The overwhelming probability is that you already own a kettle of some description. Arguably the most common of kitchen appliances, the kettle is almost a given. But everyone has their own preference and needs. Definitely the electric kettle is more common, but many of us prefer the more traditional stovetop kettle. With the increasing popularity of specialist coffee and tea, if you’re looking for a new kettle choosing is harder than it’s ever been. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you choose one or the other: should you go for a stovetop kettle, or an electric one? The answer will depend on what you intend to use it for, and your specific needs. Read on and we’ll tell you all you need to know so you can make an informed choice. Stovetop Kettle And Electric Kettle: What’s The Difference?![]() It would seem at first that they have more in common than they have differences. Both are of course used to produce hot water, and feature a spout through which the water can then be poured. But the fundamental difference is in the way that they heat water. The stovetop kettle for coffee, as per the name, requires an external source of heat to work. In 90% of situations, this is going to be the stovetop. Electric kettles, of course, require a mains connection to heat boiling water and require no external heat. The differences do not end there, however. Whereas stovetop kettles are great at producing a rolling boil and can actually heat water above boiling point, electric kettles offer a whole range of different options which the stovetop kettle can’t match. For example, many electric kettles offer a range of heat settings, meaning you have precision with your hot water. They feature a water gauge, and they boil water much faster. Which is most appropriate for you depends a great deal on your tastes and what you intend to use the kettle for. If you’re looking to buy a pour over coffee kettle, you may find our guide helpful. Is A Stove Top Kettle Better Than Electric?It’s hard to say whether one is better than the other without bearing in mind why exactly you are boiling water. If you you’re in the market for a tea kettle, you will have completely different requirements to a pour-over coffee aficionado. What works for one may not work for others. Below are the pros and cons of this classic design. ProsStovetop kettles produce a rolling boil, which means they can be heated and kept at temperature, which can be useful when you’re serving up coffee all day. They have the ability to heat water above boiling point, which for making certain types of tea can be a major advantage. They are easy to take away travelling into nature, as they require no mains supply to work – simply put it on the campfire and voila: hot water. They contain no heating element, which if not properly maintained can be harmful to your health. They are easier to clean as there are no electronics and no heating element, meaning no hard to reach spots where limescale can accumulate. ConsDoesn’t have the same level of flexibility as an electric kettle. Comparatively slow to heat. Can only be used where there is an external heat source. Stovetop kettles certainly have their uses, and for many who like the hands-on feel as they boil water these are the way to go. They are not so good for specialist coffee however, as there are no temperature settings. Although you can remove from the heat and leave to sit for 30 secs, this is less than ideal for many baristas. Should You Buy An Electric Kettle?![]() Electric kettles have many advantages, especially for maker of pour-over coffee. Goose necked electric kettles are increasingly common for this reason, as they offer greater precision in pouring and temperature control. Temperature control is important as boiling water is too hot for many brews. For example, the ideal temperature for pour-over is around 96C, but for green tea around 70C is ideal. ProsTemperature control settings allow you to heat water to the exact temperature you desire, meaning you can use the kettle for a much wider range of tasks. Boils much faster than the traditional stovetop version. Can be used anywhere there is a mains connection, so great for hotel travel. More energy efficient. ConsCan be harder to clean due to the heating element. See our post on how to clean your kettle for more information. Is An Electric Kettle Harmful?Modern electric kettles are not harmful to health. Some older versions did have issues with BPA plastics, but it is easy to find non-BPA products if you do opt for a plastic kettle. Stainless steel kettles do not have this issue, which is why they are favoured by many. Is It Cheaper To Use An Electric Kettle Or Gas?![]() Electric kettles are slightly more energy-efficient, coming in at around 80%, vs 70% efficiency on the stovetop. However, this is evened out by the fact that gas is cheaper per unit than electric. Then you need to factor in the fact that stovetops take longer to boil water vs an electric kettle. On balance, it probably works out roughly the same, but perhaps slightly cheaper to use an electric kettle. Which Is The Best Electric Kettle To Buy?The best kettle for you will depend on your needs and what you will use it for. The Hario Buono is a stovetop model which incorporates a gooseneck spout and beautiful design. Or if you’ve decided to go electric, the Brewista Smart Pour has variable temperature controls and can be plugged directly into the mains. Whichever way you decide to go, so long as you consider carefully what you need the kettle for and bear in mind the information above, we’re sure you’ll find the right kettle for you. If you still can’t decide, why not check out our full product range and see if you find anything there that’s perfect for you. The post Should You Buy A Stovetop Or Electric Kettle? appeared first on Alternative Brewing. from https://alternativebrewing.com.au/stovetop-electric-kettle-guide/
