really requires a fine consistent grind, since pressure is used to brew the espresso, rather than just seeping through the grounds. Burr grinders grind the coffee through rotating discs, which create an even grind. The burr grinders are also adjustable, so you can play with the grind that works best with your espresso machine. And don't run flavored coffee through your burr grinder, it can gum up on the parts and cause the grinder not to work properly. Save the flavored coffee for your blade grinder.

The perfect amount of espresso for a shot is 7 grams exactly. This much espresso will should give you a shot pull of around 20 seconds, which is just about the ideal amount of time to create the best shot.

Sound a little complicated? It's not - once you start making the espresso properly for yourself, you will never go back to your old way of brewing! A little knowledge and preparation will result in espresso that will rival any local coffee shop!

Recommend : Nespresso CitiZ Espresso Maker

Espresso Machine Reviews

Espresso and the preparation of espresso is nothing less than an art. It cannot be denied that espresso making machines form the very heart of this art, and therefore are an item of constant review by experts as well as coffee drinkers. Some of the best espresso makers in terms of consistency, taste of product and common durability are:

Delonghi Magnificia Automatic Espresso Machine: Available at around $600, this super-automatic espresso machine can make a variety of espresso. It can make espresso, cappuccino, coffee or even latte with this machine. The machine has a self-cleaning system, which works automatically. Also, it is a beans-to-brew system, which grounds the beans immediately.

Rancio Silvia: The Rancio Silvia has periodically been hailed as one of the best value for money machines. It is made up of durable steel and has a forged-glass-boiler. It has a twelve-ounce boiler capacity and can prepare steam in 20 seconds. A double shot of espresso takes 40 seconds on an average and it can steam four ounces of steam within 20 seconds. It is available at around $500.

Krups Allegro FND111: The Krups Allegro FND111 is one of the entry-level espresso makers in the market. This steam-driven-espresso maker is simple to use and doesn't require a huge investment. This machine is available at around $50. However, it is sometimes said that Krups machines do not prepare a genuine espresso, because they cannot maintain the required pressure.

Gaggia Carezza: The Gaggia Carezza works as well as the other higher-end espresso machines. However, the main difference between the expensive ones and Gaggia is the plastic housing, as opposed to the steel housing that expensive machines have.

Recommend : Zojirushi EC-BD15 Coffee Maker Cuisinart DCC-1100 Coffee maker Keurig B70 coffee maker

Ideas For a Coffee Maker Replacement

Most coffee makers are designed and built to last for many, many years. They are usually made of durable materials that can withstand several years of daily use, and even some abuse. However, no matter how expensive or heavy duty the brewer is, it will not last forever. Normal wear and tear, age, damage, and new innovation & technology will eventually force you to replace your brewer with a newer model.

Some common "symptoms" indicating that it is time for a coffee maker replacement is when it produces coffee with a slight after taste.

This is usually results from the residue left by previous brews and which cannot be cleaned thoroughly. When the appliance does not function as well as they did before like when it does not make coffee as quick as it used to, then that is another sign that it is time for replacement.

Another reason is when the coffee maker repair is much more expensive than buying a new machine. Why waste good money on repairing an old coffee machine when you can purchase a brand new one, at less cost at that? This however is not always the case. If it is only a simple case such as a broken carafe, then a simple coffee pot replacement will suffice; there is no need to replace the whole appliance.

Sometimes the reason for the machine replacement may even be as simple as the machine being too large. Older models used to be quite bulky and heavy. Automatic coffee makers such as a Braun coffee maker and espresso machines such as Delonghi take up too much counter space, and can be very inconvenient and difficult to maintain.

One solution to that problem is to replace the bulky coffee machine with a one cup coffee maker. There are a wide range of it available in the market. If you have a bigger budget, you can opt for single serve brewers such as the ones by Keurig, Tassimo or Nespresso. These single serve pod machines are small but durable, very easy to use and also very easy to maintain.

Moreover, they are not just functional but are also very stylish. They come in a variety of colors to fit in with your decor. For those with a smaller budget, a manual drip coffee maker is the solution, such as the Melitta Ready Set Joe, which are filter cones that fit onto your coffee mug.

They are small and compact and they are easy to take with you anywhere. They are economical too since they do not run on electricity. All you need is hot water and your coffee grounds to enjoy a fresh cup of coffee any time.

