Stove Top Coffee Makers - Which Size Espresso Maker is Best For You?

The stove top coffee maker, also known as the "macchinetta" is one of the best ways to make espresso coffee at home. It applies pressure by means of heat and forces the water through finely ground coffee powder into a serving chamber.

The sizes of stove top coffee makers depend on its capacity and they range from 1 cup to 12 cups. Different people like different sizes of coffee maker. If you are a frequent traveler a one or three cup coffee maker is a very good option as you can carry it along easily.

Since, the stove top espresso maker is portable you can use it anywhere you like. Just supposing, you are out on a camp, then the coffee maker with less capacity is of great use. Imagine enjoying the aromatic brew of your favorite coffee in the midst of a forest.

Apart from other sizes available, the 12 cup stove top cafe maker can be very useful to those who have more frequent visitors at their place. The 12 cups coffee maker has the capacity to prepare espresso coffee faster than other rival products. It can also be very useful in small offices of 10 to 12 staff to prepare the aromatic espresso coffee for everyone.

Usually, the espresso cup can hold up to 4 ounces but it is a custom to fill the cup partly to get that perfect flavor. By tradition, a single cup of espresso coffee served is about 1.5 ounces. The 6 cups stovetop espresso makers can make about 9 ounces of that delectable liquid.

However, you cannot enjoy the actual taste of espresso coffee if you do not know the actual process of making one. Hence, to enjoy your coffee you have to know the best way to make the finest espresso from home or office. Below you can find the best way to make coffee using a stovetop coffee maker.

Take off the top and bottom chambers of your stove top coffee pot. Remove the coffee basket below and fill the bottom chamber with water till the safety valve which is noticeable from the outside and inside of the lower chamber. Then replace the coffee basket inside the lower chamber and fill with fine grind coffee. Firmly fix both the chambers.

Place the stovetop coffee maker on the stove at a medium flame. Make sure that the flame does not shoot past the bottom of the coffee pot. Lastly, after a period of 4 to 5 minutes check if the upper chamber is filled. Once the upper chamber is filled, immediately remove the coffee maker from the flames and serve hot.

Deciding on the size of a stove top coffee maker will depend upon your needs and your love for a good cup of coffee. If you are a loner or adventurous or frequent traveler then smaller sizes might be ideal for you. If you have a small office and like to serve espresso coffee to your staff or to your visitors, then coffee makers with bigger capacity can come very handy.

How to Choose an Office Espresso Machine

Coffee is as essential to an office as are desks or computers. The coffee that is provided in the workplace helps employees to be alert and perform their jobs at a high level. The caffeine contained in coffee provides a burst of energy to keep workers sharp and alert. Espresso is no different in its beneficial effects, and as a result, many companies are choosing to place an office espresso machine in their offices.

An office espresso machine has all of the same components of your standard home espresso machine. The only difference is that an espresso office machine is specifically designed to produce larger amounts of espresso at a faster rate. Choosing the right espresso machine for the office will largely depend on the number of workers it will be serving. This number will determine how many cups you will need the espresso maker to produce.

One feature you will want to look for in an espresso machine for the office is an overall ease of use. Several different people will probably be using the machine so you want to be sure that it is not too difficult to operate. It should also be fairly easily cleaned, as some espresso machines can be quite difficult to clean.

I would highly recommend purchasing a fully automatic office espresso machine, which as the name indicates is automatic and can produce espresso on its own without any human effort. If you have a larger office, a fully automatic office espresso machine is probably your best option.

There are a number of great places to find an office espresso machine, both online and offline. Many office supply stores carry espresso machines designed specifically for an office setting. However, if you want to get a truly great deal on an espresso machine, shopping on the internet will find you the best bargains. eBay in particular has an extensive selection of espresso office machines, both new and used, and at unbeatable low prices.

An Explanation On How To Use An Espresso Machine

Let's assume that your machine already has water in it in this article we will explain how to use an espresso machine in order to make the best drink you could possibly want.

So it's got the water in now you turn the machine on and then wait for the heater light to indicate that the water has been heated to the ideal temperature, which is just below boiling point.

Now you place the ground coffee into the basket and tamp it down. The best coffee to use is one that has been freshly ground as after grinding the volatile oils which were previously protected by the bean are exposed to the air which then oxidize and the coffee becomes stale. Unfortunately this occurs immediately after the coffee has been ground and so it is important that you tamp and extract the espresso as quickly as possible. Whilst you are grinding the coffee beans preheat and warm the group head by turning on the pump for several seconds. Then remove the portafilter and dump out the espresso and then wipe the basket dry with a clean towel. When wiping the basket you are preventing water from finding a path of least resistance and this will help to ensure an even extraction of the espresso.

You now install the portafilter in to the machine by twisting and then place a small cup beneath its spout. Now turn the valve on your machine to the espresso position and this will engage the micro switch, which starts the pump, which in turn pressurizes the heating chamber and hot water to a pressure of 15 atmospheres (220 psi). This pressure forces the hot water through the ground coffee and out of the spout. A good espresso machine will take about 25 seconds to produce a 1.5 ounces of espresso.

Then all you need to do is put the switch back into the middle position and you can now steam and froth some milk for making a latte. To do this you need to place a container with some cold milk under the steam wand so that is submerged. You then turn the valve to the steam position, this will energize the resistive heater, which quickly boils the water in the heating vessel and opens the valve that starts the flow of steam to the nozzle. You will notice that the pump runs intermittently in order to keep the heating vessel supplied with water and the steam will quickly heat up the milk. If you want froth then you need to hold the steam nozzle near to the surface of the milk.

With the instructions shown above on how to use an espresso machine you should be making espresso's, cappuccino's and latte's just like the ones you can buy at your local coffee shop.

Why Choose A Saeco Italia Espresso Maker?

Today the Saeco Italia espresso maker is now considered to be one of the best espresso machines that you could possibly want to purchase. Although they are expensive in comparison to many of the more well known brands that are so readily available, they really are value for money.

Certainly Saeco espresso coffee machines have now become one of the favorite espresso machines of the coffee connoisseurs who want value for money. Not only do they have robust internal brewing components which comes from the fine craftsmanship that is used to make them, but the rapid steam cappuccino technology they use (also found as standard in most super automatic espresso makers) mean that they make not just delicious espressos, but lattes and cappuccinos as well at all times.

Saeco Italia Espresso Maker Benefits

The biggest benefit of buying one of these espresso machines is that it allows you to purchase a super-automatic espresso maker without actually having to break the bank. The Saeco Italia espresso maker comes with a cup warming metal top, conical burr grinder as well as programmable coffee push buttons. Many of these features can also be found on some of the best and more expensive super-automatic espresso machines on the market today. It also comes with adjustable strength settings so you can make your espresso as strong or as light as you want. But not only does it have all these features, it has a removable internal brewing system which makes it simple to clean.

With this machine all you need to do is press a button and it will automatically grind the coffee beans and then provide you with a freshly brewed, aromatic rich cup of espresso in a matter of minutes. It allows you to push a button and this will then dispense a preprogrammed amount of coffee into your cup.

So when looking for an espresso machine that won't break the bank but will provide you with everything that the best super-automatic machines has to offer you may well want to consider the Saeco Italia espresso maker as your next purchase.

The Bean to Cup Coffee Machine

With a bean to cup coffee machine, you can enjoy fresh ground, perfectly brewed coffee whenever you want it. Whether you own your own business and want to offer something special to your customers or just want a luxury item for your home, this is the best way to get professional quality coffee on demand. 
 
All you have to do to make this type of coffee maker work is purchase the coffee beans of your choice and pour them into the appropriate holder on the machine. Setting the controls is usually done through push button operations that are fast and simple. A short time later, your beans will be ground and your coffee perfectly brewed and waiting for you or your customers. 
 
The biggest concern most people have when purchasing professional coffee equipment is the size. Many of the units are quite large, which can be a good or bad thing depending on the amount of space you have to devote to this item. 
 
If you do have some space to spare, consider getting a unit that includes space to stack cups, creamer, and other commonly needed condiments when making a cup of coffee. This will keep everything in one spot so it is easier and much quicker to grab a cup on the go. 
 
If you don't have so much space or want to work it into a crowded room with other equipment, consider one of the more compact models designed for saving space. They will not give as much room for cups and other condiments, but they will deliver perfectly ground and brewed coffee each and every time. 
 
You can expect a coffee maker of this type to brew at least 100 cups a day. Many larger units can easily double or triple this figure. This is not saying you will have to make this much coffee every day, but it shows what a professional strength machine is capable of doing. 
 