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Nowadays the Keep Cup is a fixture in many offices and homes, and can be seen in cafes, parks, on the train … pretty much anywhere people might be drinking coffee. But it really wasn’t so long ago that plastic-lined paper cups were the only option for the coffee drinker on the go. With the majority of disposable coffee cups being non-recyclable, this meant that many of these cups were destined for the landfill. The invention of the KeepCup changed all of that. Now a global phenomenon, keepcup have come to define the reusable coffee cup. This Melbourne-borne invention has not only revolutionised the way we drink coffee: it’s helped shape how we think about the environment, and empowered millions to take a positive step towards sustainability. Who would have thought that a cup could do so much? Below we’ll delve deep into keep cup history, covering how and why it was invented, and why it’s so important today. Who Invented The Keep Cup?![]() Brother and sister team Jamie and Abigail Forsyth had been in the coffee business for a few years before they came up with the reusable KeepCup for coffee. They opened their first cafe, Bluebag, in Melbourne in 1998, and quickly grew their business into a small chain. Disposable cups were becoming more common, as Melbourne’s now famous cafe culture grew, and so they were more than aware of the problems associated with the single use cup. At this stage reusable coffee cups were mostly limited to the ceramic versions we’re all familiar with from the coffee shop. For years, they found they had no choice but to use disposable cups that were available. But in the background they began thinking of how they might be able to step away from single use plastic lined cups: to something that would reflect their passion for the environment, as well as their love of coffee. As more reusable cups came to market, they trailed a variety of them in their cafe. But nothing seemed to do the job. The reusable cups that were available weren’t designed for the speciality, Barista brewed coffee popular in Melbourne, having been developed in the US for filter coffee. This meant they couldn’t fit under the group heads of the coffee machine, making it nearly impossible for the Barista to dose correctly. So there was only one option left. When Were Keep Cups Invented and Why?![]() In 2007, increasingly concerned with the impact the disposable cups they were using were having on the environment, and frustrated by the cups available on the market, Jamie and Abigail Forsyth began designing their own. The prototypes would eventually develop into the KeepCup. To understand what drove them to keep seeking the perfect reusable coffee cup, it is important to understand their philosophy when thinking about the Keep Cup. The KeepCup was of course designed to reduce waste, but the company were more ambitious than this. They were trying to achieve a widespread behaviour change with their product. That is, to change people’s mindsets from one of us discard to reuse. With cafe culture worldwide taking hold, and having identified that the existing reusable cup market didn’t cater for it, they saw an opportunity to capture the world’s imagination. With a reusable cup. Today, it is estimated that the KeepCup is responsible for saving over 1 million disposable cups from landfill every single day. That places them amongst the most effective products invented in the war on waste. But it wasn’t just the KeepCups’ environmental credentials that made it so popular: far from it. Not only did they identify a gap, they filled it with a product that was genuinely a cut above the rest. Why Are Keep Cups Good?Keep cups are designed for Barista style coffee. This means that not only are they available in a range of sizes to accommodate your favourite brew: all but the largest will fit easily under the group head of a commercial espresso machine. This makes them perfect for the cafe environment, enabling their use in high volume cafes and bringing the Keep Cup to everyone. The push-on lid is revolutionary, completely watertight but super fast to apply. It also allows KeepCup users to enjoy their coffee safely on the go, and baristas to work fast. If used without the lid, the tapered glass edge is designed for drinking coffee, and is as good as any cup. As is the design of the cup, allowing baristas to pour perfectly. And the glass build ensures they are odour and stain resistant. That’s before we even begin with the sustainable qualities of KeepCup. Aside from their more obvious positives, modular design makes them easily repairable, so you never need to buy a new one. But not only are their cups environmentally sound. The company’s commitment to low impact manufacturing extends beyond this, and they source their materials and expertise locally where possible. Both co founder Jamie Forsyth and Abigail, now Managing Director, are vocal advocates for environmental issues in Australia. How Many People Use Keep Cups?![]() First sold at an underground design market in Melbourne, KeepCup have now sold over 8 million cups in 65 countries worldwide. They have set up local manufacturing rings in the UK, exporting their business philosophy to the other side of the world in the process. Today KeepCup are not only seen all over the world, they have saved countless millions of disposable cups from landfill, and inspired a wave of similar products. Riding on the popularity of artisan coffee, they created a product that not only changed how we drink coffee, but how we saw the world around us and our place in it. For many, KeepCup is a byword for disposable cup, such is their impact on the coffee, and wider, world. See Alternative Brewing‘s full range of KeepCups here. The post Why Were KeepCups Invented? appeared first on Alternative Brewing. from