Simple Espresso Coffee » Espresso Makers

Three Tips for Choosing Your New Espresso Maker

JW — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 06:56:11 +0000

Many people love the rich and indulgent taste of a hot espresso. These concentrated coffee beverages provide a full flavor taste and an instant pick-me-up. However, purchasing the drink everyday from a coffee shop will eventually add up to big bucks, leaving a person wondering if there is a more cost effective option. These days, there are plenty of choices for home espresso makers, which will provide the same, if not better, taste that a cup purchased at a chain store. Purchasing one of these machines can be a bit of an expense, so it is important to carefully weight your options before choosing the right one. Since there are plenty of options, brands, and models from which to choose, you may want to consider a few tips on how to choose the right machine for your situation. 1. Start by deciding how many different beverages you like to drink. If you are strictly interested in straight and bold espresso, then a standard machine may be just right for you. If you prefer to mix up your options, then you may want to choose a multifunctional machine that will provide you everything from straight shots of espresso to cappuccino to regular coffee. 2. Look for features that you need, not just features that look fun. If you are not careful, you could spend much more money than needed on an espresso maker. While some people may need certain features to accommodate their choice of beverage, others may not. Carefully consider what features would be best for you and then choose the machine that can accommodate your needs. Do not spend your money on extras, or you could end up defeating the purpose of saving money with your home machine. 3. These machines can vary greatly in size. Before you choose your new espresso maker, think about where you will be placing it in your kitchen. You may even want to measure the counter area as well as the available height. Otherwise, you could end up with a shiny new machine that will not fit in your kitchen. When you get ready to choose your new machine, you are most likely buying it for two reasons. You may be wanting it for convenience so that you can have espresso any time you like. You are also most likely looking to save money over buying the beverage from a shop. By following these three tips, you will easily be able to narrow your choices to just the right espresso maker for your home.

What Kind of Espresso Do You Enjoy? Choose the Right Espresso Makers for Your Taste

JW — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 06:53:12 +0000

If you are tired of trekking to the coffee shop every single time you decide that you want to enjoy a cappuccino, a latte, or an espresso, then you may want to consider purchasing your very own home espresso maker. In addition to being able to bypass the hassle, you will be saving money if you visit the coffee shop often. There are plenty of home machines to choose from, and one of the things you will have to decide is just what beverages you want to be able to make. Some espresso makers are specific to making only the one drink, however, other machines can make a variety of beverages, making them more versatile but also more costly. Before you spend any money, think of the drinks you could make with various machines, and decide which ones you want to be able to make. This way, you will be able to buy a machine that suits your needs without going overboard with features and cost. For some people, they just want to be able to enjoy a straight shot of the strong, rich espresso. If this is your case, then you can choose a machine that only serves one purpose. If you will only be brewing one type of beverage, there is no sense in spending the extra money on an espresso machine with lots of bells and whistles. If you like to vary your beverages and you enjoy drinks that use milk, like lattes and cappuccinos, then you will need to choose a machine that includes two boilers. A single boiler machine is much lower priced, but it will not be able to create the steam needed to make a good cup of your favorite milk based beverage. Some people just want to enjoy a little regular coffee now and then. If you would like this option, you will need to choose an espresso maker that will let you control the portions between water and coffee. Obviously, your standard coffee needs to be diluted more than espresso and without this control; you will not be able to brew coffee. In addition, some machines even offer a bypass controller in case you want to be able to brew both caffeinated coffee and decaf. There are plenty of options when you get ready to choose a new espresso maker. However, in order to avoid spending more money than you need, make sure you pick a machine that will create the beverages that you like.