Visit : Cuisinart DCC-1100 Coffee maker Nespresso C100 Espresso Machine Cuisinart DCC-1200 coffee maker

Bialetti Espresso Machines - One Of The Best Types Of Espresso Machines Out There

If you are looking for an espresso machine, then surely you are beginning to get frustrated with all of the different options that are available to choose from. There are so many different brands, features and colors that you can choose from and so thus it can be very confusing to be able to decide on just one.

The Bialetti Espresso Machines

The Bialetti espresso machines are considered as being one of the best types of espresso machines that are out there and available to you, and there are many very good reasons for this, one of the most major being in regards to just how great of a company Bialetti is.

Bialetti is a company which has been around for quite some time now, and over that time they have gained an incredibly respected reputation. They offer all of the qualities that you should be looking for in any company, which are: high quality products, affordable prices, and great customer service.

The Bialetti espresso machines are by far some of the best espresso machines that you can find, as they offer more and better features and as well you even have the option of having them custom made, if that is your desire.

Another great quality about the Bialetti espresso machines is the fact of how durable they are, as the Bialetti espresso machines will really last you for a lifetime. They also look great in any décor, and they are available in a wide range of colors and styles.

If you are interested in having your espresso machine custom made, for instance if you would like it in a unique or specific color, or if you would like an inscription written on it for instance, then you are going to have to contact the Bialetti company and speak to them about this. You can find out more about bialetti machines and espresso machines at http://www.bestespressocoffeemachines.com

You are most likely going to have to pay a bit extra if you want to go this route, however if you are really interested in doing so, then it will obviously be worth it.

There are so many other options that you have as well when it comes to espresso machine options, however Bialetti is without a doubt one of the best companies out there in this regards, and so thus you are definitely going to want to consider getting your espresso machine from them rather than from any other company.

Tags : Cuisinart DCC-1100 Coffee maker

Delonghi Drip Coffee Maker DCF212T is Easy to Use

Every coffee lover longs to have the perfect coffee machine. Before purchasing espresso machines or cappuccino makers, many consumers do their research first, mostly by reading the coffee machine reviews of a certain product over the Internet.

A big part of the decision to purchase a particular coffee machine is based largely on the good reviews it has. One such product with rave reviews is the Delonghi drip coffee maker DCF212T.

What makes this coffee maker stand out from the other coffee makers? The DCF212T model is designed and packed with features that aim to give the user a more convenient and practical coffee making experience.

Users of the DCF212T unit rave about the full front-loading design of this machine, claiming that it is the model's best feature and is the number one reason why they purchase this drip coffee maker.

The front-loading design gives the user complete frontal access to the water tank and coffee filter so that filling the water and coffee grounds is practically hassle free.

The water tank can be accessed by opening the handle on the front door making it more convenient for the user - no need to move the whole unit or to awkwardly reach for the tank in the back, as is the case with most coffee machines.

This is one feature that you won't be able to find in any espresso machine or cappuccino coffee machine. The only disadvantage to this design is that it requires the unit to have a slightly larger footprint than your ordinary coffee machine but the larger footprint is definitely offset by the convenience the frontal access provides.

Another highlight of this DCF212T is its permanent gold tone filter. The permanent filter is a practical feature of this coffee maker as it eliminates the need for the user to purchase and use disposable coffee filters every time coffee is brewed. Talk about a lot of savings. Plus, it's easy to clean too.

The Delonghi DCF212T has a 24 hour programmable digital timer which features automatic shut-off after two hours. You can program you coffee maker to brew coffee at your desired time and the brewer will do the rest.

This can save a lot of your precious morning time, especially for those who always rush off to work early. No need to worry about safety too, thanks to the automatic shut off feature so that if you forget to turn off the coffee machine when you leave this brewer will do it for you.

Now this brewer also has an Aroma Button to give you a unique brewing experience. The aroma button enhances the aroma and the flavor of the coffee by releasing water in the filter basket in 30-second intervals.

This process slows down the brewing process and allows the grounds to saturate slowly in order to give your coffee better aroma and richer flavor.

