Roasted Coffee Beans: How to Roast Your Own Coffee Beans
October 9, 2010 by admin
Filed under General, Making Coffee
If you are a serious coffee lover you may soon think about roasting your own coffee beans. Making your own roasted coffee beans gives you the chance to blend the coffee bean varieties of your choice. It also allows you to experiment with the roasting process to determine the roast level that you like best.
As a rule, the darker you roast the coffee bean, the stronger and richer the flavor. A dark roast has a harsher flavor and may have a slight burnt taste. For coffee with a more mellow taste, the coffee beans are medium roasted. Many people prefer the medium roast as it preserves the coffee’s natural flavors. In contrast, the darker roasts tend to burn off some of the coffee’s natural oils and caffeine.
Most commercial roasted coffee beans in the United States are roasted to a light roast known as American. As long as you use good quality coffee beans, you will be able to get a palatable cup of coffee from a light roast. Coffee lovers, however, prefer the natural and true coffee flavor of medium roast.
Lower quality coffee beans can actually benefit from a darker roast. The burnt flavor in the roasting process adds to the bean’s own flavors. The dark roasting process improves the flavor of average grade coffee beans.
Roasting your own coffee beans will allow you to enjoy a good cup of coffee at one-third to one-half the price of roasted coffee beans that you get from the local coffee shop.
To roast your own coffee beans, you need green coffee beans that you can obtain from the local coffee store or online. Preheat your oven to 500°F and spread the raw beans one layer deep on a cookie sheet. Place the coffee beans in the middle of the preheated oven. After 8 to 10 minutes you will hear a crackling sound and there will be some smoke with a coffee aroma. Continue roasting for 2-3 minutes or until the beans reach the desired shade.
Remove the roasted coffee beans from the oven and pour the roasted coffee beans into a metal colander. Allow the beans to cool completely. You can now use the beans or you can store them in an airtight container.
You can find many sources of green coffee beans on the internet. Find a reliable supplier who can provide different varieties of quality coffee beans. Raw coffee beans can last for years if stored properly. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Coffee loses acidity as it ages and its flavor becomes mellow.
Buy only quality coffee beans that have been properly processed and stored. You can roast your coffee beans at home with your own home coffee roaster and enjoy a rich cup of coffee prepared just the way you like it.
Home Coffee Roaster: Roast Your Own Coffee Beans
October 6, 2010 by admin
Filed under General, Making Coffee
Most coffee drinkers prefer to leave the roasting of coffee beans to the local coffee house. However, you may want to get involved in all aspects of brewing a perfect cup of coffee. This includes roasting coffee beans at home exactly to your taste. To do this you can use a home coffee roaster or even a hot air popcorn popper.
The process of roasting coffee beans has become easier now that home coffee roasters are readily available. Commercial coffee roasters come with a hefty price tag. In addition, it takes experience to ensure that the coffee beans retain their best flavor and aroma during the roasting process.
Some people, however, are undaunted by these challenges. Not only do they want to choose the type of coffee bean to brew, but they also want to roast their coffee beans to obtain the exact flavor they desire. With a coffee roaster for the home, it is possible to control the temperature and the length of roasting time.
Only one aroma can rival that of coffee brewing, and that’s the fragrance of roasting coffee beans. You can roast coffee beans on pans or cookie sheets in the oven. Some people have successfully roasted beans in a pan on the stovetop or a hot air popcorn popper. But if you’re serious about roasting coffee beans, you should invest in a good home coffee roaster. There are different models suitable for novice as well as experienced users.
Coffee-tech/Brioso FZ-RR 700 Home Roaster
The FZ-RR 700 is available in two versions: motorized and manual. It is designed for use on a gas stove top. Constructed of heavy duty material, the spherical copper drum is positioned directly over the open flame. The roaster is easy to use and provides even distribution of the coffee beans and excellent control over the roasting process.
This home coffee roaster allows you to roast up to half a pound of coffee beans. The controls are very easy to use and provide complete control over both temperature and roasting time. You can produce roasted beans ranging from light American style roast to dark Espresso roast. The clear roast chamber lets you view the coffee beans as they roast. This durable machine is built to last and delivers excellent roast quality.
With an affordable price tag of around $70, this home coffee roaster is a good entry level roaster for the novice. You can roast 3.5 ounces of green coffee beans, enough for a 10-cup pot of brew. It has a quick roast time of about 10 minutes so you must watch carefully to get the roast that you want.
