It's holiday time again. Time for you to start thinking about new interesting items to purchase for Grandma, Grandpa, Mom, Dad. Trouble is, every year you get older you run out of ideas. You've already done pretty much everything you can think of. The tie for dad, the necklace for mom. You've sent pictures of the kids as they grow up, and you've made scrapbooks to show to your parents. But what more can you do that's creative, innovative and fun? How about print pictures of your kids on mugs for the grandparents!

Actually this isn't revolutionary, as you are most likely aware. But it is getting easier and easier to do. The technology boom that is not scheduled to ever end has allowed inventors and manufacturers to come out with new ways to permanently bond your children in that cute little pose for your parents to see forever. There are the two basic kinds of mugs. Ceramic, microwavable mugs, that serve great coffee and hot chocolate. There are also the current metallic travel mugs, just as effective in service, and now just as able to be printed on.

Since there are so may options open to you, the consumer, these days. I would advise that you take your time. You can find stores that offer photo coffee mugs easily- probably hundreds of them. Just go online and type in photo coffee mugs. Then I advise you take your time. Choose wisely, there is bound to be the perfect mug out there. They'll be custom designed even. If the person you plan on gifting to has a favorite color or shape, it will be available to you, just keep looking. Don't settle, make it fun, involve the kids. Then when you have chosen the perfect one. Purchase it, and follow the directions to get your photo right where you want it.

The process of transferring a photo to a mug is called dye sublimation. Using hot temperatures and high pressure it transfers the picture from your photo printed on special paper. The heat will brand the mug permanently, so that it won't wash off. Coffee mugs are durable, and cheap, don't be ripped off, just do your research. Its exciting for the giver and the receiver to see that thought and the personal touch was put into this original, fun, and simple gift. Everyday when your Dad gets up and brews himself a cup of coffee, or your mom pours her mug or orange juice, they'll smile and sit down with their grandkids at the table. Its a winner for everyone.

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-Courtney

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The Frappuccino didn't take long to become one of the best selling drinks in the world. The name has even become a "catch all" for a milk based coffee drink in many people's minds, often just called a "frap."

The Short History of Starbucks

The first Starbucks opened in 1971 in the historic Pike Place Market in Seattle. That's the place where they throw the fish. Hope none of those landed in the coffee. ;) The name, Starbucks, comes from Herman Melville's Moby Dick, the classic American novel about the 19th century whaling industry. That's why they have the Mermaid on the logo. Howard Schultz joined Starbucks in 1982. On a trip to Italy, he visited Milan's famous espresso bars and was impressed with their popularity and culture. He returned home and added Lattes and Mochas to Starbucks and Seattle goes coffee-crazy.

The rest of the world quickly follows and today Starbucks has more than 15,000 locations across the globe.

The History of the Frappuccino

Starbucks acquired the rights to a frozen coffee drink similar and the trademarked name, Frappuccino, when it bought out the Coffee Connection of Boston, a chain with 24-stores mostly around New England. A pretty good deal in hindsight.

The original Frap, however, was completely different from the one that Starbucks serves. The name, Frappuccino, is a combination of frappe and cappuccino. An original cappuccino is a strong Italian coffee drink topped with frothed milk -- and still served at Starbucks and every other coffee bar. Frappe is either taken from frappé, a Greek coffee-based milkshake, or from the local New England term for a thick milkshake, frappe. Or perhaps both. Cinnabon serves similar drinks called Mochalatta and Caramelatta and Dunkin' Donuts also has a drink called Coolatta .

So I suppose this is actually 4 recipes in 1. Cool.

Starbucks Frappuccino Recipe
Ingredients

1. 1/2 cup fresh Espresso
2. 2 1/2 cups low fat Milk (2 percent)
3. 1/4 cup granulated Sugar
4. 1 tablespoon dry Pectin (this adds no taste and can easily be left out. What it does is make it "thick")

Directions

Combine all of the ingredients in a pitcher or covered container.
Stir or shake until sugar is dissolved.
Chill and serve cold.

To make the "Mocha" variety:
Add a pinch (1/16 teaspoon) of cocoa powder to the mixture before combining.
This copy will be even more authentic if you use Starbucks beans and grind them yourself just before brewing.