Furthermore, it also features a pause and serve function so that there's no need for you to wait for the brewing cycle to complete in order for you to get your cup of coffee; a water level indicator so you know when the unit needs refilling; a non-stick warming plate and a cup storage tray for warm, ready to use cups.

With all these fantastic features wrapped up in one affordable coffee machine, it's no wonder why so many people rave about the Delonghi drip coffee maker DCF212T.

See Also : Zojirushi EC-BD15 Coffee Maker

What You Need to Know About Kitchen Appliances

When you, like me and most other people, back in the past, left the house we grew up in and moved out on our own, we certainly were surprised at how hard it was to decorate a kitchen when we had to start with nothing. When you grow up in a home with a full kitchen, you forget it was not always like that. Eventually, we all have to create our own kitchens and that means choosing kitchen appliances.

You have to stop and think before you go out and start buying appliances for your new kitchen. Do you need a toaster oven for your kitchen? You know you need a stove and a fridge, of course. That is just the beginning, though. There is more that you need. If you have not shopped for such appliances in awhile, you are in for a surprise. The average homeowner doesn't buy new kitchen appliances but every ten years or so. What is different about appliances that are sold now compared to what you had to choose from when you last shopped for them? The following information will help.

1. The Fridge Freezer

Today, refrigerators are in the form of fridge freezers in the United States. These kitchen appliances are great for storing lots of food. You don't have to spend a fortune to buy a fridge freezer because they can cost close to $500.

2. The Electric Stove

The only way you'll be able to cook food in your kitchen is if you have an electric stove. An electric stove is simple to operate. A gas stove is a better option if you want better temperature control when you cook.

3. Elegant Small Appliances

There are many amazing small appliances including an ice cream maker, sausage maker, juicer, a pasta maker, a food processor, a waffle maker and more.

4. Basic Small Appliances

Other kitchen appliances you need for your home include a coffee maker, a coffee bean grinder, an espresso machine, a water filter a garbage disposal, and a grill for your counter top. These are very handy to have when you are spending time in your kitchen. These are just some of the information you want to know about kitchen appliances before you start shopping. There are a lot of different kitchen appliances to consider. It is important to know what you want and need before you go shopping. List the kitchen appliances you need

Visit : Espresso machines

Try Space Saver Coffee Makers

Many people's mornings across the country would not be the same without their morning coffee. In fact, most people need several cups of coffee to make it through their day. However, not every kitchen is made with enough space for the average coffee makers. Small kitchens are definitely not conducive to the typical coffee machine. Further to this, it is unrealistic to think that buying coffee from a local shop every day instead of making it at home is something that is financially feasible for everyone. There are space saver coffee makers available. The next step is to decide which kind of space saver suits you and your style.

There are plenty of different styles on the market. There is of course the typical drip machine, but there are also different kinds of makers. Drip coffee makers are still one of the best ways to brew coffee. However, a key to a good drip coffee filter is that the filter is not disposable. Permanent coffee filters do not absorb the oils and flavors from the coffee. Permanent coffee filters can be nylon, gold, as well as other materials. In addition, the flavors from the filter are not transferred to the coffee. Permanent filters do need to be cleaned well, but this small amount of extra work is definitely worth it. However, there are always coffee presses and hand presses to brew your coffee with. Some of the world's coffee snobs insist that a press is the only way to get true coffee and the rest must be thought of as instant.

The newest space saver is what is called a pod-type. These brew coffee with hot water that blasts coffee through individual coffee pads. They produce coffee that is very close to the European house roast. Some people say these pod makers are the best way to make coffee at home while saving space. There are also individual espresso machines that can be used to save space as well. Espresso machines work similarly to the pod machines in that they blast hot water through a small amount of coffee. The coffee for espresso machines can be either ground fresh and put through a filter like system, but they can also come in pre-measured tins that look like small creamers. Espresso machines take some time to learn how to work them and they do create a little extra mess than the pod machine. Whether the space saver is a pod machine, espresso machine, drip, or press, it is much better than getting rid of your daily cup of coffee.

Friends Link : Espresso machines Cuisinart DCC-1100 Coffee maker BUNN NHBX-B Home Coffee Brewer

Pasquini Espresso Machines and Coffee Grinders Review

The Pasquini company is known for both its residential and commercial coffee equipment. One of the most well known Pasquini espresso machines is the Pasquini Livia 90. Though it is constructed to be durable and long-lasting like a commercial machine, it is remarkably suitable for use in a household kitchen.