The Best of the Best ????? Delonghi Espresso Makers

JW — Sun, 17 Jan 2010 06:51:39 +0000

Delonghi is a name that is known for quality and innovation. Delonghi was founded in 1955 to make heating elements and long been known for its kitchen appliances. Delonghi espresso makers are one of their newest kitchen appliances, following on the heels of coffee makers, percolators and automatic drip coffee makers. Delonghi is most famously known in the world of espresso makers for its Super Automatic Delonghi Magnifica espresso maker. The Delonghi Magnifica is a line of espresso machines that have the features most homeowners want in a coffee machine. Delonghi espresso makers include conical burr grinders, 15 bar pumps, Thermo Block boilers and direct to brew systems that make them among the best of the best. These top of the line features combine with its good looks, included frothing wand and a system that reheats instantly to allow for almost no downtime between espresso brews. With all of these features it is surprisingly affordable. The Delonghi espresso maker is truly one of the best of the best in home espresso makers. The Magnifico is only one of their top line models. Other models include digital systems that allow users to program every aspect of the brew, including water temperature and brew size and time. These automatic makers allow for complete customization of the espresso. Delonghi also has a patented Single Touch Cappuccino and Latte System which allow the espresso experience to be truly automated, right down to the frothed and steamed milk. No automatic espresso experience would be complete without automatic cleanup. Automatic cleanup systems are an integral part of the Delonghi espresso lineups. In addition to being the best of the best in terms of design, Delonghi espresso makers are also among the easiest to use. As with all automatic espresso makers, reading the instructions is paramount to being able to use the machine. Automatic espresso makers, particularly digital ones with programmable keys, are typically only slightly difficult on the initial setup. After that, it is simply choosing the button that has the settings desired and waiting for the machine to produce results. Steeped in History Europeans have been relying on Delonghiâ????s commitment to quality for decades. Homes in the United States have only been treated to their espresso lines since the start of the 21st century. Since coming to the U. S. , Delonghi has fast become a leader in the espresso machine market for both home and commercial use. In addition to designing makers for espresso, they have top quality drip coffee makers, percolators, coffee urns and grinders for both commercial and home use. The Delonghi espresso maker is the perfect choice for individuals wanting both high quality espresso and a stylish appliance for their kitchen. With its reputation for quality, online reviews and several designs to choose from, itâ????s easy to see why Delonghi is considered the best of the best by many.

At ??? The Espresso Maker

JW — Sat, 09 Jan 2010 06:54:04 +0000

Presso â???? The Espresso Maker Many people love drinking the espresso. For about a century now, this drink remained an all time favorite by many people. In order to make espresso, you will need water (approximately 90Â°) and pressure. You need to make sure that the water is not boiling or else the coffee will become bitter. Such requirements were not fulfilled by the ordinary coffee makers. The designer of the Presso espresso machine though that hot water from a kettle can be used by simply adding pressure through mechanical leverage. Prototypes were made and soon a solution was created which delivered the best espresso in town. Today, a lot of people are used to instant coffee but with Presso, you will need to take part in the process of making an espresso. The materials used to create the Presso espresso machine are ecologically sound and can even be recycled. This manually operated espresso maker is an award winning piece and is now known worldwide. How to Make Coffee by Using Presso When making your espresso, you will need freshwater. Make sure that the water want not re-boiled. The coffee grounds you use should be the ones suitable for Presso and other espresso machines. You need to get just the right size of coffee grounds â???? not too large and not too fine. Overfill the cylinder of the Presso with hot water to ensure maximum crema. This is one way to add pressure. Raise the Pressoâ????s arms and squeeze it down firmly. When the espresso is out, stop and catch the rest in a cup then discard it. Using the spoon tamp, tamp the coffee grounds firmly. When the Presso is already filled with not water, you can now raise the handles so that the water will infuse into the grinds. Leave it for 15-25 seconds. Push handles downwards on one firm motion and hold. You need to wait until the water is extracted. If all the moisture is not extracted, you can repeat the procedure again. Cleaning It Remember that itâ????s not advisable to put the Presso inside a dishwasher. You can use soapy water when washing but do this occasionally. Instead, just rinse out the coffee grounds in the bin and also clean the portafilter. The Pressoâ????s milk frother can be washed using a dishwasher but the rest should be cleaned manually. When you purchase the Presso, it also comes with a manual. Just follow the instructions there carefully when removing the round rubber and the plunger. Make sure that the parts are completely clean and dry before reassembling. Where to Buy The Presso can be purchased anywhere in the world whether youâ????re in Canada, USA, UK, New Zealand, Denmark, Germany, Australia, Korea, Poland, etc. Additional Info This espresso machine was designed by P Hunt. The body is made from pressure cast aluminum and it is hand polished. Stainless steel bearing components and a tough, heat-proof, and transparent plastic makes up the reservoir where boiling water is placed. The so called portafilter is a chrome plated, commercial style, and domestic size unit. The 1-way valve and the shower are made from silicone that is food grade. Method Refinement By adjusting the main components â???? grind, dose, and tamp, the flavor, body, and consistency of the espresso is affected. The accepted optimum extraction is 25 seconds. With the use of Presso, you will be able to achieve the perfect time to prepare the perfect espresso. Here are some things to ponder: 1. The extraction time will be affected by the grind that is used. Fine grind or a coarse grind will tend to extend or reduce extraction time. 2. The filter basket of the Presso should not be overfilled or under-filled because it can also affect the extraction time and crema. 3. If there is insufficient or over pressure on the Tamp, it will also affect the puck penetration by water at adequate pressure. Now, you can prepare espresso at home. The innovative and simple design of the Presso as well as its affordability makes it an excellent choice for homemakers who love espresso. Sufficient pressure can be provided by the Presso and so it is the ideal espresso machine for you. Since the machine also comes with a milk frother, you can turn your espresso into a cappuccino or even a latte. Because of the materials used in the design of the espresso maker, the machine is environment friendly. It does not consume too much energy unlike conventional coffee makers out there. Energy is used only when water is being boiled in the kettle but after that, you only need human force to press the machineâ????s arms. You can get this amazing espresso machine for about $150 and that is already a good deal. The best way to purchase the Presso is online and if you live in the places mentioned earlier, there are specific websites that you can visit to make the purchase. Presso is indeed environment friendly, functional, and beautiful. In seconds, you can already prepare a good tasting espresso that you can boast to your friends. Just get hot water and after that, you can now have the greatest espresso shot. Fresh roasted coffee beans are the way to go. When purchasing them, tell the seller to grind it for use in an espresso machine. Make sure that you keep the coffee beans in a vacuum container. P Hunt was able to come up with a revolutionary espresso maker and somehow it has hit the market like storm. Many people want to buy it. It has received several awards already and this is sufficient proof that the machine really works. Having an espresso shot everyday is just within your reach. You donâ????t need to buy an espresso because now you can prepare it in your own home in seconds! So what are you waiting for? Why donâ????t you get a sneak peak of this incredible espresso machine online? You will surely love it and any homemaker will want to own one instead of the conventional coffee makers.