https://alternativebrewing.com.au/why-keep-cups-invented/ Since its inception in 2014, Frank Green has gone on to become synonymous with reusable coffee cups and water bottles. The Frank Green reusable cup has quickly become one of Australia’s favourites, and their growth over the last 6 years is phenomenal. Maybe that’s not surprising when you consider that the percentage of Australians using reusable cups over that period has risen from 1% to 6-7%. But with so many reusable cup brands on the market, why are these guys’ plastic and stainless steel cups preferred by so many? Many a Frank Green review will attest to their excellent performance and design. But that’s not all. The Frank Green cup is also 100% sustainable, made from locally sourced materials, and represents the best of Australian design and manufacturing. Below we’ll tell you what’s so great about them, and how they came to be. Is Frank Green Australian?![]() Frank Green is made where the company was founded, in Melbourne. The company is 100% Australian and is a genuine success story, having seen 400% growth year on year since they began. This is due to the quality of their product of course, with many consumers and experts considering it the best reusable coffee cup Australia currently produces. But there are many other reasons why Frank Green reusable cups have become so popular. One of their major advantages when starting out was their ability to locally source materials, with the green plastics used to make the Frank keep cup coming from just down the road. The factory which produces the green plastics for Frank Green used to manufacture cars, and they have applied their materials expertise to develop a plastic which is stain and odour free, and totally recyclable. No other company uses this material in their coffee cups. This commitment to sourcing locally not only increased their speed to market but helped boost the local economy. But their impact is now much wider than that, with Frank Green stockists Australia wide emerging as their popularity grows. Who is Frank Green?Well, the straight answer to that question is that Frank Green is, in fact, Benjamin Young, a serial entrepreneur from Melbourne. Passionate about both coffee and the environment, he thinks of Frank Green as a philosophy, not a person. He wanted to start a company that reflected his passion for sustainability, environmental protection and the local economy. So what better way than to make the best travel mugs Australia has to offer as a result. Alongside their green cup of course is the equally ubiquitous frank green water bottle, and the product range continues to expand. Tie-ins with major names like Disney have done nothing to dent their reputation, and they seem to be as robust a business as their stainless steel coffee mug might suggest. Are Frank Green Cups Good?![]() The Frank Green keep cup is popular for good reason. No other cup can match it for portability, insulation and durability. Frank Green coffee cups have something to suit everyone. And not all of their cups are the same. They have a stainless steel coffee cup with ceramic inner, designed for those who want something extra durable or simply prefer not to drink coffee from plastic. The ceramic reusable coffee cup is one of their most popular products. But they also produce a cup made from a unique and 100% recyclable co-polymer. This same material is used to make the frank green smartcup, which allows you to pay for your coffee with the cup itself! Smart tech built into the cup means you can use it at any cafe using the CafePay system. The cups provide great insulation and are designed with a curved edge just like a good coffee cup, so the experience of drinking from a frank green reusable coffee cup is just as good. The spill resistant lid is super reliable, making them a perfect choice for commuters or for long trips. To activate the flow of coffee, simply press down on the button, and then press again when you are done to reseal. It sounds so simple, but it’s totally effective, and just one of the reasons this cup was voted best reusable coffee cup australia 2019. They are super easy to clean, designed so you can access all parts of the cup easily. Only the lid mechanism might occasionally need unscrewing and cleaning. Frank Green’s water bottles are also available in Stainless Steel / Ceramic and plastic, and there is a water bottle which incorporates the Smart Pay system too. Is Frank Green Sustainable?Yes, Frank Green is about as sustainable as you can get! First of all, think about all of those takeaway coffee cups. Using reusable takeaway coffee cups can save millions of paper cups being used each year. As not all cups can be recycled, many will end in landfill, or worse by the side of the road. ![]() If more people choose reusable cups, then less trees need to be felled to produce paper cups, so not only do we save waste but help preserve our woodlands. Straight away Frank Green are on to a winner. But they don’t stop there: their commitment to sustainability can be seen all through their operations. Choosing to work with and promote local businesses not only helps maintain the local economy, it lowers travel costs and has a significant impact on their carbon footprint. The Frank Green stainless steel cup and it’s plastic counterpart are the very best of Australian design and manufacture, and produced by a company who are proud to be Australian. Their cups are market leaders in sustainable reusable cups, and this ethos runs right to the core of the company. By sourcing locally and wisely they created not just a market leading cup, but a powerful brand. Using advanced and 100% recyclable plastics, their cups are super tough, stain and odour resistant, and help to promote environmental health and the local economy. There’s not a lot to not like about Frank Green Cups. Check out our full