Starbuck's Almond Biscotti
Ingredients

1. 2 cups all-purpose flour
2. 1 cup granulated sugar
3. 1 teaspoon baking powder
4. 1 cup chopped or slivered almonds, toasted in a 350 degree oven for 7-10 minutes, until fragrant, and cooled
5. 3 large eggs, room temperature
6. 1 teaspoon each: vanilla and almond extract
7. Pinch of salt

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Mix flour, sugar, nuts and baking powder and pinch of salt either in the food processor or mixer or even by hand.
Whisk eggs and extracts in another bowl until well beaten.
Add egg mixture to flour mixture and process or beat just until combined. Mixture will be sticky and thick.
Grease or spray a cookie sheet.
Divide dough into two parts and transfer to cookie sheet.
With floured hands, shape into 8" long, 1/2" high loaves.
If desired, sprinkle with a bit more of granulated or raw sugar.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, until pale golden and center of loaf is firm when touched.
Remove from cookie sheet and cool.
Place on cutting board and cut into 1/2" thick slices on the diagonal.
Arrange cookies cut side down on same sheet.
Bake another 12-18 minutes, until cookies are turning golden but still a bit soft.
Let cool and store in airtight container.
Makes about 2 dozen.

Making your restaurant favorites at home is easy and can save you money. Best Home Courses has a 35 Page Starbucks Recipe Book that you can download for Free.
Besides several more versions of the ever-popular Frappuccino, it also includes many other Starbucks coffee favorites and several of thier most popular pasties and cakes.
It's totally free to download. No purchase required. Just click and get.

Best Home Courses also includes many other totally free ebooks to download including seveal recipe book with more being added every week.
Download your Free Starbucks Recipes Ebook Right Now at Best Home Courses.

Mark Hester

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mark_Hester

When you go shopping at the grocery store, you might notice the black and white Fair Trade label on some coffees, but Fair Trade is a lot more than just a label on a bag, it's a social movement and market based approach to help farmers and coffee producers in third world countries. Fair Trade creates a mutually beneficial partnership between us, the people who drink the coffee and the people who make it.

It works by cutting out the middlemen and paying the small farmers and independent producers a fair price for their coffee beans. It promotes sustainability and helps the poorer producers and workers become more self-sufficient economically.

It ensures that the producers receive a living minimum wage of $1.26 per pound, no mater what the current market price. Gourmet coffee, which costs more is becoming more and more popular, but farmers in many countries are still making as little as fifty cents per pound.

Fair Trade organizations give credit to the producers to keep them out of debt and away from middlemen who would take advantage of them. In many places where farmers often aren't well educated or aren't allowed to sell as individuals, they're forced to sell to the middlemen at huge losses.

Around the world, more than two million coffee farmers rely on it to support their families.

It isn't just about the fair pay, to be certified Fair Trade Coffee, it has to meet certain social and environmental standards. As part of the certification, the farmers are taught environment and coffee friendly methods of fertilization and pest control. They're also taught about growing practices that benefit native vegetation and wildlife.

The higher wages also trickles down to local infrastructure investments that improve health care, education and other aspects of life.

Mike Crimmins is a coffee fanatic. He's not your traditional coffee expert or barista. He's just your average joe, looking for that perfect cup of coffee. You can learn more about coffee at his blog http://dailyshotofcoffee.com/

More information about Fair Trade Coffee.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mike_Crimmins

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http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zubr9NRvWCs

Everyone needs a good coffee maker. What is the point in even attempting to enjoy a rich cup of gourmet coffee if you do not have an affordable machine that can brew or prepare it properly? You do not have to spend thousands or even hundreds of dollars to get the high quality, best tasting espresso.


Important Features that Create Perfect Gourmet Espresso

Creating the perfect cup at home requires the purchase of a great espresso machine. Fortunately great machines often come with a very low price tag. In today's economy price is a very important factor when planning to purchase anything new. You simply have to know where to look for the most desirable features and prices.

Cup Warmer: A cup warmer is a necessity and is not considered a "high tech" feature. Therefore finding a machine with a cup warmer won't cause a great increase in price. Cup warmers provide a very warm cup to pour your espresso into. A cold cup takes away from the taste of the brew.

Water Strength Controls: Look for a machine that allows you to be in full control of how much water is used for each pull. The ability to fully control how much water is pushed, and how quickly it is pushed through the grounds, guarantees the perfect cup every time. A pre-moistening cycle is a great addition that moistens the coffee grounds with hot water before pulling the shot. Pre-moistening ultimately pulls out more aromatic oils and creates a more flavorful espresso.