Is a Fully Automatic Espresso Maker the Best Option For Your Business?

JW — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 02:14:33 +0000

As a small business owner you have probably come to realize one important fact about your employees, many of them just can’t function properly without their morning cup of caffeine! You’ve probably also realized that you are dealing with a Starbucks generation of coffee drinkers. They don’t want the standard cup of joe with the standard coffee beans made from the good ole fashion coffee pot. No, Generation Y is different, we like gourmet coffee, fancy lattes and shots of espresso made from finely ground coffee beans! Being the great boss that you are, you’ve decided to invest in an espresso machine for your small business! You may not understand the big fuss behind espresso, lattes, and cappuccinos — so you are likely confused over all the various options of machines available. One of the first things you will need to decide on is whether you want an automatic espresso maker or a manual espresso maker. Typically when a person is going to purchase an espresso machine, they are looking for one to buy for their home – but because you are looking for an espresso maker for the office, the best option for you is a fully automatic espresso maker. Automatic espresso makers take all the guess work out of the process of brewing a shot. What this means is that you won’t have to deal with teaching employees how to use it, nor will you have to worry about someone damaging it because they couldn’t figure out where to put the coffee grinds! Fully automatic machines are perfect for commercial use because they are able to produce multiple cups in a relatively quick amount of time. This will allow more productivity for your employees, which satisfies you; and your employees are satisfied because they’ll have their shot of caffeine to start their day!

The New Name in Espresso Makers: Saeco Espresso

JW — Thu, 07 Jan 2010 16:07:28 +0000

The best espresso doesn’t necessarily come from a coffee shop, with a Saeco espresso maker, the best espresso can come straight from the kitchen. No more lines and spending money every day, a Saeco espresso machine saves both time and money while providing a top of the line espresso. The Saeco line of espresso machines is available in both fully automatic versions and in manual versions. They are stylish and sleek enough to complement any kitchen. The Saeco line is so simple to use that adding water and coffee beans is paramount to producing a piping hot espresso or cappuccino. The automated mechanisms of the machine will grind the beans, dose the ground coffee and even tamp it, and then the water will be released to make the espresso. Once finished, the automatic Saeco will also dump the empty puck into the waste holding tank. Features The fully automatic Saeco features are what make it worth purchasing. The top of the machine is a cup warmer to keep the demi cups ready and prepared for serving. The conical burr grinder is adjustable to grind the beans to the individuals desired grind. The doser is adjustable so that users can adjust how strong or weak they want their espresso to be made. Saeco has distinct advantages over other machines including advanced display panels that feature either a large color touch screen with touch sensitive technology that allow users to touch their options or an LCD display screen with a click wheel for easy programming. Touch2Cappuccino is Saeco’s trademarked feature that allows two cappuccinos to be prepared with the touch of one button. Now, instead of waiting on the steam to reheat to make that second cappuccino, one touch can deliver two piping hot cappuccinos with ease. The Saeco Brewing System allows for a wide variety of coffee based drinks to be made with the touch of a button or the twist of a dial. From espressos and cappuccinos to lattes and regular drip coffees, the Saeco line of espresso makers offers something for everyone. The Saeco line of espresso makers have large water reservoirs that hold up to 82 ounces of water, depending on model, enough to make quite a few cappuccinos and espressos before needing refilled. The bean hopper holds up to 12 ounces of beans, depending on model and grinds them using a conical burr grinder, the preferred grinder to prevent a burned taste from being infused into the coffee. Saeco has made it possible for homeowners to enjoy the exquisite taste of freshly brewed espressos and cappuccinos from their homes without spending a fortune. Saeco espresso makers are available in a variety of models, each offering something more and all available on the Internet at affordable prices with direct to the door shipping, all that is missing is water and coffee beans.