If you own your own business and want to offer coffee to your clients or have it always hot and ready to pour for whenever a client may enter, then a larger unit that brews hundreds of cups a day may be what you need. 
 
For home use or in a lighter use setting, you may get by with a smaller unit that is only capable of brewing 100 or so cups a day. It is important to assess how much coffee you may need and how much you could need in the future before you start looking around. This will prevent you from purchasing a machine that is more than you really need. 
 
Prices for this type of machine will understandably run you higher than a small, more basic coffee machine. The extra price comes from the extra process of breaking down the beans into ground form that can be used automatically for fresh brewed coffee. 
 
Even with the extra expense, some units can now be found at rather affordable prices for businesses or homeowners who want a little more luxury in their surroundings. The best way to find a bean to cup coffee machine that meets your needs is to shop online to see what this limited market is now offering. 

The Rancilio Silvia Espresso Machine Can Help You Make Great Coffee

There are many people who cannot survive the day without at least one cup of coffee. It is tasty, makes you more alert and gives you a veritable spring in your step. Some people are happy with instant coffee, others can enjoy a mug of filter coffee, but more and more people are seeking the stronger and more aromatic flavor of homemade espresso. The most popular home espresso machine in the mid-range bracket ($300-$800) is the Rancilio Silvia espresso machine, which is the best selling machine over $300.

This is a smart looking stainless steel machine which weighs around 30 pounds and is fairly compact in size, meaning it should fit on most countertops without any space issues. It operates with either pre-ground coffee bought from the store or your local coffee shop, or you can grind the beans at home for the freshest espresso possible.

Many people do not know that coffee actually starts to go stale after it has been ground, which is why it should be stored in an airtight container. If not stored in a sealed container it will be stale within 1-2 hours, but even when sealed the coffee starts to slowly deteriorate. For the freshest coffee, you really do have to grind your own beans.

The Rancilio Silvia espresso machine is very straightforward to set up and has a clear and useful instruction manual provided. Once you have filled the removable reservoir with water up to the maximum line, you can switch it on and it should heat up in around thirty minutes ready for use.

Making perfect espresso is a fine art, which is why coffee shops use highly trained baristas to give you your java fix. It is important to make sure you have measured the correct amount of ground coffee into the portafilter, either double or single depending on the strength required, and then tamp down firmly with around 30 pounds of pressure.

To test out how hard this is, it is a good idea to push down on a set of scales a few times first until you get it right. The tamper provided with this machine is not ideal as it is flimsy and made of plastic, so it is advisable to purchase a metal one if possible. This will help you to get a rich and silky smooth crema on top of your espresso.

This machine also has an excellent steam wand if it is milky coffees, such as lattes and cappuccinos that you prefer. It is very easy to create smooth and bubble free steamed milk. One of the reasons that the Rancilio Silvia espresso machine is so popular, aside from its simple, classic design and not over-inflated price tag, is the fact that it is one of the easiest espresso machines to use, meaning that anyone can enjoy delicious espresso based drinks at home.

Best Coffee Maker - Which Is the Best Coffee Maker?

The best coffee maker and how it would be able to qualify to get such a title are dependent upon a number of factors. Whether it is the best espresso maker, Cappuccino, Latte, or a Crema Coffee brewing machine it is often helpful to gain the opinion from coffee maker reviews and the best star rating that they been given. Cuisinart, Bunn, Tassimo are just a few of names available to choose from.

A basic appliance with a decent amount of flavour in it will be dependent upon the volume of water you insert into the water reservoir. An over abundant amount of water will diminish the taste, but a smaller amount will give a stronger flavour. There are measurement fluid markers placed at various distances apart so this should never really be a problem. The water within the reservoir compartment is heated as it moves on through a pipe. This is then directed into the area where the grinded beans are discharged. The water moves through the container soaking the beans, transporting the flavoured liquid into the bowl. This course of action continues until the brew process has completed.

Modern technology has ensured that the best coffee maker machines of today will make a cappuccino, latte, or espresso a relatively stress free process.There are various brand manufacturers names available to suit each particular persons taste and budget.

With regard to these various types of drink blends, it is worth knowing that effective bar pressure is imperative for creating a good crema. The speed of this will determine if the drink tastes bitter or mild. Fifteen to nineteen is the ideal bar pressure that will give you a great crema.

To create an espresso the machine uses the force of a pump to push steam within coffee grounds. The steam integrates with and progresses through the granules and trickles into the container or pot beneath. If the granules are of a fine consistency then it will take between twenty and thirty seconds for the steam to pass through them. The extra steam that is formed is released through another spout to heat the milk.

To find the best coffee maker you will need see that is accessible to clean and a suitable size for you kitchen work surface. Some people are captivated by visually striking apparatus that do not always work well in real life settings. So it will be important to locate that sublime balance of a machine that looks the part, but will withstand the workings of everyday use. There are some appliances being sold that use coffee that is packaged. With this all you would need to do is insert the disk and turn on the power.

There is even a coffee maker available that not only brews Crema, Cappuccino, Latte, but will also create tea and hot chocolate automatically with ease. Such a piece of apparatus would make this worthy of the title of the best coffee maker.

Espresso 101 - All About Espresso Drinks and Machines

You may not know this, but espresso is not a specialty drink or special type of coffee bean. It actually refers to the process of making the coffee. Regular coffee is made by steeping grounds in hot water, much like we steep tea bags (the tea bag acts as the filter). Espresso, however, is made by forcing hot water through very finely ground coffee. The grounds are pressed (you've probably seen your barista do this) and then the water is forced through quickly and at high pressure. The result is a coffee with a more intense flavor.

Because espresso has such a concentrated flavor per a small amount of water, it can be used to create any number of amazing coffee drinks. Many of the drinks people favor at coffee houses are created using espresso as a base. Not clear on how the drinks are different? Below is a list of the five most popular espresso drinks in the United States, and how they're made.

Types of Espresso Drinks:

All of these popular coffee drinks start with espresso.

Americano - An Americano is espresso with hot water added. The name of the drink comes from WWII. American soldiers, unaccustomed to the intense flavor of espresso, would ask for water to dilute it.

Cappuccino - A cappuccino is simply espresso, milk, and a lot of foam. Foam, by the way, is also made of milk.

Mocha - A mocha is a delicious mix of espresso, milk, chocolate syrup, and whipped cream. It can be one of the higher calorie drinks, but it sure is worth it!

Latte - A latte is made by combining espresso, lots of milk, and foam. Essentially a latte and cappuccino are the same except that a latte has more milk and cappuccino has more foam.

Breve - To make a breve, combine espresso with half-and-half (milk with cream) and foam.

Types of Espresso Makers You Can Buy:

For those of you who are looking to buy your own espresso machine for home use, there are many options. There are so many options, in fact, that it can be overwhelming to a first-time buyer. Below are the main types of espresso machines on the market, and how they differ from one another.

Manual machines- Manual machines use a lever to force the water through the coffee grounds. The lever is operated manually, rather than using steam or a pump. Because it takes quite a bit of skill and practice to operate a manual machine and still get good espresso, manual espresso makers are only popular with people who really want to perfect the art.

Steam driven - These machines use steam to force water through the grounds rather than a pump or a manual lever. The quality of brew can vary a great deal from machine to machine. Steam machines can also be a bit difficult to maintain. But with a good machine and a little practice, you can get an excellent espresso for a pretty reasonable price.

Semi-automatic - These pump-driven machines can deliver an excellent brew, and are affordably priced. You control the brewing, so it can take some practice to learn how to make an espresso the way you like it, but many people enjoy the option of figuring out their personal perfect brew.

Automatic - Automatic machines are pretty much the same as semi-automatic ones, except that the brewing is programmable and not directly controlled by the user. This is great for people who just want a good espresso without trial and error or fine-tuning.

Super automatic - These are the top-of-the-line espresso makers that do everything for you. They even grind the coffee beans. Some models dump the used grounds in a waste drawer! If you have the money and don't want to fuss with figuring anything out, this is the type of espresso maker you want to buy.

How To Find The Best Coffee And Espresso Maker

If you really do love your coffee, but are fed up with having to pay the high prices that your local coffee house charges, then why not consider purchasing a good coffee and espresso making machine so that you have great coffee at home any time you want. But just how do you go about finding the best coffee and espresso maker in order to achieve this?

The first thing you should consider when looking for a great machine is what types of coffee drinks you will be making with it. If you are looking to produce either just a basic cup of coffee or espresso then look at one of the cheaper basic versions such as the Saeco Vienna espresso machine. However, if you are looking for one that allows you to produce more speciality kinds of coffee such as cappuccinos and latte's, then you need to consider the ones which have more attachments to them. But whichever machine you decide to select, you will find that all of them are both easy and convenient to use.