range to see if there’s a Frank Green cup that suits you. The post How Frank Green’s Reusable Coffee Cup Was Created appeared first on Alternative Brewing. from https://alternativebrewing.com.au/frank-green-reusable-cup-history/ The Ultimate Pour Over Coffee Guide For 2020Brewing great pour over coffee is an art form, and depending on how fastidious your approach is, can require immense levels of dedication and detail – which is part of the attraction for so many. When talking about brewing the perfect cup of coffee, we are describing the ideal extraction of those lust worthy flavours, from freshly ground coffee, with utmost precision. In our quest to convert the BH team to pour over snobs, we enlisted the help of Australia’s ‘Alternative Brewing‘ specialists. Let’s dive into the ultimate pour over coffee guide. What makes a great pour over coffee?Technique and tools. Technique will be the Achilles’ heel of making good pour over coffee, but because each tool requires a slightly different brewing method, we’ll jump into that further down the list. So, let’s begin with the essential tools (and ingredients) you’ll need to excel at brewing coffee and enjoy your new-found hobby. Head Over to the full article with our friends at BossHuntingHERE! — Read More on The Ultimate Pour Over Coffee Guide!The post The Ultimate Pour Over Coffee Guide For 2020 appeared first on Alternative Brewing. from https://alternativebrewing.com.au/the-ultimate-pour-over-coffee-guide-for-2020brewing-great-pour-over-coffee/
Cold-brew coffee not only offers a fruitier, sweeter alternative to traditional brews: its low acid content is much easier on the stomach, meaning cold brew has made coffee accessible to a whole swathe of people who might otherwise need to abstain. So, not only delicious but a true coffee for the people. Or at least it would be, if only you didn’t need a multi-thousand dollar drip tower in your living room, right? Wrong. Cold brewing, even in it’s more technical drip form, can be done at home, and easily too, with a cold brew coffee maker. With cold brew and cold drip coffee makers, the key ingredient is patience. Read on to find out what’s so great about cold brew, and everything you need to know about how to make your own cold brew coffee at home. What is Special About Cold Brew Coffee?Believe it or not, cold brewed coffee has been produced in some form since the 1600’s. Originally conceived to save space so that Dutch sailors could still enjoy coffee on their voyages, there are mentions of cold brew coffee concentrates on sale throughout the 1800s across the world. For more information on the history of cold brew check out our article.
Well, first there’s the taste. It is sweeter, lighter and less acidic and bitter than hot brewed coffee. The reason for this is that cold brew uses time to extract the flavour from the coffee, whereas traditional brew methods use heat. The acids and oils that can make coffee bitter or sour extract far less at lower temperatures, meaning the sweet, floral and fruity notes of the coffee are not obscured. This means it’s easier to create a drink with a more balanced and complex flavour profile. The lower amounts of acid also mean it’s easier on the stomach, and so many people who might avoid normal hot brew find they can enjoy cold brew without issues. It’s also lighter in terms of the caffeine hit. Properly brewed and stored, it lasts for up to 10 days, which means you can brew a batch for the whole week if you wish! Generally, cold brew coffee is made in a concentrate which can be diluted or used in various recipes (we’ve included some below!), which is normally diluted 50/50 with water to serve. Is Cold Brew Coffee Stronger Than Regular Coffee?The amount of coffee used vs water in many cold brew recipes would imply that cold brew is strong, but the much lower rate of extraction balances this to some extent. In terms of caffeine most concentrates will be deliberately at least twice as strong as normal coffee, but as they are watered down to serve the amount is roughly the same. You can make it stronger simply by adding more coffee if you wish. Unlike with hot coffee, adding coffee won’t make the coffee overly harsh or bitter, you’ll just end up with a stronger concentrate. Also, even though cold brew is as (or more) caffeinated as normal coffee, it is released into the system much more slowly, meaning cold brew is less likely to give you the jitters if you drink too much! Unlike, say iced coffee. How is Cold Brew Coffee Made?Cold brew coffee has two variations: drip and immersion. Although they vary in method quite dramatically, the basic principle is the same: by using time instead of heat to extract the coffee from the grounds, they produce coffee that is sweeter and lighter, as the lack of heat means less oils and acids are taken into the final cup.
Place 1 cup coffee beans, coarsely ground in a mason jar. Add 5 cups filtered water. Give this a good stir. Steep in the fridge for 15 hours. Then use cheesecloth, a paper coffee filter or a fine sieve to strain the coffee grounds. And your coffee is brewed. Serve with equal parts water, and add ice and milk to taste. It really is that simple. Of course, as you learn there are many things you can tweak and improve as you go. Mastering cold brew might take a little while, but getting started couldn’t be simpler. What Grind to Use for Cold Brew Coffee?For cold brew you want the coarsest grind possible. For both methods the water has all the time in the world to work on the coffee and so there is no need for medium or coarse grinds, as these are designed to maximise the amount of surface area that is exposed to the coffee for short, hot brewing. If you use a medium or coarse grind for cold brew you will end up with a bitter, over-extracted coffee, which is exactly what you are trying to avoid. What is the ratio for cold brew coffee?