Review of High End Espresso Makers – Diva by Buggati, Saeco Primea Ring, and Delonghi Magnifica

JW — Fri, 01 Jan 2010 16:11:42 +0000

Having a shot of espresso or a cup of fresh brewed coffee has become a tradition for many Americans. If you’re anything like me – it is sometimes the best part of the day! Espresso makers, be it for commercial or private users, have become a common small kitchen appliance, especially those that really value the quality of taste. Although it is one of the smallest appliances in your kitchen, a high quality espresso maker is still a big investment. Let’s examine the most popular models of high end espresso machines.

The Top 3 Espresso Makers over $1000: Diva by Buggati, Saeco Primea Ring, and Delonghi Magnifica

The Saeco Prima Ring Super Automatic Espresso Maker

The Saeco Primea Ring is a super automatic espresso machine with a stainless steel boiler and fifteen bar pump pressure. There is a 68 ounce removable water tank, click wheel interface rapid steam SBS technology. From a tech standpoint – the Saeco Primea has everything you could look for! It tops it all off with a ceramic coffee bean grinder, the Saeco Aqua Prima water filter and Touch2Cappuccino system that can prepare 2 cups simultaneously.

Priced at an average of $1900 is well worth the money if that is your price range. The ceramic grinder allows for a consistent grind every time, which is paramount to a great tasting cup of espresso, coffee or even lattes and cappuccinos. The Rapid Steam technology lets the machine brew your espresso and then froth or steam with no waiting.

Consumers love the machine, giving it a perfect rating. The fact that it is super automatic is icing on the cake for many. It alerts you to when it needs to be cleaned, when to add, and has personalized settings for your drinks. Let’s say you like your coffee a bit stronger than your wife – your cup will be brewed to your liking and vice versa. There is a slight learning curve, but all in all – it’s pretty easy to use. The only negative is it’s size

The Bugatti Diva

The Diva Espresso Machine by Bugatti is made of die cast aluminium with a chrome finish. The 15 bar pump pressure is great for fast startup and quick extraction. As to be expected with its name, the Diva is probably the most stylish and interestingly designed espresso maker on the market with its conical shape and retro-esque appeal. Available in chrome, black and red – it will definitely be a talking point in your kitchen.

As interesting as it may look – for an average price of $1299, is it worth the money? The Bugatti Diva can take both grinds and pods, this is a perfect mix for those who want to enjoy the process of making a great cup of espresso from scratch, coupled with the ability to make a quick cup if necessary. There’s a steam wand for frothing and hot water for tea as well. It is a two short machine with a removable water tank.

The Bugatti Diva definitely delivers on its promises, but the angular design of the machine itself is not for every household. It is a five-star appliance, but at this price point you can find an equally great machine that is more likely to match the decor of your kitchen. Unless you are a true diva of course, if so – this is the perfect option for you!

The Delonghi Magnifica ESAM3500.N

Are you looking for a super automatic, 1150 watt, dual espresso maker/coffee machine with a programmable menu, instant reheat function, and conical burr grinder priced under $1500? If so, the DeLonghi ESAM3500 Magnifica has your name written all over it! You’ll get a stainless steel design with 15 bar pump pressure and a removable grinder. There’s a steam wand for frothing but isn’t espresso pod adaptable. All parts are completely dishwasher safe allowing for easy clean up, and it also has variable coffee strength settings.

Generally speaking – you should be pleased with the DeLonghi espresso maker. It does a great job of taking the guess work out of how to make a great shot. As with most super automatic machines, it instructs on when to add your beans, descale, add water, etc. The only negative are consumer reports of broken infusers and O-rings. The DeLonghi customer service department is very friendly – but shipping your machine away to get fixed can still be a pain.

Best Espresso Maker – Automatic Espresso Maker, Pump Driven Or Steam Driven?

JW — Fri, 01 Jan 2010 16:11:00 +0000

If you’re spending hundreds of dollars every month on espresso, gourmet coffee and cappuccino then it may be high time that you invest in an espresso machine for your home! With the average cup costing roughly five dollars for a grande made by your favorite barista, just think of how much money you would save by making your own cup!