Certainly when looking for the best possible coffee and espresso combo machine possible it is important that you take a number of points into consideration.

Firstly think about how big you want the machine to be. You do not want one which looks like it should be sat in a coffee bar somewhere. But you should choose one that will produce enough coffee without having to go and replenish it every few minutes.

Probably the best place to search for a good quality coffee and espresso combo machine is online. There are many websites that have now been set up which cater to our needs for this particular drink and will often be very competitive with the prices they are asking for their products. Also you could always try auctions websites such as eBay where you can find coffee and espresso makers at a deep discount.

Before purchasing the best coffee and espresso maker that you have found online, it is important that you carry out some research as well. If you are able to visit the manufacturers site of the model you are interested, they will provide you with more in depth information regarding the machines capabilities. Also try visiting websites and forums where they are reviews and discussion by people who have brought espresso machines.

Automatic Espresso Machines - Set it and Forget It

Most espresso machines on the market offer a great number of features and deliver delicious tasting espresso. They also have one problem, most espresso machines operate manually. Enter the automatic espresso machine. Automatic espresso machines will grind the coffee beans, put the grounds in the hopper, then fill the reservoir with water, heat the water and then force the heated water through the grounds to produce a perfect cup of espresso every time. Some high-end machines will even dump the used grounds from the hopper when finished so that the machine is ready for the next brewing cycle.

Most automatic espresso machines are used by commercial coffee shops like Starbucks. Commercial coffee shops use the automatic machines to produce a consistent product on a steady basis. Consistency in the commercial market is much more important than quantity when brewing the perfect espresso.

Consistency starts with the basic ingredients and how they are mixed. To make a consistent espresso there is very little margin for error. Automatic espresso machines can perform the task of brewing a great espresso with very little margin of error. When the grounds are added manually, there is often an opportunity for error. Too much or too little grounds can make or break a great flavored espresso. By using an automatic espresso machine, the grounds and the water are measured exactly right each time so every cup will have the same flavor and consistency. And when the machine is finished clean up is a snap, you wont have to worry about dumping the grounds from the hopper because it does it on its own. Automatic machines also cut down on the time between cups which in the commercial world can help increase productivity and profits.

Automatic espresso machines are not just for commercial use. If you have been thinking about getting an automatic espresso machine for your home, then you are not alone. Automatic espresso machines for the private sector are becoming more and more popular and sales are increasing each year. Even with the automatic machines growing popularity, some people feel that an automatic espresso machine removes the personal touch when it comes to making their espresso. There will still be those that feel the need to hand grind their own beans and measure everything by hand. Some people will just never trust a great espresso shot to a machine, no matter what the time savings.

But for those who make a lot of coffee at home, the thought of having their very own automatic espresso machine is so enticing that they are not concerned with how much a dent it puts in their budget. To these people, the more automatic machine is the better. But with automation and high quality comes higher prices. Generally, the more automatic the machine is and the better the quality, the higher the price. However, when you consider the ease of making espresso and the quality and consistency of the finished product plus the time savings involved, true espresso lovers will consider the high price a worthwhile expense.

Coffee Makers and Coffee Grinders

From the regular drip coffee maker to the old fashioned coffee perker, and even the gourmet espresso machine, coffee makers and grinders are a common kitchen gadget. Many people around the world love a fresh cup of home brewed coffee, and they like to make it for their company or in the morning to go with breakfast. There are many ways to get the job done, and here are some of the most common.

In the majority of coffee makers, automatic drip machines, pre-ground coffee is placed in a paper or metal filter, which is over top a glass coffee pot . Cold water is poured in, the machine heats it up to boiling and it trickles through the coffee grounds, then into the pot. There are also single cup drip coffee makers which don't use electricity, and you just pour boiling water into the top. These coffee makers are pretty easy to find in any department store, and can make from four to ten cups at once depending on the model.

There are single serving coffee makers that use a measured packet of coffee grounds like a tea bag. These are purchased in different flavors and varieties, ready to use. These are popular gadgets for houses that only need one cup of coffee made at once.

The coffee plunger, or French press, is another popular tool for making small amounts of coffee. It works by placing the coffee and hot water together, leaving it to brew for a few minutes, then pushing the plunger to the bottom to separate the grounds from the coffee. Since French presses don't use paper filters that would remove the oils and sediment with the grounds, French pressed coffee can be stronger and thicker than drip-brewed coffee.

Finally, there are espresso machines which produce a concentrated coffee 'shot' using hot water forced under high pressure through very fine grounds. A shot of espresso is thicker than regular coffee and has more sediment in it. Espresso is used in many other coffee drinks, such as lattes, cappuccini, and mochas. This is a much stronger drink than many are accustomed to, although some would say it is the only 'real' coffee.

If you want the full flavor and aroma from fresh ground coffee beans, you need a way to grind them at home. There are many different coffee grinders on the market, most having steel blades. As with many things, a little more money gets you a product that will perform better. For the real gourmet, a burr grinder is a step up from the steel bladed variety.

My favorite coffee maker came with a timer and a coffee grinder built into it. Every morning the preloaded coffee beans go into the grinder and grounds pour down into the filter. By the time I get up, coffee is ready. What a way to start the day. Bottoms up!

Finding The Best Commercial Espresso Machine

One of the most popular beverages in the world is coffee and I'm sure many people can't do without a cup of coffee or espresso early in the morning. It perks them up in the morning, ready to take on the rest of the day. Because of the huge demand, coffee makers such as Saeco and DeLonghi among others have produced lots of commercial espresso machines to satisfy the demand.

Coffee shops and cafes has also created a need for more high end commercial espresso machines to satisfy their customers. So with so many different models of coffee makers by different manufacturers, which one is the best commercial espresso machine?

To answer that question, there are 3 factors that you should consider before purchasing a commercial espresso machine.

The amount of time you need to wait for your espresso

I believe the best commercial espresso machine has to produce good quality espresso as fast as possible. This is particularly so for coffee shops and cafes which can't afford to have their customers waiting too long for a cup of espresso.

Some espresso machines are capable of dispersing two cups of espresso at once and can froth the milk almost instantly. Of course the cost is most likely higher but I do feel it is important.

Maintenance and Ease Of Use

Not only does a commercial espresso machine has to brew espresso in as short a time as possible, it should be easy to maintain and use as well. They are certainly some espresso machines that are difficult to use and maintain. The best commercial espresso machine should have a separate water tank and a container that automatically eject coffee grounds.

My advice is to check online and read the reviews of customers who have used the espresso machines.

Consistence of taste

The best commercial espresso machine should be capable of dispersing cup after cup of espresso with the same consistence. Most good espresso machines should have no problems doing this.

Are Super Automatic Espresso Machines Reliable?

When it comes to home brewed espresso, many Americans are turning to the convenience of super automatic espresso machines. Basically, there are three different types of espresso machines available for purchase, which are manual, semi-automatic, and super automatic. Some popular super automatic espresso machine brands are Capresso, Saeco, and Delonghi.

If you are interested in investing your money in a home super automatic espresso machine, that is an excellent choice because it will provide you with the opportunity to save money on a Starbucks run and learn how to make premium and professional espresso yourself. These machines are quite reliable, especially since they are the newer choices in advanced home brewing technologies. These machines are designed with more intricate components, and they actually work to make brewing more convenient with less interaction on your part. Super automatic machines allow you to program the volume of shot that you will brew, type of drink you will brew, strength of shot that you will brew, and they will even foam or steam the milk for you!

Saeco is quite a popular super automatic espresso machine brand, and they offer a number of choices, depending on your needs. These machines are quite dependable, and they range in price from moderate to more expensive. These machines work with a user-friendly control panel, and they have the capacity to brew up to 100 cups of espresso beverages per day, so they are perfect for home or semi-commercial use. They work with a one touch system, and the machine will grind the coffee beans, dose, tamp, and professionally extract the shot of espresso. Many people prefer the use of super automatic espresso machines because they also include a built-in coffee grinder, so you are saving money on purchasing additional accessories or machinery for brewing. Though these machines work to freshly grind and brew your espresso beans, they also have the feature of a bypass doser. This will allow you to input pre-ground coffee if you want to brew another type, like decaf or a gourmet blend. Again, many people prefer to use of these types of machines because they can brew and steam immediately without any downtime in the drink creation.