One way in which the Pasquini Livia 90 espresso machine distinguishes itself as a commercial-grade machine is its NSF Sanitation Certification, which foodservice appliances are required to have. There are two types of Livia machines Pasquini has produced. One is an automatic version, which provides the user with the least amount of control over making their own beverage; the Livia will control the flow of liquid without any human effort. The semi-automatic model allows users to turn the beverage flow on and off. The Livia can brew either one or two cups of espresso at one time. It can also be left turned on all day without any problems, so if you have a small office or if you enjoy drinking coffee or espresso all day at home, you can always get a fresh cup in a flash. The Livia is also fast when you first turn it on. It will warm up within seven minutes of being turned on.

One notable drawback to the Livia is its price tag. Since it is a commercial-grade machine, it comes with a commercial-grade price; a Livia will set you back approximately $1700. There is another Pasquini model that is slightly cheaper. The Pasquini Livietta costs around $1000 and also features commercial-grade durability. Like the Livia, it boasts a fast warm-up time. The Livietta is compatible with ESE pods and coffee grounds alike. If you have a small kitchen or limited countertop space, you might want to consider the Livietta due to its very small size. It is only 12 inches tall and eight inches wide.

Coffee grinders also comprise Pasquini's product line. The Pasquini Moka "Chrome" is a grinder with a doser and built-in tamper. The Pasquini K2 is similar to the Moka "Chrome" but is doserless.

Visit : DeLonghi EC5 Espresso maker Espresso machines

Dieting - Shop Smart & Cook Slim

Sometimes I hear "I was doing very well, but that day when I was depressed, I opened the chocolate cupboard and ate everything in it."

I'm sure you've had a similar experience before where you gave in to temptation in whatever form it came in. But the question I always ask is, "why was that cupboard full of chocolates in the first place?"

What I've noticed is that many people think that weight loss is about will power: how much torture can I withstand before I crack. They think they're supposed to suffer in order to achieve success. But that's not true. The only difference between people who have weight problems and others who don't is that people who don't have a weight problem don't allow temptation in the first place.

So, I'll help you out on this one. All you have to do it exercise restriction once: at the supermarket. If you do your grocery shopping with the smart tips I will outline below, then you will have a lot less temptation to deal with at home, and it will make your journey to your ideal weight a lot easier.

Smart Shopping

Do not shop while hungry
Make a shopping list and stick to it. How hard can that be? You know what you should eat to lose weight, so but just that and nothing else
Shop the supermarket aisles only, and avoid the middle (more refined aisles). If you do that, your cart should have nothing of the very refined, sugary, salty stuff.
Read the ingredients labels of products and make sure you understand what's added to your food. Make sure to avoid products with lots of sugar, colouring, additives, flavour enhancers, or hydrogenated fat.
Do not use others as an excuse. Do not tell me you buy chocolates because your children want them because that means you are also putting their health at risk. If you want to get them chocolates as a treat, but them one chocolate each; do not fill the cupboard. If you are not the one who does the shopping in the family then voice your opinion. It's very easy to be the victim of somebody else's shopping decisions. If you want healthy food, ask for it.

Cook Slim

Now that you've bought the ingredients, what you make of your meal in the kitchen can determine whether that meal will add to your weight or enhance your health. It amazes me the number of people who still eat fried food at home.

Fried food is dangerous. The chemical structure of the food and the oil changes when you expose it to high temperatures, making it very harmful to health.

If you want your meals to be healthier, try the following:

DO

Steam
Bake
Grill
Stir fry
Poach

DO NOT

Deep fry
Boil
BBQ until it is burned

Although boiled vegetables are typical in weight loss diets, they have been proven not very healthy. Boiled vegetable leaches all the vitamins and minerals into the water, leaving the actual food with very little. Light steaming is better. And it's always best to add the remaining water into the meal, such as using it to make a sauce or soup.