The amounts you want to use do vary depending on the method though so here’s a few different suggestions – you should consult the instructions for advice if using a dedicated cold brewer too: DESCRIPTION COFFEE TO WATER RATIO General ratio 1:5 Batch Brew and cold brew concentrate ratio 1:2 High strength French Press brew 1:7 Low strength French Press brew 1:12 How Long Does It Take to Cold Brew Coffee?No matter what method you’re using, preparing all of your equipment should take you next to no time at all. After all, all you need to do is grind your coffee nice and coarse, and add that and the water to your mason jar or cold brewer, and that’s it. Most of the time the coffee’s brewing you will either be busy doing something else, asleep, or a combination of both. That’s the beauty of cold brew – all you need is a little patience. Once you’re all set up, a drip cold brew should take 2-3 hours, whereas an immersion needs way more – from 12-15 hours. How Long Should You Let Cold Brew Sit?Depending on your method, and the equipment you’re using, you’ll need to steep your coffee grounds from between 12-15 hours for immersion, or 2-3 hours for drip. Ideally, immersion cold brew should be steeped in the fridge, but if you’re making at home it’s possible that you can’t fit the brewer into your model at home. If so it’s fine to brew at room temperature, but try to make sure you leave it somewhere relatively cool and definitely not in direct sunlight, or you might start hot brewing your cold brew. This could make your coffee taste bitter, which is exactly what we don’t want from our cold brew. Why Does My Cold Brew Taste Bad?
If your coffee is bitter however, this might mean that you have over-extracted it, and you will need to take some time off for your next brew to see if this solves the problem. You might need to experiment with the timings a little to get it spot on, as each bean will be different, and each method will have its own peculiarities. Cold Brew Vs. Cold Drip Coffee Makers: What’s the Difference?Cold drip coffee makers have one major advantage over immersion brewers: they are quicker. That’s because they are set up to allow water to flow over the coffee, meaning they extract the flavour faster. Cold drip coffee makers have three (but sometimes two) chambers. Number one contains the water to be dripped, and below this is the chamber containing the coffee grounds. Below this is a chamber to collect the extracted cold brew. Cold drip coffee needs a regular flow of water, with a drip rate of 1 drip every 1-4 secs. The longer the gap between drips, the slower the brew. Even so, cold drip makers will normally produce a batch in around 3-5 hours, compared to 12-15 for immersive brewers. Cold drip coffee is generally more intense and concentrated than cold brew. Cold brew is lighter and more floral, and whereas cold brew will typically be served diluted to 300ml, a cold drip would normally be served more like an espresso, at 45ml. COld drip, although more intense, is still sweeter and less acidic than espresso. Cold Brew and Cold Drip Coffee MakersBruer Cold Brew Coffee Maker![]() The Bruer Cold Brew System is a fully functional drip brewer which is designed for the home. Unlike the huge centerpiece drip brewers you might have seen in coffee shops, the Breur is compact and easy to find space for. It uses the exact same science as other drip brewers, and in 3 to 12 hours yields up to 600 ml of concentrate. With variable drip speeds, you have the flexibility to experiment and find your favourite brew. The bottom chamber collects the cold brew concentrate as it slowly drains from the coffee bed and through the filter, meaning to serve you simply unscrew the top and pour. You can learn exactly how it works with our Bruer Cold Brew Guide. Hario Mizudushi Cold Brewing Pot![]() Hario have been producing world-beating coffee equipment for decades, so it’s no surprise that they also make an excellent and very affordable immersion cold brewer. The Hario Mizudashi Cold Brew Pot is that brewer, and it doesn’t disappoint. Brewing with the Hario couldn’t be simpler: simply place the ground coffee in the holder, and fill the carafe with water, and wait. Here’s a brief recipe: Coarsely grind 80g of coffee into the mesh filter. Add 1 L of cold, clean water to the pot. Let it steep for 12-18 hours in the fridge. The carafe has a mesh filter built-in with 60-micron holes, too small to allow coffee grounds to enter your final brew. Once your brew is finished, you simply remove the coffee filter and leave in the fridge ready to serve. It’s easy to clean and should last a lifetime. Looking for more Hario options? See our review of Hario Cold Brew Coffee Makers.
Toddy Cold Brewing System![]() The Toddy Cold Brewing System is not only super easy to use: you can cold brew tea AND coffee, so whatever cold brew you fancy this puts control in your hands. Designed with beginners to cold brew in mind, this all-in-one cold brew system produces stellar coffee and tea with a very straightforward process that anyone can follow. The filter is built-in, so with the Toddy Cold Brew System all you need to do is unplug the stopper when the time is up. Your coffee or tea will decant into the carafe through the inbuilt filter, so you can then simply remove the brewer and you’re ready to serve.