Capresso is another popular super automatic espresso machine producer, and these machines will allow you the same convenience of one touch brewing. They are also made of premium stainless steel to provide a longer life to the operation of the machine. These machines are often preferred because the brewing and frothing will work side-by-side, so the entire beverage will dispense into the cup without you having to move it. Capresso machines also work with steel lined heating systems, so there is no downtime causing you to wait between brewing and steaming.

If you want to save more money the long run, it always pays to invest in a durable machine that you can trust. So many people prefer the use of super automatic espresso machines for home use, and they allow you to conveniently and quickly brew any espresso beverage in moments!

Nespresso D290 Concept Espresso and Coffeemaker Review

The Nespresso Concept Espresso and Coffee maker creates rich and creamy espresso. Users are proud of how it is easy enough for anyone to use and get the espresso drinks just right. Soon you too will be able to enjoy cappuccinos and lattes from home without paying the coffeehouse prices.

How does Nespresso D260 Concept make espresso?

The Nespresso D290 Concept has a unique extraction system that is adapted to capsules. With 19 bar high pressure pump you can be sure to get all the aromas and creates a smooth rich crema in your cup. This helps create the perfect espresso. The capsules are good for up to 9 months to continue to make fresh coffee and espresso. Lift the jaw and the spent capsule is automatically ejected into the used capsule tray. The Nepresso only works with their capsules, it can not use ground coffee or other brands of capsules.

What other drinks can I make with the Nespresso Concept Espresso Machine?

The built-in automatic Aeroccino steaming wand creates a perfect thick, creamy hot milk froth. It can draw milk from the container and includes a special cappuccino and cafe latte function for perfect drinks every time. It also has a hot water option for tea, hot chocolate or soup. Remove the steam want and allow the hot water to pour into your cup or bowl.

What are the features of the Nespresso Espresso and Coffee Maker?

With two back-lit control buttons, you can easily program your cup volume. The Nespresso Concept cools down either by pressing the steam function or automatically after last steam function. The temperature is electronically regulated for convenience and consistency. The water tank holds 34 ounces and is very easy to fill and removable for cleaning. The machine looks nice on any counter and with a small footprint it fits almost any kitchen and works well in many offices.

What do people think of the Nespresso Concept?

This no mess, no fuss machine is something that has garnished loads of praise. The capsule method ensures the convenience and ease. Nespresso Espresso Machine reviewers liked being able to have the capsules that lasted for months versus the beans short lifespan. Most of the reviewers made multiple drinks per day, often making different types of espresso drinks using the milk function to make the lattes, cappuccinos, and more.

Did any reviewers complain about the machine?

Some reviewers did not like that only Nespresso Capsules worked. Some complained of long shipping times. While other reviewers praised how quickly Nespresso shipped. It is popular for home baristas and for ones who bought this machine for work. Most users were proud to share this machine and the espresso drinks with anyone who wanted some. It is extremely easy to use and makes a very good cup of espresso. The machine pulls a very consistent shot without being an expert barista which makes it great for many people. Overall this machine is highly recommended by over 80% of the users.

The Way to Make a Great, Terrific Cappuccino

To be able to make a great cappuccino there are a variety of steps you want to master.

First, you need to learn how to correctly steam the milk.

You can use any kind of milk for this process, from skim to 2% to whole milk. You may even use soy milk. Simply notice that the quantity of fat content within the milk will effect the steaming progression and each will act a little different.

Begin by filling your steam pitcher half full of milk. You do not want to to fill it all the way since the milk will increase as part of the steaming process. Additionally, make sure your milk is chilly as this helps in the foaming process.

As the next step you need to open the steam wand attached to your espresso machine with the intention to let any excess water out that might have gathered. You may wrap a towel around it while you do that so it does not spray everywhere. Next place the steam wand just below the floor of the milk. Flip the frothing wand on and start to steam the milk. Through the process you need to let a bit of little bit of air in by elevating the wand barely so air mixes with the milk. Ensure the milk is swirling while you are slowly lowering the pitcher as the milk rises to keep the wand at the similar level just below the surface. Watch out no to let too much air in in the course of the process or the milk will begin to bubble.

Whenever you start to really feel the heat of the milk through the pitcher in your hand it is time to cease the process. The milk at this point ought to have risen to the top of your pitcher. If you have a thermometer the perfect temperature for the milk needs to be about 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Clean your steam wand instantly after utilizing it by wiping it down with a damp fabric and turning it on briefly to clear any milk that will have gotten inside the wand.

If in case you have some air bubbles in your milk you'll want to get rid of them. This may be achieved by simply tapping the bottom of the pitcher on the counter.

The appearance of the milk ought to look very tight and firm and there shouldn't be any bubbles. The froth should be stiff enough to cling to a spoon but nonetheless very fluid.

The Ending Touch

Now take your perfectly foamed milk and slowly pour in into the center of your espresso. You need to pour it slowly and steadily in order that the crema of your espresso rises and envelops the milk within the heart of the bowl.

Now you will have a delicious cappuccino that looks pretty much as good as it tastes.

Enjoy!

Is the Pump Driven Starbucks Sirena Espresso Machine For You?

If you want a Starbucks quality espresso, it would only make sense to purchase a Starbucks endorsed espresso maker, right? The Starbucks Sirena Espresso maker is a pump driven 15 bar machine made from stainless steel and comes in a sleek sophisticated design. It has dual brewing spout, a steam want with a pannarello adapter, user programmable settings and can do a one touch pre-measured single or double single shots. The Sirena can accommodate both ground espresso coffee beans as well as E.S.E pods. It features a rapid steam boiler which allows for quick switching from the brewing to the frothing, and finally - it has a fifty seven ounce removable water tank and adjustable drip tray which is removable as well. In short, this espresso maker has all the bells and whistles that one would come to expect for a Starbucks backed product.

So thats what Saeco, the manufacturer wants us to know - now the real question is, what is the review of consumers? Most consumers are generally happy with the Sirena, however I should also note that this maker isn't the best for the first time user with very little patience. Consumers who are familiar and comfortable with espresso machines in general should have no problem with Sirena. They report that it is easy to use and like the fact that you can use both pods and grinds. The Starbucks Sirena also seems to be pretty durable according so consumers, with reports of six to ten pulls per day for months.The froth is very fluffy and the contemporary design of the machine is also a big plus for many users.

Now the negatives to the Sirena may be mostly end user error and should not totally discourage you from purchasing the  machine if you know what you're doing. One complaint that many have is with the water tank. The Sirena includes a sensor that alerts you to low levels, but apparently - the sensor has a mind of its own at times. Although the levels are good, the sensor still indicates otherwise. This is something relatively minor for most, but a major annoyance for others. There also seems to be confusion on who covers the warranty. When users needed to replace parts or the machine all together, there were misunderstandings between Saeco and Starbucks, it may be frustrating - so its best to clarify this upfront when you purchase.

All in all the Starbucks Sirena by Saeco is a pretty solid espresso maker. If you are a newbie to making espresso shots, the machine can grow with you - but you have to be patient. If you are a veteran in the game you'll be more than satisfied with all the features, taste and abilities.

Rancilio Silvia - The Top 5 Tips to Get the Most From Miss Silvia

I think any home espresso machine owner will agree that no matter which machine you're using, there is inevitably a "get to know one another" phase during which trial and error is just part of the process. Every machine operates differently and spending some time finding the proper settings and operating procedures to meet your espresso tastes will pay off in the long run. The Rancilio Silvia is no exception.

Although the Rancilio Silvia is an incredibly popular home machine, it relies heavily on its operator to produce outstanding espresso. This is certainly part of the beauty of its simplicity, but it can be a bit frustrating if it's your first home espresso machine.

After owning my Silvia for three years, let me save you some time and energy here. These are the top 5 tips that I've found help me to get the most (and best tasting espresso) out of my Rancilio Silvia.

Use a timer

I've been using a timer since I purchased my machine, and it works wonders. The durable construction of the Rancilio Silvia includes quite a bit of steel and a heavy duty boiler. Even the group head on this machine is incredibly solid. Ideally, the Silvia should warm up for 30 to 60 minutes. I use my machine at 5:30 or 6:00am, and I'm certainly not waking up early to turn the machine on. Using a simple Brinks outlet timer, I'm able to set the outlet in which Silvia is plugged into to turn on about half an hour before I wake up. By the time I'm, ready to make coffee, she's all warmed up.

Temperature surfing

There are many theories on how best to regulate the brewing temperature of the Rancilio Silvia, with many owners going so far as to install aftermarket industrial control modules (known as PID's) to micro-regulate the boiler temperature. It's a technique that's more complicated than most of us need in order to produce espresso, so I find "temperature surfing" to be the next best thing. After letting the machine warm up completely, simply run water through the portafilter until the orange "heating" light comes on. Turn off the pump and let the machine warm to the point where the orange light shuts off. Wait about 30 seconds and then pull your shot. That's easy, right?