A Guide to Wholesale Gourmet Coffee
October 5, 2010 by admin
Filed under General, Making Coffee, Types of Coffee
Coffee lovers know that there are dozens of varieties of the coffee bean. They all have their own characteristic aroma, body and taste. Even coffee beans belonging to the same variety may have different nuances depending on where they were grown and how they were roasted.
Coffee beans that have been specially cultivated, harvested and roasted are the basis for gourmet coffee. This special blend of coffee need not be expensive if you know where to buy wholesale gourmet coffee.
Coffee is one of the most popular beverages in the world. It is an excellent source of antioxidants that help combat a number of life-threatening diseases. This rich beverage can be enjoyed alone or in the company of close friends or large groups.
Anyone can enjoy the taste of a good cup of coffee, but not everyone can have the privilege of experiencing the luxurious taste of handpicked gourmet coffee coming from select coffee plantations located in different countries around the world.
There are basically two types of coffee: Robusta and Arabica. Robusta has a neutral to harsh taste but has higher caffeine content than Arabica. It also has a fuller body. Arabica, on the other hand, is referred to as a “gourmet” coffee. It has a richer aroma and taste. Arabica beans can be blended with Robusta to create a richer, full-bodied cup of coffee. Robusta is often used in espresso coffee. In terms of price, Robusta beans are generally cheaper.
Gourmet coffee is a variety or blend of coffee with superior flavor and aroma. It is meticulously grown and cultivated. The coffee beans are handpicked and specially selected to get only the best quality. It is more expensive than regular coffee. However, you can get wholesale gourmet coffee at a more affordable price from a distributor. The coffee is sold in large quantities but often at a lower price.
Gourmet coffee may also be defined as such because of difficulty of growing or processing the coffee. Jamaica Blue Mountain and Kona coffees are highly prized gourmet coffees that only grow in very small regions.
Kopi Luwak or civet coffee is one of the most expensive gourmet coffees. The coffee beans are eaten and excreted by a species of civet cat. This gives the coffee a unique flavor. Kopi Luwak may cost hundred of US dollars a pound.
If you want to purchase wholesale gourmet coffee you must contact a reputable coffee supplier. In general, large food wholesalers sell different types of regular and gourmet coffee but their prices may be relatively high. Small producers, on the other hand, tend to offer better deals but have only one or two varieties. You must find a coffee supplier who can offer a number of different brands at low prices.
Before ordering wholesale gourmet coffee from a distributor, you must research the company and verify that it is reputable. Compare the prices offered by different distributors to be able to get the best price for premium coffee.
Brew your next cup of gourmet coffee with the Senseo gourmet coffee machine!
Senseo SL7810/65 Single-Serve Gourmet Coffee Machine
October 4, 2010 by admin
Filed under General, Making Coffee
With the Senseo SL7810/65 Single-Serve Gourmet Coffee Machine, brewing a single serving of freshly brewed gourmet has never been easier. Using high quality coffee pods, this coffee machine consistently brews a perfect cup of coffee with a unique frothy layer at the touch of a button.
Coffee lovers can enjoy their favorite blends and flavors including Mild, Medium, Dark, Decaffeinated, Paris Vanilla Bistro, Vienna Hazelnut Waltz, Senseo Cappuccino and many more in less than a minute.
Product Description
The Senseo Single-Serve coffee maker brews up to 8 ounces of coffee using pre-measured sealed coffee pods in a variety of flavors. Simple push-button controls are used for power and size selection. You don’t waste time grinding your coffee and there is no flavor cross-over.
The coffee maker comes with two pod holders: a shallow holder good for one coffee pod for one cup, and a deeper filter for two pods that can make two cups or one 8-ounce mug.
The machine is easy to operate. Just fill the removable reservoir with fresh water, insert the pods and lock the lid into place. Push the “on/off” button and the one- or two-cup button to start brewing.
You can use any 4-ounce cup or 8-ounce mug to catch the coffee when it’s done. All removable parts such as the pod holders, water reservoir, coffee spout, metal cup tray and plastic drip tray are dishwasher-safe.
Why You’ll Like It
If you only need a cup or two of freshly brewed gourmet coffee, then the Senseo Single-Serve Gourmet Coffee Machine is exactly what you need. It’s convenient, hassle free and extremely quick. You can brew a great-tasting cup of coffee just the way you like it. Best of all, you can do all this at the touch of a button.