The Dripster Cold Brew Coffee Maker![]() The Dripster Cold Brew Coffee Maker’s innovative design brings drip brewing to the home. Compact design means the drip tower is no longer the preserve of the hipster cafe – this is small enough to fit on any kitchen side, yet still produces 600ml of cold drip coffee per use. The water tank is made with durable food-grade plastic and the carafe made from borosilicate Pyrex glass, and both are completely transparent. Combined with the sleek design, this is as good to watch as any drip tower, and with the fully adjustable dripper valve fully visible you can see your coffee brew drip by drip. And as this is a drip and not immersion brewing, you can go from brew to cup in as little as 2-3 hours. The Dripster comes with a permanent stainless steel filter, meaning there is no need to buy replacements. Simply remove and clean between uses. 100% sustainable, the mesh filter eliminates paper waste, is easy to clean, and gives you a brew with a rich flavour and smooth body.
How to Make Cold Brew Coffee in French PressMaybe you’re into the idea of cold brew, but you don’t want to commit just yet? Well, if you already have a french press you can get started making your own cold brew already without making any investment. All you need is: Your French Press 60g of Coffee 500g of Cold Water Coffee Grinder Pour Over Cone + Filter Second Carafe / Mason Jar For the second carafe and the pour-over cone, anything you have lying around will do. A coffee filter in a kitchen funnel will be fine, and any food-safe jar can be used as the second or final carafe. Grind your beans coarsely, and add the coffee to the french press. Then pour the water in slowly making sure to saturate all of the coffee grounds. Wait 5 mins, and stir to make sure any grounds that have floated to the top are submerged. Add the top and plunger but do not plunge yet: set aside for 12 hours. After 12 hours, plunge the french press slowly. Then pour the coffee through the pour-over cone into your second carafe, to filter out any remaining coffee grounds. And that’s it! This recipe makes a concentrate at a 1:8 ratio, so you will want to dilute 50/50 with water to serve. The full recipe and more can be found in our guide to how to make cold brew in a french press. Do You Need Special Coffee for Cold Brew?
Avoid using cheap beans though if you can. The beauty of cold brew is the gentle extraction method really brings out the more complex notes in the coffee, so you want a bean that has something to say for itself. Although cold brew made with average beans will still be light and refreshing, you’re missing out on the real joy of this method. What Coffee is Best for Cold Brew?There is no straight answer to this question as it will depend on your taste. If you’re already well versed in coffee then you probably know which beans you prefer: however, with cold brew it might be worth branching out and trying something different, as what works with hot water doesn’t always translate to cold brew. All beans have their own distinct characteristics. Generally speaking, for a stronger, more full-flavoured brew Central or South American Beans are great. African beans will be fruitier or have a more wine-like profile. Trying out a variety of beans from different regions will help you isolate what works for you when cold brewing. Immersion Cold Brew
See our instructions above in this article, as well as instructions for french press cold brew: both are immersive techniques. Some bespoke cold brewers come with fitted filters, removing the need for to even filter the grounds from your final cup. Immersion cold brew is one of the most accessible types of brewing – the only thing you really need is patience. To learn all about immersive brewing techniques, check out our immersion cold brew guide. The Best Cold Brew Coffee RecipesNot only is cold brew super easy to make, it’s versatile enough to lend a hand in all kinds of different drinks and treats. Before we get to that though, here’s a few extra tips to keep in mind when making your own cold brew (which I didn’t find space for yet). Strain slowly.When you strain out your coffee grounds, you need to be patient to get the best flavour. If you feel like the amount is overwhelming your filter, slow down and strain slowly and gradually in batches if you need to. If you rush, you will end up with a bitter and lifeless cup, but your reward for patience will be a brew full of the complex fruity notes which you expect from a cold brew.
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Hand Grinder | Length (cm) Circumference Weight (g) | Burr Size | Steel or Ceramic | Catcher Volume | Stepped/Stepless | Materials |
Espresso or Filter
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Rhinowares Compact | 15 | 14.5 | 260 | 35mm | ceramic | 25g | Stepped | steel | Filter |
Rhinowares Grinder | 18 | 16 | 313 | 35mm | ceramic | 45g | Stepped | steel | Filter |
Porlex Tall | 18 | 16 | 278 | 35mm | ceramic | 45g | Stepped | steel | Filter |
Porlex Mini | 15 | 14.5 | 242 | 35mm | ceramic | 30g | Stepped | steel | Filter |
Hario Skerton Ceramic | 20 | 29 | 460 | 35mm | ceramic | 140g | Stepped | plastic, glass | Filter |
Hario Mill Smart | 15 | 17 | 227 | 35mm | ceramic | 40g | Stepped | clear Plastic | Filter |
Hario Skerton Pro | 18 | 20 | 482 | 35mm | ceramic | 140g | Stepped | plastic, glass | Filter |
Comandante C40 MK3 | 15.5 | 20 | 628 | 35mm | steel | 40g | Stepped | metal, glass | Both |
Lido 2 | 35 | 23 | 1400 | 45mm | steel | 70g | Stepless | metal, plastic | Espresso |
Lido 3 | 35 | 24 | 1095 | 45mm | steel | 80g | Stepless | metal, plastic | Both |
Helor 101 | 15.5 | 17 | 596 | 35mm | steel | 35g | Stepless | metal | Both |
ROK | 28 | 21 | 2.7kg | 45mm | steel | 65g | Steeped | Aluminium | Both |
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What makes the perfect espresso drink? Some say it’s the perfect texture, others say it’s the ideal temperature, but most coffee aficionados know that the key to the perfect espresso drink is beautifully foamed or frothed milk. With some practice, anyone can become a professional espresso and frothed drink maker. No need to frequent your local cafe for the perfect cappuccino, macchiato, tea latte, or espresso, this article has some great advice on how to make the perfect drink with beautifully frothed milk from the comfort of your home.