Steam Wand: A steam wand or frothing wand is a must have for anyone planning to make lattes or cappuccinos. A canister for milk isn't a necessity, but is a nice addition. With the right amount of research you may find a machine that has both without adding a great amount to the cost.

Three Impressive Espresso Machines

The Lavazza Espresso Point EP850: A very reasonably priced machine capable of making gourmet single capsule espressos to your specifications. It also has a steam wand for making delicious cappuccinos or lattes. Unlike many others, this machine is not going to demand counter space. It is smaller than most and just as capable as larger machines. The shiny red appearance will be a beautiful, functioning, and practical addition to your kitchen. Enjoy a different flavor every time you use the machine by purchasing individual espresso pods. Consumers simply love the versatility of this espresso machine.

The Rancilio Silvia Espresso Machine: A heavy duty, slightly more expensive machine that's full of extra features. Features include a 67-ounce water tank that allows more coffee to be brewed in less time and a warming tray to keep coffee warmer longer. A powerful steam wand provides an impressive froth for your espresso enjoyment. Brass lines and brewing head help ensure the temperature is consistent throughout the heating, brewing and distribution processes.

The Starbucks Barista Home Espresso Machine: A compact, reasonably priced and sleek machine that is available in silver or black to match nearly any decor. This machine offers easy to use push-button technology for added simplicity. Don't let the simplicity of the machine fool you; it is easily powerful enough to provide a nice thick foam also known as "crema". Unlike other compact brands, this unit offers more than 4 minutes of continuous steaming power to allow you to create multiple drinks without waiting for pressure or heat to build.

Lili Rousso is a coffee aficionada who reviews Gourmet coffees from all around the world. This month she features the Lavazza Gourmet Coffee brand from http://www.aromacafeculture.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lili_Rousso

In this article I will be teaching you how to make coffee the tasty yet proper way from the comfort of your own home.

Firstly there are three main ways to make coffee. These include various different methods with various different outcomes although surprisingly all methods use the same ingredients. For the sake of this tedious yet random article or tutorial, I will be kind to all of you and use the basic servings of a coffee, which is as follows; two spoon's of sugar, one spoon of (mouth watering) coffee and finally a splash of milk - of course you will need hot water, and some prefer to use cream instead of milk.

But anyway as I was saying there are three main ways of making coffee, the main way, the not so main way and personally in my opinion the real way.



Methods

1. The first method is the most commonly used method, it is used by people who have not yet seen the light at the end of the tunnel. There method is simple. All they do is put the sugar, coffee, water and the splash of milk without any thought or misconception. They just go straight ahead with it and stir it all up. In my opinion, blinded by their myopic view of coffee making. (this method was meant to be ironic humor - in case some of you didn't pick that up)

2. The second method - the better method - is when you take more care into how to place all ingredients into that 'biblical' mug and how you intensively mix the ingredients. So first you start with the splash of milk (creamier in end result) and the coffee and the sugar. With the only thing left is water, before pouring the hot water, stir the ingredients properly and continuously as when the water is poured only then you remove the spoon. But only after half the water is poured. So in other words, after all the ingredients are mixed,

then you pour the water whilst still mixing the ingredients, then after half the mug is filled up, remove the spoon and finish pouring the water. Then you are finished. Do not carry on stirring or it will spoil the taste. Now you are finished, just wait a 'breif' 30-40 seconds and then start drinking.

3. The final and in my mind the best method is as follows. Remember to embrace your benevolent behavior in this final method, as you will truly reap the rewards. So in this method you first pour the water in to the mug, then the coffee and then the sugar. Now you stir ambiguously, after some serious vigorous stirring has gone on, quickly remove the spoon and add that vital splash of milk. This method will revolutionize the way you drink coffee.

These are the three ways to drink coffee. Hope you enjoyed this humorous article.

If you are reading this line, I just want to say thank you, because this means you took a minute out of your busy schedule or precious day to read an article. I am truly grateful and I hoped this was not a total waste of your time. Hope you enjoyed it. I have recently wrote this article on GoArticles that I would think you would like, it is entitled Reverse Phone Lookup! Hope you enjoy it, and don't forget to leave your comments and aspiring advice for me. Thanks.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jaideep_Kapur

In this day and age, coffee making has become something of an art. Specialty coffee shops have sprung up all over, and it would be hard to drive down a city street without seeing at least one or two. These days, coffee is more than just brewing a strong cup on the stove. There are fancy coffee makers, espresso machines, and cappuccino machines, and a host of coffee flavors and different coffee additives, such as flavored creamers or syrups.