Use freshly roasted beans

Alright, so this is good advice for any machine, but it is always worth repeating. If at all possible, use an espresso blend or the single origin bean of your choice that has been roasted within the last 5 to 10 days for optimal espresso extraction.

Use the right grinder

Everyone has a favorite grinder in addition to their espresso machine, however, many low end burr grinders really will not grind finely enough for the Rancilio Silvia. You'll especially notice this as the beans move past their roast date. If you're planning to spend $600 to $700 on an espresso machine, please first consider that you're not going to get the most out of this investment unless you plan to spend around $300 on a proper grinder. The classic combination is pairing Silvia with the Rancilio Rocky. I've been using his combination for two years now and it works great.

Pull a calibration shot

Every time you begin using a new batch of roasted beans, you should be pulling a "throw away" calibration shot. Each batch of beans will require a slightly different grinder setting and tamping pressure and the odds of you getting this right on your first shot are slim to none. Just take a step back, consider that you're always going to waste a few grams of your beans in getting the grind and tamp dialed in, and see what setting work best for that batch of beans.

I hope these tips are helpful in enhancing your Silvia experience. Follow these 5 guidelines and you'll get great espresso from this machine every time.

The Saeco Aroma Espresso Machine - Small Wonder

The home espresso machine market has several leaders worldwide with Saeco International being among them since 1981. Saeco machines have always been known for being long lasting and reliable, and the Saeco Aroma espresso machine continues that trend.

The "manual" and "automatic" descriptions used by Saeco to categorize their machines can be a little confusing.  The Saeco automatic line features built in grinders that grind fresh beans before brewing and the manual machines have no grinder on-board. The Saeco Aroma espresso machine is included in the "manual" category, meaning that this machine does not include the grinding feature.

Don't let this machine's small footprint fool you. Although limited counter space is not a problem with the Saeco Aroma, and it still delivers a truly Italian espresso experience. The compact size is ideal for placement on a kitchen or bar counter. The machine is constructed to last and is meant for regular use despite its small size. The durability is evident in the Aroma's all metal housing, pressurized brass portafilter and stainless steel boiler. The bottom line: this is one high quality machine, especially for the price.  

The portafilter is ESE pod-compatible so you have the option of using the Aroma with prepackaged espresso pods for effortless and quick clean-up. The minimalist control panel features a brew switch the operator uses to control the amount and strength of the coffee. The very effective cup warming area up top works well and is generous in size. It can also be used to store/display espresso cups when not in use. The water chamber and drip tray are simple to remove for refilling and easy cleaning. The controls are very straightforward and simple, providing the operator with an uncomplicated process. You switch between brewing and steaming with the knob located in front while the on/off button is on the side.

There are separate buttons to initiate steaming and brewing. Each of those buttons illuminate to alert the operator as soon as the machine is ready to perform its particular function. You simple turn the machine on and wait until the brew button light goes on and then press the brew button to extract the espresso in the desired amount. Releasing the water pressure at the correct moment ensures a perfect extraction and a thick layer of crema every time.

The machine even dispenses hot water for tea via its steam wand, which by the way also does a great job of frothing and steaming milk. The Aroma's efficient heating element allows for ample amounts of hot milk for lattes, mochas and cappuccino. The simple brewing features, the frothing tip for perfect foam, the 80 oz. built in water tank and a pump that has 15 BAR of pressure, all make this espresso machine a prime choice for those seeking a medium priced machine that still offers all of the quality that Saeco is known for.

Choosing an Excellent Espresso Cappuccino Maker

Can't start your day without stopping into your neighborhood coffee bar for your daily cappuccino fix? I too need my daily cappuccino to kick me into gear for the day. Espresso drinks are a tasty way to get your day started! And you're not alone - millions of Americans are willing to plunk down $4 plus to get their daily fix of creamy sweet caffeine deliciousness.

If you love your cappuccino or lattes that much, like I do, then there is a better way to start your day, and that is by making your own espresso drinks -- at home with your own espresso cappuccino maker. Wouldn't it be nice to wake up in the morning, walk into your kitchen, press a couple of buttons, and in mere minutes be savoring a fresh, steaming hot, foamy latte or cappuccino, that cost you mere pennies? Unless maybe you enjoy standing in line waiting to place your order, and then waiting some more while your drink is prepared and served in a paper cup. That's not the way the Italians do it by the way.

The Perfect Shot of Espresso

As you probably know, a great cappuccino begins with a great shot of espresso, and brewing a superb shot of espresso has never been less complicated. One of the very best built, most reliable and attractive machines that you can find today is made in Milan Italy, and is the Gaggia Platinum Vision Espresso Machine. Cappuccinos come from Italy, so why wouldn't the best espresso cappuccino maker come from Italy as well? When you enjoy your own home brewed espresso drinks you might actually think you're in a cafe bar in Italy.

Combining Craftsmanship with Technology

The Milan-manufactured Gaggia Platinum Vision espresso cappuccino maker is truly an amazing brewing system that you're going to positively fall in love with. The Gaggia Platinum Vision is what is referred to as a "super automatic espresso machine". It is fully automatic - all you need to do is fill the hopper with your favorite roasted coffee beans, fill the reservoir with water, press a few buttons, and you get an espresso drink exactly the way you like it.

Indulge Yourself Everyday -- You Deserve It

If you love coffee like I do then you can certainly splurge a little bit on a great espresso machine. And it's not so much a splurge, because you will be saving a ton of money when you can brew your own lattes and cappuccinos at home. You might even save enough money that you can pay for a trip to where espresso drinks originated - Italy. Have fun!!

When You Buy an Espresso Machine, How Much Should You Invest?

Did you know coffee professionals recommend when you buy your espresso machine and grinder, you spend more than the average you would spend on a refrigerator? Well, there is a very good reason for this.

Firstly, when you consider the price of a quality espresso machine you should remember they are handmade. Many of them include very complex and specialized parts which add to the overall cost of design and craftsmanship. Therefore, in order to make the right investment its best to consider buying an espresso maker as a life purchase. In other words, a home appliance you invest in for life.

Another factor to consider when deciding what you will spend on a machine, is how many years you want your machine to be working. When you break the cost of your investment over its life of five or ten years, or perhaps even longer, spending $1200 on your quality espresso machine no longer seems such a huge leap.

Take into account that espresso machines priced around the $500 mark and above are quality appliances built to last. For example, machines like the Pasquini Livia or Rancilio Silvia are put together with high-grade commercial parts designed to handle pulling shots up to 500 times a day. You cannot deny that these are serious quality pieces of equipment.

Now it is easy to guess that if you plan to buy an espresso machine intend to use it every day. Consequently, purchasing a quality machine with commercial parts will ensure you have consistency and fewer problems with the brewing process. In addition, if you plan to upgrade to a larger or more modern model in the future, a high quality machine maintains a higher resale value.

Whilst high-end espresso machines may also require maintenance and repairs overtime, you have the extra benefit of dealing with a quality manufacturers who provide superior warranties and customer service should the need arise.

Understandably, many people on a budget are tempted to buy cheaper espresso makers around the $100 to $200 mark. What they may not realize is that most of these models are only built to last for around two years - after which they need replacement parts.

It is definitely worth considering spending more upfront when you buy an espresso machine. Not only will you avoid the headache of hunting for parts in a year or so, you will not have to be without your morning espresso for weeks or possibly months, waiting for the parts to come in.

History of the Coffee and Espresso Machine

A large percentage of the population loves to drink both gourmet coffee and espresso drinks. We are all aware of the fact that coffee and espresso provide a boost of energy and they also warm your body up on those cold winter days. Most, however, are not familiar with the history of the coffee and espresso machines, themselves. Without these machines, we probably wouldn't see such a large population that can easily and affordably prepare these common drinks.

Where did the coffee maker come from?

Since the days of the early Egyptians, coffee has been a staple beverage for most people. Though the Coffee bean originated in Africa, it quickly spread to neighboring countries, like Arabia and Egypt. The first method of bean preparation was to roast the beans on an open fire and then added to boiling water for consumption.

It is believed that coffee was probably considered a type of wine and used to barter and trade. Fermented in much the same as grapes, coffee was a source of energy and warmth for most, but some drank it because they loved the taste, too.

A man by the name of Mr. Laurens came up with the first coffee-making machine in 1818. The machine was constantly modified by coffee drinkers. The coffee machine was actually a product that had just as many patents by women as men, that was practically unheard of at that time!