Because it uses pre-measured coffee pods, there’s practically no cleanup needed. You can choose your favorite blend or flavor and have a perfect cup of coffee in seconds. The coffee maker is available in cobalt blue, black, white, and red to match your kitchen décor.
The Senseo coffee maker is an exceptionally good machine. It offers convenience without sacrificing taste so you get coffee that’s full of flavor every time. Instead of heading for the nearest coffee shop, use your Senseo gourmet coffee machine and save loads of money.
Keep It Working Like a Charm
As with all coffee makers, you have to clean the machine every 2 to 3 months to remove mineral build-up in the machine that could interfere with the taste. Run the machine with one part vinegar and one part water, and then flush out with pure water. A water softener or filter may help keep the coffee maker cleaner longer.
The Senseo Single-Serve Gourmet Coffee Machine is available at Amazon.com. Order it now and enjoy a good cup of gourmet coffee anytime you want it.
Bodum Chambord 12-Cup 51-Ounce Coffee Press
October 1, 2010 by admin
Filed under About Coffee, General, Making Coffee
Coffee connoisseurs are always on the lookout for the best coffee beans and the best method to make that perfect brew. There are a number of ways to brew a cup of java including automatic coffee makers, espresso machines, stove top, vacuum and French press. It is largely due to Bodum that more and more people are becoming aware of the advantages of using a French press coffee maker. One of their most popular models is the Bodum Chambord 12-Cup/51-Ounce Coffee Press.
Product Description
The classic design of the Chambord coffee press has not changed since it was first introduced by Bodum in 1982. With this particular model, you can brew 2 to 12 cups or 51 ounces of coffee in four minutes. The coffee press features a polished stainless steel lid and holder.
The durable glass carafe comes with a stay-cool black handle and knob. The ultra fine filter is made of stainless steel. You can also use this coffee press to brew tea.
Why a French Coffee Press Makes a Better Cup of Coffee
The simplicity of a French coffee press is what makes it the best way to brew coffee with a full-bodied taste and aroma. Because it’s made of glass and stainless steel, the materials are taste free. In addition, no coffee filter is used. This allows the coffee beans’ full flavor and essential oils to go directly to your cup. Use fresh, coarsely ground dark or French roast coffee and water just off the boil. Brew for 4 minutes to get the very best from your coffee.
Our Review
The Chambord French coffee press has not changed from its original design. This is a clear indication of the superiority of the design. It is simple, elegant, and uses no electricity. The coffee press is durable and easy to clean. Although the carafe and the press are dishwasher safe, you can simply rinse them off with plain water.
Bodum manufactures quality coffee presses that you can count on to make a good cup of coffee quickly and conveniently. To make the best cup of coffee, the coffee grinds must be uniformly coarse. The water must be hot but not boiling. Brew for 4 minutes before plunging the coffee. This is how you get a rich, full-flavored cup of coffee.
This Chambord coffee press is described as a 12-cup model. However, you must remember that this is based on a 4-ounce cup of coffee. Americans are used to coffee mugs and will be able to get only about 3 mugs of coffee with this model.
Having said that, the fact remains that the Bodum Chambord 12-cup coffee press works extremely well and is the perfect choice for all French coffee press users. You can get the best price for this product at Amazon.com.
What Makes the Best Coffee Beans?
September 30, 2010 by admin
Filed under About Coffee, Making Coffee
A true coffee connoisseur is always on the lookout for the best coffee beans. After all, a perfect cup of coffee starts with the perfect coffee bean. Soil quality and climate play an important role in growing the best coffee. That is why a coffee gourmet is very particular about the source of his roasted beans. Processing and storage can also affect the quality of coffee beans.
Choosing the best coffee bean is a matter of individual preference. However, most coffee lovers agree that coffee beans from certain parts of the world are definite standouts in the art of coffee brewing. This includes coffee beans from Brazil, Indonesia, Sumatra, Colombia and Kenya.
Arabica coffee beans from the highlands of Yemen and Ethiopia are renowned for their heady aroma and flavor. Coffee beans from Medellin in Colombia are slightly acidic, full bodied and rich in flavor. They produce a brew that is syrupy and sweet tasting.
A certain type of gourmet coffee is civet coffee beans. These are produced in Sumatra, Bali, Java, Vietnam, the Philippines and East Timor. The processing method is unique. Coffee berries are fed to the Asian Palm civet. The beans pass through their system undigested. Civet coffee beans possess a unique flavor that is highly prized by gourmet coffee drinkers around the world.