Tags : Cuisinart DGB-600BC coffee maker Zojirushi EC-BD15 Coffee Maker DeLonghi EC5 Espresso maker

How to Make a Cup of Good Espresso Coffee

Espresso coffee is becoming one of the most popular types of beverage that people are drinking around the world. It is a blend of several different types of coffee beans from different countries. Many people believe that it translates as express because of the fact that in cafes it is traditionally brewed when a customer orders and is delivered straight to them. All over the world, the espresso coffee is synonymous with Italy and this is where the best coffee mixtures can be found and have been selected to celebrate the true flavor of the coffee.

Espresso, while apparently a simple drink, is in reality a complex product. Espresso or caffe espresso is a concentrated coffee brew brewed by forcing very hot, but not boiling, water under high pressure through coffee that has been ground to a consistency that is between extremely fine and powder. If you go to a cafe or espresso bar and ask for an espresso, what you will get is a shot-sized glass holding a small amount of very strong coffee.

Making Good Espresso

There are many requirements in making a good mug of espresso coffee. First, espresso uses a greater dose of coffee per water then drip coffee. To pull a shot of espresso, a metal filter-basket is filled with 7 to 10 grams of ground coffee for a single shot or 12 to 18 grams for a double shot. The temperature and time of consumption are important variables that must be observed to enjoy an ideal espresso, as it should be consumed within 2 minutes from when it is served. Freshly brewed coffee must be served or mixed into other coffee beverages immediately, or it will begin to degrade due to cooling and oxidation.

The end result should be a cup filled with two 1-1 ounce shots of espresso, topped with of crema. An espresso shot that is brewed in less than 25-seconds is under-extracted. It will appear watery, have little or no crema, and taste weak and bitter. Where on the other hand an espresso shot that is brewed in over 30 seconds is over-extracted.

Making the perfect cup of espresso coffee is a combination of both art and science. Traditionally machines can only be used to make coffee, but most modern espresso coffee machines can also be used to make espresso and cappuccino, as they have a separate spout for frothing milk. And with the consumption of espresso coffee expected to grow as consumption shifts from the coffee bar to the home and to the office, no doubt more and more people are getting coffee machines for themselves.

The reason for my interest is that when I am at home, I am able to make and drink espresso coffee with ease anytime I want. You too can try it, and savor the great pleasure of having a great cup of espresso coffee.

Recommend : Breville 800ESXL Espresso Machine

Benefits of Using a Manual Coffee Maker

Automatic coffee machines have been sweeping the coffee market by a storm. Most people would rather go for the convenience this type of brewer will give them for the sole reason that it is easier to use. Your only manual labor is to dump the coffee grounds in the basket and punch the corresponding buttons to get the brewer to start working. After that, the machine will do all the brewing work for you.

But despite the existence of these automatic machines, the manual ones are still popular on their own. In fact, the sales pitch tells us the people are still patronizing the use of more cumbersome gadgets such as these brewers. You would be surprised of the benefits brewing in this apparatus can give:

Produces much more flavourful coffee

According to enthusiasts, brewing in this type of machine is much more satisfactory to the palate. It produces a more flavourful brew. Most of the manual brewing devices do not use filters which is why all the essential oils are preserved. Compared to the automatic ones with integrated or disposable filters, the taste is a little bland to those who are used to brewing in manual operations.

However, nutritionists caution people in drinking too much manually brewed coffee because the essential oils can be bad for your health when taken in excess. It can increase cholesterol level. But since it is also a rich source of antioxidants, sipping moderate amount of java is still good for you.

Does not produce an acidic brew

The automatic ones use too much heat in brewing the java grounds. This is why acid usually develops. If you use the manual ones, the brewing time is only short so not much acid is formed. This is a good choice for those who like a flavourful coffee but cannot tolerate stomach acidity.

Easier to clean

Clean up is basically a cinch. Most of the parts are detachable and can be washed using a dishwasher. Manually washing it is also easy. Just rinse it in soapy water and dry it out.

It is cheaper

The automatic ones cost more than $50. Some can go as high as $300. Add that up to the expenses on your electricity bill since a heating device such as coffee maker can gobble up a lot on energy. In comparison, the manual gadgets are cheaper. Also, they do not require electricity in order to perform well.

Recommend : Cuisinart EM-100 Espresso Maker

Review of Illy Espresso Memberships

Even though illy espresso is produced in Italy, it may be easily purchased online through many different coffee-related and general merchandise retailers. While some people might find it more prudent to seek out discounted illy coffee from large Internet discount retailers or auction sites like ebay.com, there are some definite benefits to utilizing illy's website for your coffee purchases, particularly due to the special products and memberships not available from other merchants.