Through the years, the coffee machine has become a reliable, dependable and easy to use product. In the 1960's, the first filter machines were invented and the modifications have improved even more since then. Coffee making machines began as crude looking inventions, but have evolved into many different styles, making it possible for a Governor and a Harley biker to own the same style! Found in just about every home, the coffee machine is made by many manufacturers, including: Braun, Senseo, Kitchenaid, Krups and Pod.

Where did the espresso machine come from?

Discovered by a goat herder and developed by a tired, hungry traveler, the espresso drink has provided many with the extra energy they may need. The goat herder noticed the goats acting like they had an extreme boost of energy. As he searched for his heard, he noticed they were snacking on a red berry growing from shrubs. Curious, he ate a berry and felt as if he had suddenly gained more energy as a result. At the same time, a tired, hungry traveler witnesses the occurrences and jumped at the chance to try it for himself. Having the same reactions as the herder and goats, he knew that they were on to something. He took some berries and began to add them to drinks for those in his hometown, as the drink seemed to be a good source of energy. The idea took off from there!

The first espresso maker is said to have originated in Italy in 1901, by Italian manufacturing company owner, Lugia Bezzer. He was simply looking for a way to help speed up his employee's coffee breaks. He figured out that if pressure was applied in the brewing process, the drink could be made in a lot less time. Nicknamed "The fast coffee machine", the espresso machine patent was sold in 1905. The new owner, Desidero Pavoni developed an espresso machine that used a piston pump to force water through a tube and into the coffee.

Modifications on the espresso machine were halted by the onset of WWII. Production picked up after the war and in 1946, the commercial espresso machine was invented. Since that time, the espresso maker has been produced by many name brand companies, including: Juda, Mr.Coffee, Kitchenaid and Braun. Offering various features, styles, colors and prices, the espresso machine has come a long way!

For The Best Coffee - Gaggia Coffee Makers

Coffee lovers around the world know the name Gaggia coffee makers for it fine craftsmanship and superior coffee the machines makes. The company was founded by Achile Gaggia who in the 1930's patented a machine for making what we today know and enjoy, espresso.

Gaggia invention was to to develop a machine that applied steam pressure to freshly grounded coffee while the water passed through the coffee. This created the rich aroma and flavor and of course the creamy top of espresso.

He founded a company to manufacture these machines after world war two. It was not until 1977 that Gaggia Company launched the first espresso machine for the home. It's name was the Baby Gaggia. Through the years the company ahs launched a complete line of machines and other product lines. The line of coffee makers has evolved with technology but has kept the company tradition of making them to produce great coffee.

There are different models of the Gaggia Coffee Makers. The new Baby Gaggia is a redesigned model that has been in the market for 25 years. It has all the traditional features but now has a portafilter that maintains stable brewing temperature. The high voltage boiler now heats up quicker than previous models. It also has Gaggias patented turbo frothing wand that permits you heat up and froth milk for great cappuccinos. These espresso machines has many of the features of commercial machines for home use.

On the high end of the Gaggia machines is the Gaggia 90500 Titanium Super Automatic Espresso Machine. This machine has all the bells and whistles an state of the art technology. It has five temperature settings, three coffee volume settings and it has a unique feature of having two boilers to reduce the wait time between brewing and steaming. It also includes an automatic frothing attachment that draws milk to froth it. These is in essence the coffee lovers dream machine.

Gaggia offers other models that span the range in between the Baby Gaggia and the Titanium Suoer Automatic. They also have a coffee machine that is designed exclusively for making cappuccinos, the Gaggia Evolution. The company also sells coffee grinders so you can have fresh ground coffee to use in their machines.

The name Gaggia has become synonymous with espresso and their machines show that they strive to make the best coffee machines for both the consumer and commercial markets. If you like coffee, then this machines are worth taking a look at.

10 Easy Steps For The Perfect Cup Of Espresso At Home

There is nothing like a nice cup of espresso in the morning while reading the paper or after having a nice evening dinner. In this article I'll explain how to make the perfect cup of espresso, so you can enjoy your espresso even more. Follow the steps below and create your own home-made espresso.

Step 1: First of all, I'm assuming that you have your own coffee grinder and that you grind your own coffee beans. If you don't, or you are planning to do so, you can skip the rest of this article because the perfect cup of espresso can only be made by using freshly grounded beans.

Fill your coffee grinder with beans. Don't use more beans than necessary for the amount of coffee you are now going to make. The quality of the beans will degenerate quickly when exposed to air. This also applies to the coffee in your grinder!

Step 2: Make sure that your cup is warm enough. Usually the cup-heater of your espresso machine doesn't give enough heat to let the cup reach the right temperature. It's better to warm the cup with hot water. It's best not to use the warm water from your espresso machine, this decreases the temperature in the boiler of your machine, especially machines equipped with one boiler. Machines that have two boilers will supply water that is too hot for the cup, causing the coffee to burn when it's poured into the cup. If the cup-heater of your espresso machine does supply enough heat, be sure to place the cups in the middle, this is often the hottest zone. Make sure you place the cups up-side-down to capture the heat, but don't stack the cups.

Step 3: Dry your cup, make sure you do this before you remove the portafilter from your espresso machine. This prevents the portafilter from cooling down.

Step 4: Remove the portafilter from your machine. Rinse the portafilter for a very short time (no longer than 2 seconds!) with hot water from the machine. This is done to rinse and clean the portafilter. Make sure you don't rinse too long or with too much water, otherwise the water temperature in your machine will drop too much. By the way, always keep the portafilter placed in your machine and not next to it, this keeps the portafilter at the right temperature and ready for use.

Step 5: Clean the portafilter and make sure it's dry, you don't want the coffee and water to spatter all around your machine. This prevents a mess and it keeps the humidity as stable as possible in the environment around your coffee beans.

Step 6:

Now grind the right amount of coffee beans. Don't use more coffee than necessary to prevent oxidation of the remaining coffee grinding. Espresso uses a very fine grind, you only know if the grind is good when the brewing water is extracted in the right amount of time. (see step 10) You should use 6,5 grams of coffee to fill your portafilter.

Step 7:

Make sure you level the coffee with your finger and compact the coffee from 6 o'clock to 12 o'clock. This will improve the extraction later. Water always takes the path of least resistance causing the less dense coffee to be over-extracted and the surrounding denser grounds will not receive enough water flow and will be under-extracted.

Step 8:

Now use your tamper to apply pressure to your coffee grind. Be sure to use a tamper that fits exactly in the portafilter. Sometimes you'll receive a plastic tamper when you buy an espresso machine, they are usually incapable for applying enough pressure. Apply about 20-25 kg of pressure, if you're unsure how much that is, try pressing on a scale. You'll see that you tend to apply too much pressure. There are also devices available like a Clickertamp, which gives a click when enough pressure is applied.

Press down evenly with 20 to 25 kg of pressure, focusing more on being even than on pressure. Twist the tamper as you lift it upwards to prevent the coffee grounds from lifting with the packer. Gently remove the tamper. Make sure the edges of the portafilter are clean, this prevents problems when placing the portafilter in the machine. It also prevents coffee grind falling into your cup underneath the portafilter.

Step 9:

Put the portafilter in your espresso machine and immediately turn it on! If you wait too long, the coffee will burn due to the high temperature of the machine. Be sure that your espresso machine is set to produce 30cc of coffee in the cup. If you use a small cup, you can lift it up in the beginning to prevent spatters.

Step 10:

Keep an eye on the extraction time of the coffee, the ideal time is 25-28 seconds. If you want you can use a stopwatch. If it takes a shorter amount of time, the grind size is too big. If it takes longer, the grind is too fine and your coffee will taste bitter. In both of the cases adjust the grinding size of your coffee grinder.

Finally check the color of the crema, this has to be brown and evenly distributed over the surface. The crema layer should be strong enough to hold a spoon of sugar for several seconds. The perfect espresso smells like fresh roasted coffee beans and gives a 'round' taste in your mouth. You'll often recognize the perfect espresso after you tasted it for the first time. Enjoy!

Choosing an Automatic Espresso Maker

Knowing the availability of an automatic espresso maker is just the easiest part of it. The main work is choosing what you are likely to enjoy using and seeing around. You will be able to understand the steps you need to put in place when it comes to choosing the best automatic makers.

The gadget's consumption for power should come into the picture. Here there is a need to first know if your machine will be consuming what you can afford or will it be a great burden on you.