We’ve compiled some suggestions for our favorite espresso machines and milk frothers with affordability and features in mind. Frothing the perfect espresso drink can be a straightforward and simple project when using an espresso machine with a milk frother, and identifying the perfect machine for you will bring professional quality frothed drinks to the comfort of your home.
No need to give yourself a headache trying to figure out how to make a coffee latte. If you are wondering how to froth milk for coffee, or, how to froth milk from home, check out our step by step guide on finding the perfect espresso machine and using it to create the ideal frothed drink.
How To Froth Milk Properly
Frothing milk with an espresso machine can be super easy. Many modern machines (especially automatic machines) come with a steam wand positioned on the side of the machine. Some people may wonder how to make frothy milk with a steam wand. The steam wand works by forcing steam into the milk and gently applying pressure and warmth. The wand adds air to the milk which causes the delectable frothy sensation.
When frothing, drink makers may also need a small metal pitcher. Milk frothing pitchers are available with some advanced espresso machines, or they can be found in stores that sell accessories for espresso machines. Milk frothing pitchers are made to work perfectly with a milk steamer wand, and they offer additional control for the steam wand.
Achieving the perfect coffee froth may vary based on drink size and preference. Directions may vary based on the drink, but by gaining a basic understanding of a consistent technique, you will be able to figure out the steps for making your ideal espresso. We have included a step by step guide to successfully creating the ideal, delicious, well-frothed drink for you and your guests. This is the barista method. It is is used by many skilled coffee maker professionals and it’s the perfect step by step guide to learning how to froth milk with a steam wand.
Choosing Your Milk Frothing Machine
Before beginning to figure out how to make a cappuccino, and before you begin frothing milk, you’ll need to consider what type of machine you would like to purchase to create your perfect drink. Throughout this article, we’ll mention some of our favorite coffee machines and some of the best methods of texturizing milk. Need more information on automatic coffee machines? See our guide on how to pick the best automatic coffee machine for your home.
For starters, the Cafello Tutto Coffee Machine is a great option for creating a delicious milk foam drink. The all in one machine foams like a stovetop milk foamer and acts as an efficient coffee grinder. The Cafello is recommended for bars and restaurants. Known for its seamless use and custom design, Cafello stands out on the market because of it’s automated the tamping process and it’s a touchscreen display. The Cafello is equipped with a hot water outlet and a steam wand, it’s a great option if you’re wondering how to make foam.
On the other hand, The Bezzera BZ10 is perfect for a household. The machine is perfect for an average-sized kitchen or even very small spaces. The 1.5L heat exchanger boiler is perfect for creating lots of steam, it allows you to brew coffee and froth milk at the same time. The Bezzera has a unique stainless steel design that can complement any kitchen. When purchasing your machine, think of your needs, are you supplying a restaurant or a kitchen? Are you looking for something that includes a handheld milk frother for specialty drinks, like cappuccinos and espressos?
If you’re looking for value you may want to consider the Nuova Simonelli Oscar II. The Nuova is known as one of the best value for your dollar. This may be the perfect frothing machine equipped with a 58mm group head and a 2L copper heat exchanger boiler and a lever-operated steam wand.
In order to begin creating your coffee foam, you will need to start with a ½ cup of milk. Be sure to use cold milk for the best results, also adjust the amount of milk used to match what you would like to add to your drink. You will also need your metal milk frothing pitcher for the best results.
Step 1. Begin by pouring a fresh batch of cold milk into your milk frothing pitcher. Feel free to use whatever type of milk-based on your preference, keep in mind that some types may provide a different milk texture for your frothy coffee.
Step 2. Time to prepare your milk frother machine. Engage the steam wand located on the side of your espresso machine. Soon you will be enjoying delicious frothy steamed milk.
Step 3. Remember, the steam wand is your milk steamer frother. With the steam wand, you’ll be able to create the perfect steamed milk. Place the steam wand into the metal pitcher of milk. Allow the wand to remain just below the surface. Your steam wand is the key of how to steam milk.