There are times, however, when making a fancy cup of coffee is out of the question. Perhaps you are out roughing it in the wilderness, you forgot your stove-top percolator, and you still want at least a good black cup of coffee but aren’t sure what to do. Believe it or not, there is a trick to coffee making that doesn’t include electricity or even a stove-top percolator.

Of course, even if you are lacking a coffee maker or a coffee pot, you are still going to need your basic ground coffee, and you are going to need a heat source. Hopefully, if you are on a remote camping trip, you still remembered the coffee, even if you didn’t remember the stove-top percolator; and of course, most campers have campfires or camping stoves fueled by some type of gas. It can actually be a rewarding experience to use some old-fashioned ingenuity when it comes to the simple act of making coffee without a coffee pot; it helps us remember that we are not always slaves to modern technology.

The method you can use to make yourself a cup of coffee is to use a couple of paper towels, a regular pot or pan, and a cup – either a coffee cup or any cup that can hold hot liquid. Place a couple of paper towels over the cup, and then place some coffee grounds on paper towels. Heat the water over your campfire or on your camp stove until it is boiling, and then carefully, and slowly, pour the heated water over the coffee grounds and paper towels so that it filters into the cup. The more slowly you pour the water in,

the stronger your cup of coffee should be. If you don’t think the coffee is strong enough the first time, carefully remove the paper towels with the coffee grounds on top, pour the liquid from the cup back into the pan, put the napkins or paper towels and coffee grounds back on top of the cup, and repeat the procedure. It shouldn’t take more than two times to make a strong enough cup of coffee. This may seem like a long and tedious procedure, but you’ll get your cup of coffee, and you’ll probably feel rather proud of yourself!

John Gibb is the owner of coffee making sources , For more information on how to make coffee check out http://www.cofeemaking-sources.info

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Cuisinart coffee makers are trusted by innumerable homemakers worldwide. The Cuisinart brand is a great friend to homemakers, manufacturing many excellent kitchen appliances and cooking wares that make life so much easier for them. In the past, Cuisinart was popular for their high-quality food processors.



As time went by, however, they expanded their product offerings to include many other products. It was a great delight to coffee lovers worldwide when this esteemed brand finally came up with Cuisinart coffee machines. The famous homemaker's friend has finally applied its great expertise in kitchen appliance production to coffee machines designed to provide good coffee to anyone who needs it.

A World of Possibilities from Cuisinart

Cuisinart is known for opening up new possibilities for homemakers. As a well-known innovator, Cuisinart goes beyond producing coffee makers. Instead, they come up with ways to make coffee making a more variable experience for homemakers and coffee lovers. So to give you more options, Cuisinart brings a lot of automatic coffee maker models that work using the grind-and-brew operation. This hassle-free brewing system is a delight for many busybodies who need their instant cup of coffee and for homemakers who have quite a lot of things to do.

They also have models equipped with programmable timer and thermal carafes to keep coffee warm even after the brewing time has elapsed. You can also avail of Cuisinart coffee makers that already have two pots that can be filled with coffee at the same time, so that's more coffee for more people with just one brewing cycle. They also have a full range of large capacity coffee makers that can serve up to four, ten, and twelve cups in just one brewing. This can save you time and can conveniently fill simultaneous coffee cravings of family members and office workers. And if they have large capacity coffee makers, there are also Cuisinart coffee makers that just serve one.

Although not a sole offer, Cuisinart single-cup machines manage to stand out thanks to the company's branding genius. Their single-cup machines go by the name of Cup-O-Matic, which has received much popularity by itself. And aside from offering coffee makers, Cuisinart also has other products such as percolators and espresso makers. Experts and actual users have proven that only top-of-the-line quality and state-of-the-art features. Nothing will brew your coffee the way Cuisinart coffee machines can. And since your cup of coffee is crucial for a great start for your every day, you should only trust it with the expert.