You must be sure that you can effectively use the machine and that the machine itself will work well with the mugs you use in brewing. The period it takes to for the coffee to mature and if at all there are elements you need to hold to the filter for it to function is also another quality you have to bear in mind while getting an automatic maker. In the same category, find out its capacity compared to the number of people it has to serve. This will give you an upper hand in knowing the right size to go for.

The general make of the automatic espresso maker is a point of attention during purchase. You should find out how the machine components are made. The trays are normally made of plastics and metal. You can choose what you think suits you best. Also on the make, there can be elements of easy accessibility to its components making it easy to maintain and clean, the meticulous details that accompany the fine finishing and other additional components like more spaces for keeping cups and mugs can be an added advantage.

What kind of operation board do you want for your new automatic espresso maker? There are machines that have got brighter signal light that will show you the stages of your coffee, while others do not have any at all. Some have got signal tones to alert you when your coffee is ready or when something has been placed inappropriately. Location of the switches can also help determine how easier it can be to operate. So choose wisely.

Breville Barista Express BES860XL Espresso Machine Review

Introducing the Breville Barista Express BES860XL

If you are looking for one of the best automatic espresso machines money can buy, you should definitely be looking at the latest offering from Breville, the Breville Barista Express BES860XL. In less than 120 seconds you can go from an empty espresso cup to one full of rich, dark espresso with a nice cream on top. While this espresso machine is slightly more expensive than some of the other offerings on the market today, it is still a relatively cost effective option for someone looking to get into home espresso brewing for the first time. If you are an experiences barista, this will still offer you lots of options for making the perfect shot of espresso as well.

The Breville Barista Express BES860XL - Features And Specifications

The Breville Barista Express BES860XL features a 15 bar pump, which is just the right amount for a machine like this. It has a relatively large water capacity, which is nice as refilling these machines safely can be a pain sometimes. It has a conical burr grinder build right in it, so you don't have to invest in a separate grinder for fresh espresso. It is fully programmable, but it also offers a lot of manual settings so as you gain experience, you can set up your home espresso experience just the way you want it.

Using The Breville Barista Express BES860XL - The Experience

The user feedback we got from the Breville Barista Express BES860XL was actually quite good. To preface this, you must understand that while this is billed as a "beginner" home espresso machine by some people, it does take a little while to learn all the ins and outs. But, users liked how it makes a consistent shot of espresso every time, how it never breaks down, and they love the level of customer service that Breville offers. When you buy a Breville product, you have one of the best companies in the espresso machine market standing behind the product. As for the drawbacks to this machine - some people didn't like the grinder, but others loved it. So, this will be based on user preference. This machine was very easy to clean, and the built in water filter is also a nice touch. Overall, the experience the Breville offers can't be beat for the price!

The Final Word On The Breville Barista Express BES860XL

There is no doubt that the Breville Barista Express BES860XL Espresso Machine is the best home machine that we tested. It had all the features we were looking for, and none that we didn't need. The build in grinder is a nice touch, even though it can be quite loud at times. But, when you compare other machines that are in the same price range and offer the same features, this machine is far and away the best offering. If you are looking for a high quality home espresso machine for a reasonable price, this is it!

Espresso Maker Review - DeLonghi BAR32 - Best Price

Hello and welcome to this Go articles review of the DeLonghi BAR32 espresso coffee maker. With this review it is my intention to inform the reader of all the key issues regarding this machine and hopefully bringing them to the point where they can make a confident decision about which coffee maker is best.

First we should mention the fact that this machine is pump-driven instead of steam-driven, this is very important, as pump-driven machines typically scorch the coffee grounds and leave the espresso tasting burnt.

This machine can use both pods and grounds when making coffee, this is brilliant because it means a wide variety of people can enjoy this machine. Those who are perfectionist in nature can use gourmet coffee grounds of their choice and spend the time necessary to make that perfect cup of coffee. While those of us who are happy to just have great tasting espresso but also want it fast should be happy campers here as well. I know for me personally just after I have gotten up first thing in the morning, measuring coffee into a scoop and messing around is something I don't particularly want to do.

The pods while a little on the expensive side at 18 pods for $12 make really good coffee and if we were to compare this price to that of a coffee shop we would undoubtedly see massive savings over the course of a year.

Quickly before we finish we should talk about the water; if you are happy with "passable" water with your coffee then putting tap water through the espresso makers filter may be enough, but personally I don't think so. My strong recommendation when it comes to water is to use mineral water with your coffee, the water that we use comprises 98% of the coffee we drink, and so shouldn't be taken lightly.

Capresso's All-In-One Machine: The Capresso 303 4-Cup Espresso Cappuccino Machine

Your espresso tastes like coffee brewed by a professional barista when you have the Capresso 303.01 4-Cup Espresso and Cappuccino Machine doing the brewing for you.

This easy to use coffee machine is no simple brewer of coffee, but a magical contraption that spews delightful cappuccino and espresso.

After recommendations from its patrons, Capresso improved the typical brewed coffee maker by adding cappuccino/espresso features. This improvement was welcomed with delight by its users who are surely not short-changed with this innovation.

What makes Capresso 303.01 4-Cup Espresso and Cappuccino Machine worth the buy?

It's a Capresso.

Nobody turns down a Capresso machine. Its high quality coffee makers have been a must-have during corporate functions as well as in coffee shops. A Capresso in your own kitchen is truly something to be proud of.

More than Just Brewed.

The Capresso 303.01 4-Cup Espresso and Cappuccino Machine produces espresso, latte and cappuccino as well as your basic brewed coffee. All of this in just one machine. It's like having a coffee shop in your own home.

Four Times the Fun.

One set brewing produces four cups of coffee. Of course, after a cup of its coffee, you will still crave for more.

Steam Option

You can switch from brewing coffee to steaming milk or vice versa.

Coffee Strength Modes

The Capresso 303.01 4-Cup Espresso and Cappuccino Machine is designed to create different levels of coffee strengths - strong, medium, mild.

Swivel Frother

The frother can be easily adjusted, depending on the amount of milk that needs to be frothed.

Safe to Hold and Carry.

This coffee machine's filter holder has a thumb guard that enables you to have a strong grip of the machine.

Excellent Coffee.

Last but not least the Capresso 303.01 4-Cup Espresso and Cappuccino Machine produces excellent taste of coffee - may it be espresso, latte or cappuccino. Its boiler is fast as well. In just few seconds, your espresso is ready in flavorful taste and rich aromatic feel.

If you are a coffee aficionado and skilled at figuring out coffee machines, you will likely have an edge over first time users. Some of the instructions that come with the machine have left some users wanting more clarification. While that may be draw back, the good part is it is really that easy to figure out and most coffee maker owners won't feel like as if they were diffusing an atom bomb. It's that easy to get acquainted with and start using.

Consumer ratings of the Capresso 303.01 4-Cup Espresso and Cappuccino Machine have been overall good. Accordingly, the excellent features and durable quality of the machine are not the only reasons why buyers prefer this product - the affordable price of Capresso 303.01 4-Cup Espresso and Cappuccino Machine also took a say in its high standing in the market.

So why make the trip to the cafe or your favorite barista when you can have your own little coffee shop at home with the all around Capresso 303.01 4-Cup Espresso and Cappuccino Machine.

The Interesting Facts About Coffee Maker

Coffee makers date back to the Turks in 575 A.D. It wasn't until 1818 that the first coffee percolator was made. This coffee pot is also called the cowboy pot because many cowboys began using it. From 1835 to 1850, coffee makers saturated the market. Pressure steamers, glass balloons, grinders, and roasters all became available.

In 1890, the Manning-Bowman Percolator began being distributed in the United States. These percolators were linen with a cloth that had to be washed after each use. A paper filter was introduced in 1912. This made making and cleaning up of coffee much easier, and it increased in popularity. It wasn't until 1960 that coffee pots with disposable filters began being used commercially.

The coffee maker industry hit it big in 1972, with the Mr. Coffee automatic drip process and disposable filter. Mr. Coffee is still the biggest selling coffee maker in the world. This is because Mr. Coffee has continually updated their product with the needs of the consumer. For example, in 1977 the price of coffee tripled. Mr. Coffee came out with a maker than used less coffee grounds, yet had the same great taste. The design stayed the same until 1979 when a timer was added. Now people could conveniently set their coffee to start brewing at a certain time each day.

Mr. Coffee added additional products to the popular coffee maker. 1989 was the introduction of the maker that only makes 4 cups in a pot. This was at the demand of people who consumed small amounts of coffee, but still wanted it to be fresh. The same year, Mr. Coffee introduced the first ice tea maker. Mrs. Tea followed suite in 1995, similar to Mr. Coffee, only for hot tea.