Illy sells several different types of coffee that are all for sale on their website, including ground coffee and espresso, whole bean coffee, illy espresso pods, and unique espresso capsules known as iperEspresso. These capsules contain 7 grams of ground espresso and are compatible with a FrancisFrancis espresso machine; there are a couple different models that can be purchased on illy's website. The allure of the iperEspresso capsules is that the perfect amount of grounds has already been measured out for your single serving of espresso, and due to its exclusive design, the grounds never touch the machine as the espresso is being brewed, allowing for your machine to stay in pristine condition.

A great way to save some money on illy coffee, particularly if you drink it regularly or purchase large amounts for an office setting, is by joining one of illy's two membership clubs. The coffee membership is a flexible option that allows you to set your own delivery schedule. Just specify how often you would like your coffee to be sent and in what roast and quantity (a two-can minimum is required for each shipment), and illy will do the rest for you. For each order of $75 or over, illy provides free shipping. When you enroll in the coffee membership club, you will receive a free coffee cup with illy's logo emblazoned on the side. It is important to make an informed decision before joining the illy coffee club and thoroughly examine how much coffee you consume on a monthly basis. The convenience of having two or more cans shipped to your each month is a viable option if you household drinks a large volume of coffee or if you are supplying coffee for an office environment, but if you do not drink a lot of coffee each month (or enjoy changing brands often), then the cost of buying large amounts of illy coffee on a regular basis may not be worth the membership benefits you reap.

If you drink illy coffee and have been considering purchasing either a Pasquini espresso machine or a Francis Francis espresso machine, an illy espresso membership has the opportunity to provide you with some significant savings. When you sign up for your introductory membership kit, you will receive one of three espresso machines (there are two FrancisFrancis machines and one Pasquini machine from which to choose), cappuccino cups, and a steaming pitcher, among other things. After you sign up for your introductory kit, you are obligated to purchase four cans of illy coffee for the next 12 months. After that point, you are not required to continue having illy delivered to your home if you do not wish. Because the introductory kits cost considerably less than the price of one of the featured espresso machines, you can save a great deal of money by using illy's website to enroll in this membership club; however, like the coffee membership club, you will need to determine if your coffee drinking habit necessitates the purchase of four cans of illy each month.

While large online retailers often boast low prices in order to sell merchandise, illy's website provides its loyal customers the opportunity to purchase one-of-a-kind products and membership clubs not found anywhere else.

Tags : Cuisinart DGB-600BC coffee maker Cuisinart DCC-1100 Coffee maker DeLonghi ESAM3300 Espresso machine

Pod Coffee Makers - A Machine With Great Benefits

In this era, our daily coffee experience is improved with the help of technology. Today, you can serve your morning beverage easily in less than a minute. The answer is by using pod coffee makers that offers smart solution to allow you enjoy your drink with only a few simple steps.

Just like its name, to use this machine you'll need pod as an instant coffee package. Pod is coffee grounds that have been prepackaged in their own filter, similar to already well-known tea bags. Using pod is very practical since you don't have to grind your own beans therefore you don't have to encounter with much fuss.

By only inserting the pod and adding water, your drink will be ready in an instant. If you like tasting different aromas of caffeine drink, you will find extra benefits by using pod. With various flavors of pod are available in the market, you can try different kind of coffee in an easy way. Of course it will also reduce your expenses rather than by buying from a cafe.

You can find many varieties of pod coffee makers from various brands in the market. Senseo is one brand that offers its individual pod. But, you also can buy pods made by third party manufacturers as long as they're compatible with your machine. There are also some manufacturers that offer many options of flavors and allow you to create your own pod.

Although this machine requires simple maintenance, it is highly recommended to clean this machine once in every three months. This can eliminate boiler mineral build up that will affect its performance. By doing it regularly you can always enjoy your daily tasty drinks without any trouble. For more comprehensive maintenance instruction, you can ask to the manufacturer since it will differ for each brand.

Thanks To : Cuisinart DCC-1200 coffee maker BUNN NHBX-B Home Coffee Brewer Cuisinart DGB-600BC coffee maker