With the increase in popularity of gourmet coffee houses and Starbucks, manufacturers have begun making espresso machines for the home. Not only do these machines look great, but they are also capable of making espresso that is equally good if not even better than your favorite coffee shop!

There are several different types of espresso machines, I will go over them in detail for you:

Automatic espresso maker: If you want all the espresso but without all the fuss, then an automatic machine is for you. You don’t have to bother with grinding your beans or tamping them down because it does the work for you. Solis, Gaggia and Saeco are some of the top brands, they are usually easy to clean and have larger water tanks as well.These are really top of the line, so be prepared to spend money on them. If you’re looking for a budget model, then the automatic espresso maker is not the one for you.

Steam Driven Espresso Makers: Steam driven machines are on the cheaper end of the spectrum, and believe me – it’s for a reason. The general consensus on this style of home espresso maker is that they aren’t really powerful enough to make a decent shot of espresso. Most consumers report a bitter, burned taste. If you are an espresso enthusiast, then you know that a bitter tasting shot is a huge no-no.

Piston Driven Makers: If you can get you can get your hands on an original piston driven espresso machine, hold on to it! The original espresso maker invented by Gaggia in the late 1930’s was driven by a piston. They are considered antiques today, and while they are not used often -they make the best foamy tops.

Pump Driven Espresso Makers: The pump driven maker is like the modern day relative of the piston driven models. If you really enjoy the process of making espresso at home, from the grinding of the beans to the tamping down – then pump driven models are best for you. They are more powerful than steam driven machines and hit pressure up to five times greater than their steam counter parts.

Rev Up the Morning with an Espresso Maker

JW — Sat, 26 Dec 2009 16:10:39 +0000

Getting out the door and to the nearest coffee shop for that morning shot of espresso is the first thing on the mind on many people. They just aren’t functioning well until they get their daily dose of smooth, strong espresso blended into the perfect latte.

Now, these same people can slow down and enjoy that latte or espresso without even getting dressed first. Purchasing an espresso maker for the home makes it possible to pull that espresso shot before getting dressed.

Some of the top names in espresso makers have designed machines for use in homes. They are made with the same care and construction as the full sized machines without being as large or costly as commercial machines.

Espresso makers can be purchased to replace an existing coffee maker or to be used in addition to a coffee maker. The technology that is available today has made it possible for designers to incorporate coffee makers alongside the espresso makers so that only one appliance has to be purchased.

Home espresso machines are available that are fully automatic with little to no learning curve needed. They can be purchased with or without bean grinders that grind and tamp the beans, or, the new owner can learn to be a true barista and pull the perfect shot without the aid of technology.

Homeowner’s don’t have to worry about water quality or bean freshness with the more advanced machines made by the professional designers. Espresso makers can be outfitted with water filtration systems to assure that the final delivered product is as primo as possible.

Bean storage and grinding are optional accessories that can make the process easier. A good espresso machine stores the beans in an airtight storage area, only dispensing the amount needed. Quality machines have a separate doser for using an alternate bean when desired without having to empty the storage hopper.

Depending on the manufacturer and the model of the espresso maker, home espresso machines may have demi cup storage that also warms the cups to keep the espresso warm as it is served.

Top of the line models are fully automatic and require very little cleaning or maintenance, it is all built in. Newer models are digital and can be set to various strengths with the push of a button.

Home users can choose from a wide variety of espresso makers to start their day off with that perfect jolt. Before making in investment in an espresso maker, home users should read up on the newest models and what is available. If possible, find a manufacturer with a good warranty and a trial period, that way, if the machine doesn’t live up to expectations it can be returned without any hassles or issues.

Espresso makers aren’t just for making espresso, their versatility makes them the perfect companion to or replacement for the typical coffee maker. Check out the Internet today and see what espresso makers have to offer.

Bialetti Moka Express 12-Cup Stovetop Espresso Maker

JW — Sat, 26 Dec 2009 16:09:53 +0000

Stovetop brewer makes 12 2-ounce cups of espresso in just 4 to 5 minutes
Made of durable polished aluminum in a unique octagon shape
Flip-up top and side-pour spout provide added convenience
Wash by hand with warm soapy water and rinse clean; made in Italy
Measures 5-1/2 by 10 inches

Product Description
Aluminum, stovetop espresso maker produces 12 cups of rich, authentic Italian espresso in just 4-5 minutes.

Check out Bialetti Moka Express 12-Cup Stovetop Espresso Maker with Amazon at special $54.99 USD.