Coffee continues to be one of the most demanded products in the world. Regardless of how you like your coffee or where you purchase it from, coffee comes in a variety of flavors and with a variety of addings for individual flavor.

Espresso Makers 101 - A Guide to Espresso Makers and Machines

Believe it or not, there are eight different types of espresso makers. The first, and most common one to find in homes in Spain, Portugal and Italy, is the stovetop espresso maker. There are three chambers, the top holding the ground coffee, the middle being a filter basket and the bottom holds the water. As the water is heated, it forces steam up through a tube to the second chamber, then the top, making espresso that is ready to serve.

A steam espresso maker is very similar to a stovetop one, and produces a cup of espresso that is nearly identical. A piston-driven espresso maker is another beast entirely. This type of espresso maker comes in high end designs that can cost several hundreds of dollars. Ornate and exquisite, they can be made out of brass, copper, chrome or silver.

Also, the piston-driven espresso maker is what made the crema a desirable trait in a cup of the drink. Before, the crema was thought of as an unwanted waste product.

The piston-driven espresso machine gave birth to its pump-driven counterpart. Small, simple and ideal for home use, it is also the most popular machine found in American coffee shops. A motor-driven pump does the work that manual force used to, making this version very easy to operate.

There are also semi automatic and automatic espresso machines, the former is automatic in the way that the water is delivered from a pump instead of manual force. The latter allows the user to send a programmed amount of water through the flow meter.

Super automatic espresso machines are even easier to operate, since they literally do all of the work for you. From grinding to tamping and extracting, getting a perfect cup of espresso has never been easier. Fully self contained, all you have to do is fill the water reservoir and bean hopper. The antithesis of the Presso manually operated coffee press, these are more expensive but completely fool proof.

What Are The Benefits Of Drinking Espresso

As long as you do not drink too much, espresso is good for you. But just why is espresso good for you? The reason is that it contains anti-oxidants that many people are unaware of. These anti-oxidants help to boost your health and it does not matter whether you drink espresso or a cappuccino.

Unfortunately lots of people will avoid drinking coffee because of the amount of caffeine that it contains. But this is not the only ingredient in it and there are plenty of others that are actually beneficial to our bodies. It has been found that the anti-oxidants contained within coffee help to boost our immune system to lend a hand in staying healthy. It has also been proven that anti-oxidants can help to decrease the likelihood of someone developing heart disease.

Plus these anti-oxidants will also help to reduce the risk of someone developing cirrhosis of the liver that can in some cases lead to liver cancer. But it should not be used as a replacement in place of you having regular checkups or screenings with your family doctor.

In research carried out by various places across the world the following was found that there were some benefits to be had from drinking coffee.

1. A reduced risk of diabetes. Research carried out at Harvard which analyzed data on 126,000 people over an 18 year period found that by drinking between 5 and 6 cups of coffee a day men reduced the risk of getting Type 2 Diabetes by 54% and women reduced their risk by 30%.

2. Parkinson's. In a recent study carried out it was found that men who drank 4 to 5 cups of coffee each day cut their risk of developing Parkinson's disease by nearly half compared to those who consumed little or no coffee each day.

3. Heart Disease. This is one of the biggest killers of people around the world. In a study carried out by Scottish Heart Health on 11,000 men and women (aged between 40 and 59) it was found that the more coffee they drank the less risk there was of them dying from heart disease.

So as you can see from above there are many reasons as to why espresso is good for you. Why not start enjoying a cup or two each day from now on. I am sure your body will soon be thanking you for it!

The DeLonghi Magnifica Super Automatic Espresso Machine Is Super Awesome

The Good

The Magnifica super automatic espresso machine, from DeLonghi, is really a nicely created, sturdily constructed espresso and cappuccino maker.

DeLonghi has integrated a great number of pro-quality features into this sleek-looking counter-top appliance which produces a consistent, rich, scrumptious, steaming hot espresso every time.

The Magnifica super automatic features DeLonghi's patented beans-to-brew system, which grinds your coffee beans immediately prior to brewing your drink, resulting in the freshest, greatest tasting espresso possible

I would consider the DeLonghi Magnifica super automatic espresso machine to be the greatest in it's class for price and efficiency. It produces an excellent espresso, and is also super-easy to clean and maintain, something that other manufacturers models aren't. You can very easily pull out the brew group and clean it - and this is extremely essential. Doing so on a regular basis will ensure flawless operation for a lot of years.

If you want to keep your machine at it is optimal working condition there are two issues to keep in mind: Do upkeep on the machine on a routine, weekly basis, and don't use oily espresso beans in the machine.

If you are able to, use distilled water or spring water instead of faucet water. Your coffee will taste much better if you do.

You should only use 100% Arabica coffee beans, which are usually non-oily. Using oily beans will result in the machine getting clogged, and also the clogged grounds may get rancid. It will also shorten the life of the machine.

Thoroughly clean the brew group at least once a week. Just snap it out and run it under hot water.

De-calcify the machine when it signals you to complete it. It's easy to do so don't put it off.

The Bad

The bean grinder is a bit noisier than some machines. But grinding only lasts for a few seconds.

It does not come on automatically at a pre-set time, like in the morning. You won't have to wait long, however, because it heats up to brew-temperature in just a few minutes.

The cup warmer could get a little warmer. Run your cups beneath hot h2o for a couple of seconds and then place them back on the tray.

Here is what I personally consider to be the best espresso settings:

Espresso quantity control set at 10 o'clock

Espresso strength control set at three o'clock

Use the single cup espresso option

Set the bean grinder at 5

The coffee from the Magnifica is just as good as from Starbucks, and is also very close to what you might find in Italy - not quite, but purchasing your own DeLonghi Magnifica super automatic espresso machine is a great deal less costly than going to Italy for a great espresso that has a great créma, is the perfect temperature, and has rich, robust flavor.

Nespresso Machines

Caffè, Kahve, Coffee, Koffie. Regardless of the language spoken, coffee is a luxury to be savored. Is there a more luxurious way to enjoy coffee and espresso than by indulging in Nespresso? Europeans don't think so. From Italy to Japan, Turkey to Africa and nearly everywhere in between, Nespresso is offering espressos with strong rich aromas.

Nespresso's coffee experts travel the globe searching for local coffee farmers with the highest quality coffee beans. Innovative designers have captured the freshness and superiority of these beans using a unique capsule design. These capsules preserve the quality of Nespresso and provide protection from light, moisture, and air. Keeping the environment in mind, the capsules are made from 80% to 90% recycled material and are completely renewable. Nespresso capsule's eco-friendly packaging seals away over 900 different aromas, patiently waiting to be released and relished.

Nespresso offers 16 decadent varieties, each tantalizing the tongue with exotic flavors such as hints of jasmine and fruity undertones. Some present a bold experience while others soothe with sweet biscuity appeal. Each espresso variety adheres to Nespresso's strict quality criteria. Choose from satisfying blends found in every corner of the world; full-bodied Southern Indian espressos, pure Brazilian creations and delightful decafs are designed to uplift and rejuvenate. To allow coffee lovers everywhere to enjoy these wonderful blends daily, Nespresso has partnered with some of the world's most admired espresso machine builders including CitiZ and De'longhi.

CitiZ engineered a sleek, beautifully designed machine balanced with simplicity. With features such as a high-pressure pump (19 bar), removable water tank, 9-11 used-capsule container, 7.5 lbs. (3.4 kg), Nespresso quality seal technology, programmable volume control, power save mode, and elegant colors; CitiZ adds a classy and practical touch to any kitchen.

De'longhi crafted their contemporary Lattissima with an added specialty: milk containers with a rinsing function just for latte and cappuccino connoisseurs. Vibrant shades such as chrome and red complement its functionality, including a removable water tank, 15 used-capsule container, 11.7 lbs. (5.3 kg), 9-cup capacity warming plate, volume control, and energy saving and standby modes.

The Nespresso Concept joins a futuristic appearance with modern functions. The Concept has characteristics such as programmable volume, an automatic steam nozzle for frothing milk, warning and indicator sounds, electronic temperature regulation, removable water tank, and a generous welcome package from Nespresso!

Experience the meeting of style and ease with the Nespresso Essenza C101. An effortless way to make a perfect espresso or lungo with programmable coffee quantities, a 14 used-capsule container, and a compact size.

I still remember my first trip to Paris; sitting at the foot of the Eiffel Tower sipping a delicious espresso unmatched by anything available in the United States. Every taste of Nespresso reminds me of the perfection that Europe has brought to coffee. This site was made to share my love of Nespresso with you, so you might enjoy the taste of Europe in your own home. "Nespresso. What else?"