The island of Kona in Hawaii produces a small quantity of excellent coffee. Kona coffee beans produce a brew that is full bodied with a rich aroma and flavor. The coffee has undertones of sweetness and spice.
To choose the best coffee beans you must buy them from gourmet coffee shops. It is difficult to obtain fresh beans in the supermarket. The beans they sell are usually pre-ground. Thus, the coffee starts to lose its flavor. In gourmet shops, whole beans are stored in airtight containers to preserve the freshness. They can also grind the coffee beans for you on the spot.
Freshly roasted coffee beans are the best ones to buy. You can ask the shop attendants to point out the freshest roasted coffee beans. Most gourmet shops roast their beans frequently on a regular basis.
If you have a coffee grinder at home, it’s best to buy whole beans. Whole beans retain their flavor oils more effectively. Grind only the quantity that you need. This helps you get the best flavor from your coffee beans.
Choosing the best coffee beans requires some research and experimentation. In addition, remember that coffee comes in light, medium and dark roast. You must decide which one you like best. Drinking coffee is an individual experience. In the end, choosing the best coffee beans will be a personal choice.
The Super Automatic Espresso Machines
March 3, 2010 by admin
Filed under Making Coffee
The super automatic espresso machines are the super convenient coffee machines. When it comes to the home brewed espresso many are opting for espresso machines. It is very convenient and super automatic. Now, market is flooded with these machines. There exists three types of espresso machines and they are manual, semi-automatic and super automatic. It is in fact the best investment. It provides the best value for your money.
Delonghi, Capresso and Saeco are some of the famous brands of the super automatic espresso machines. Some people invest on the home super automatic espresso machine. It is also one of the best choices but it is better to invest on the super automatic espresso machines. By purchasing the home super automatic machines, you can definitely save a lot of money but it cannot learn how to make the professional and premium espresso yourself. These machines are completely trustworthy and completely reliable. It is in fact the newer choice in the superior home brewing technology.
The super automatic espresso machines come with most intricate components. It works in such a way that makes the brewing more and more comfortable. It takes less interaction from your part. This super automatic makers assists you in programming the volume of the shot that you will brew, the kind of drink that you will brew, the strength of the shot that you will brew and it even foams and steams the milk for your drink.
Saeco is also quite a trendy super automatic espresso machine. This brand offers variety of choice for the users. This machine is quite reliable and comes in various ranges. You can select the one according to your choice and budget. It is completely user-friendly. More importantly, it has the capacity to make hundred cups of beverages per day. If you have a group family then it is the perfect choice. It is best for the big environment. It is super fast and does not take a very little time to make a drink. It can in fact help you to save your money in the end with this super automatic espresso machines.
Select the Best Coffee Maker
February 22, 2010 by admin
Filed under Featured, Making Coffee
Select the best coffee maker to enjoy the best Flavored Coffee. Coffee is becoming quite trendy and fashionable drink day by day. If you are one among these among coffee aficionados then go for the best coffee maker. For majority of the populace it is one of the essential beverages. Therefore, selecting the best coffee maker is one of the serious thought. Various types of coffee maker are available in the market. It is very much important to make a serious thought in deciding upon exactly what kind of machine you want to purchase.
Coffee maker is something that can provide you with the best beverage. You should feel happy with the purchase. Before selecting the best coffee maker, decide upon the needs that you have in the coffee maker. Coffee machines have come a long way. It has a numerous features and accessories for various purposes. While purchasing the coffee maker makes sure, about exactly what you want. It will assist you in getting the best deal for your money. It should provide value for your money.
As the first step, decide upon how many cups you have on a regular basis. If you have a big family then accordingly you have to select the best coffee maker. It should be able to make the minimum of twelve cups in a day. If you are the single than 3-4 cup, coffee maker is appropriate and therefore, you do not have to waste any Java. If you have a group family or a larger atmosphere then the best idea is buy a commercial coffee maker. Commercial coffee maker will be the best for home usage. It is true that the commercial coffee maker is quite expensive than the usual one. Nevertheless, it will provide best value for your money. It can provide your family members with the best beverage throughout the day.
You can even opt for the kitchen coffee grinder. Coffee maker with grinder is the most eminent feature with all the coffee makers that are available in the market. It can save a lot of money. You can select it, as it is more eminent as best coffee maker for the coffee drinkers.