Step 4. One of the keys of how to make a latte is the stirring. Place the steam wand near the side of the metal pitcher of milk. Use the wand to stir and create a vortex in your cup of milk.
Step 5. Pick up your metal pitcher and shift it to elevate the steam wand, or move it lower or away from the edge, the point is to bring air into the milk and reduce large bubbles making them smaller.
Step 6. Check your mixture. The mixture should have begun to froth and increased in size. You can measure your mixture size using a latte vs cappuccino system. Your mixture should be approximately double the volume of a cappuccino and about ½ the size of a latte. Once your mixture has reached the ideal size, remove the steam wand (or milk frother) from the metal pitcher.
Step 7. When the frothing process is in action, you’ll notice that the texture of the milk is very smooth. The milk should not be pixelated or grainy. The mixture should resemble melted ice cream.
Step 8. Quickly pour the foamed milk from your milk steamer into your coffee, cappuccino, or drink of choice. Leave a little bit of milk in the pitcher. Feel free to get creative at this point and research some ways of creating latte art.
If you’re looking for some of the best results when searching for a coffee frother, you may want to consider the Rancilio Silvia V5 Coffee Machine, this machine. The Rancilio has an easy control panel which creates a simple and easy usage process, perfect for beginner frothers. The frothing process is enhanced with the Rancilio Silvia, it includes a steam wand which is super flexible with bending power that steams milk from almost any position. The Rancilio stands out on the market because of its affordable price, it is the perfect answer to the question of how to froth milk properly.
Get Frothy Milk With The Bellman Steamer
The ideal steamer for home and on-the-go is the Bellman Espresso Steamer. The steamer will keep you equipped with freshly steamed coffee milk at your disposal. The Bellman steamer is the perfect tool to use if you are a beginner milk foamer. Use the steamer with gas, ceramic, electric and most stovetops. We have included some basic steps explaining how to create the perfect frothed beverage using the Bellman Steamer.
Step 1. Fill your steamer approximately ½ way with water and shut the lid. Place the heat on high and begin creating your beverage.
Step 2. Listen for the sound of steam releasing from the valve of your Bellman steamer machine. Once your steam begins to release, begin to turn the knob to allow pressures to release and turn off the machine.
Step 3. Pick up the steam wand and place it into your milk and begin steaming (turn on the steamer.)
Step 4. Use the tip of the wand to activate the surface of the milk for about 4 seconds and plunge the wand halfway into the milk. Shift the metal pitcher to create a swirling pattern in the milk.
Step 5. Allow the milk to reach approximately 60 degrees Celsius. Next, shut off your steamer. Be sure to always clean the wand after use.
Step 6. Choose your beverage of choice and put your deliciously smooth, well-frothed milk in and enjoy.
The pros of the Bellman are its portability and durability. The device is built with stainless steel and bakelite. If you’re looking for a larger machine to use in a restaurant or professional space, you may want to consider the Bellman Stovetop Steamer. The steamer is known to create a delectable cafe-style steamed milk drink. When you ask about the frothing meaning, you are asking about a machine like the Bellman Stovetop Steamer, the steamer features a double nozzle wand that is specially designed to create the ideal delicious, creamy, and silky milk. The Bellman steamer is also super affordable and it works on any stovetop. The steamer is at top value with durable construction and a practical pressure release valve.
Froth Milk On A Budget
Cafe-style coffee may be more affordable than you think. There are several brands on the markets that sell durable machines that include steam wands for frothing. If you’re looking to froth milk on a budget we’ve got some suggestions for you.
The Cafello Tutto Junior is a mini version of the Tutto. The small-sized machine offers all of the favorite features of a traditional sized Tutto machine and it is perfect for use at home. The Tutto junior is most valued for its ability to create delicious creamy espresso shots. Frothing is easy with the Tutto Junior’s milk steam wand which provides the ideal texture for frothy milk. The Tutto includes an easy use touch screen monitor and it is available on sale now!
Another great option for budget milk foaming is the Quick Mill Pippa. The Pippa features a lovely stainless steel body and an affordable price. The machine is easy to use and it’s a perfect choice for frothing milk.
The Ascaso Basic is great for beginner baristas. At an affordable price, coffee makers can brew an excellent coffee with a machine made of heat resistant plastic. The Ascaso is especially known for durability and its powerful steam wand that is known to make the ideal frothed milk. The machine also comes with a cup warmer and 2L water tank all for an affordable price.
Shopping for a milk steamer on a budget is great, especially for beginner baristas. There are several affordable machines that include effective steam wands that produce the perfect steamed milk. If you’re looking for a more enhanced experience that could be used in a restaurant or a cafe setting, you may want to consider investing in a machine with more advanced features.
Creating the ideal frothed milk for coffee is easier than you may think. Head over to Alternative Brewing for the best selection of espresso machines that feature some of the best steam wands in the industry.
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