making coffee - which type of machine to choose?

Posted: Dec 17, 2010 |Comments: 0 |

Some of us must have coffee first thing in the morning. The sort of brands that make decent machines are Delonghi, Dualit, Kenwood, Russell Hobbs and Morphy Richards amongst many others.

For real coffee lovers - instant coffee is a sin, what you need are freshly ground beans and a good quality coffee maker capable of producing exceptionally fine beverages that not only taste exquisite but will fill the kitchen with a distinctly rich aroma.

Coffee machines and makers vary considerably in complexity from the very basic "plunger" style through to steaming, whistling, frothing types that sound like a Victorian invention when in operation. One word of warning if you prefer the simple plunger style, take care to ensure the gauze on the plunger does not get kinked of damaged or next time to make coffee you may end up putting yoru shirt in the washing machine! Several times I have put too much pressure on a slight damaged plunger only to be sprayed in hot coffee as it squirts from under the gauze and shoots out he top.

Many types of Coffee Machines are now on the market that give good quality results at home, that were once only available with café bought coffee. Which one you choose will depend on the type of coffee that you like, how often and for how many people you are likely to be making it. Capacity is usually measured in cupfuls, although exactly how big a cupful is seems to vary considerably!

  • Percolator - This is an all-in-one jug machine. They are usually electric, although hob versions are available.
  • Filter Machine - Usually consists of a water tank, filter area for the ground coffee and collection jug for the coffee.
  • Espresso Machine - Similar to the above except that water is heated and forced through the coffee grounds very quickly giving that unmistakable café flavour.
  • Espresso/Cappuccino Combination - The addition of a separate steam spout allows milk to be frothed before being added to espresso giving cappuccino coffee.
  • "Pod" System - Similar to an espresso machine except using branded pre-measured coffee "pods" giving consistent quality every time.

There are a number of factors to consider when buying coffee makers. Functionality, consumables, size, cost and performance are key points to evaluate, whilst in general terms it is advisable to steer clear of the very cheapest products because these tend to offer relatively little advantage over instant coffee in respect to taste or ease of use. 

In regard to the wealth of functionality found in many of today's coffee makers, you need to consider whether you want a standard coffee only machine or one that can serve espressos and cappuccinos as well. Products such as the Delonghi EC410 provide all three and this machine in particular features a handy pump dispenser that serves authentic espressos.

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