More Than Just Simple Machines

Cuisinart coffee machines are also especially popular because of their great-looking designs. Judging by their coffee makers, it seems that Cuisinart has mastered the art of creating very useful and productive machines, and that they plenty of time to spare conceptualizing sleek designs for their products. Cuisinart coffee makers are known to give off an air of elegance and durability, combined into one.

On top of that, they offer various coffee making accessories to make your coffee making experience complete. You can buy stand-alone water filters and coffee grinders from Cuisinart that can be bought online along with the coffee makers. Despite the high brand equity that Cuisinart holds, their products are widely available in the online market in bargain prices that even budget-conscious homemakers can afford.

Since there are a lot of Cuisinart products out there, you will surely find the perfect coffee machine that's within your price range. Cuisinart has made it their mission to make your life better, and their coffee makers are designed with that purpose in mind. Created with such quality, the coffee makers from the trusted brand can definitely brighten up your morning with great, freshly brewed, wonderfully flavored coffee.

You can find more about the Cuisinart Coffee Makers on our Best coffee makers website.

Copyright 2008 Coffee-maker-guide.com, all rights reserved.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mark_Van_Tuel

Bitter coffee is a problem for many beginners. Coffee has complex flavors based on coffee oils, caffeine and other coffee compounds that researchers are trying to understand, and plenty of questions still remain.

Some coffees taste more bitter because of where they were grown, or how they were roasted.

Taste is very subjective, however, and different people experience the same coffee differently. It might taste more or less bitter to someone else. Some people notice this immediately, while others barely notice it and focus on other flavors in their coffee. Some people actually like a bitter edge to their coffee and others find it extremely unpleasant.

Making coffee less bitter

Here are some suggestions for making better tasting coffee.

1. The roast matters. If you find your dark roast makes a bitter brew, you may want to try a medium roast. The medium roast has less soluble solids, a higher acid content, and a potent aroma as compared to many dark roasts. These factors all can decrease perceived bitterness. Ironically, the lightest roasts can be more bitter than a medium roast. Also surprisingly, one of the darkest roasts, French Roast, often has a smoother, less bitter taste.

2. Consider changing to decaffeinated. The decaf process slightly reduces perceived coffee bitterness.

3. Try buying whole beans that have been soaked. Sometimes called the ferment-and-wash process, this is used in Kenya and can reduce bitterness.

4. Try brewing with a different type of coffee maker. The drip system makes the smoothest and least bitter brew, using a quality paper filter. Coffee made in a French press generally will be more bitter because of increased soluble solids from the longer brewing process.

5. Pay attention to the water temperature. Higher temperatures will result in over-extraction, often pulling undesired flavors from the ground coffee.

6. Avoid overly fine grinds. Finer grinds expose more surface of the particles, which can cause harsh flavors if the hot water is left in contact with the grind too long. Generally the faster the brewing process, the finer the grind will be needed. That is why espresso machines can use fine grinds, but you should use a courser ground for press pots.

7. Don't stew your coffee. For most drip makers, the brew sits in a glass carafe on a hot plate. The hot plate causes flavor to change quickly, making it more worse the longer it stays on the the hot plate. Try using a thermal carafe instead.

Interestingly, higher caffeine has a limited effect on increased bitterness.

If you continue to have problems with brewing bitter coffee, you may want to try a different maker. A single serve system can be a great way to brew your favorite hot drink, with no fuss. You can also buy a variety of beans and experiment with the grinds to find one that tastes right for you.

DJ Toman is a lawyer and coffee enthusiast living in Greensboro, North Carolina. He is the author of http://www.CoffeeDaydreams.com, a site dedicated to gourmet coffee and choosing the best coffee makers. Even beginners get helpful tips about how to brew and enjoy the coffee of their dreams, for a lifelong adventure exploring specialty coffee.

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Want to learn how to make coffee as delicious as the cups you get at your favorite cafe, right in the comfort of your home? Follow these seven easy pointers and you'll be on your way to brewing perfection.



1) Use the best machine

Purchase the highest quality one you can afford. A good machine will boil the water to at least 195 degrees F, the optimal temperature to extract the full flavors of the bean. Generally, inexpensive machines simply don't get the water hot enough, resulting in a tepid, tasteless batch of java.

2) Clean the machine thoroughly

You need to get rid of the residues and oils that could ruin the taste of your pot. Use warm, soapy water to wash the decanter and filter basket, and rinse thoroughly. Check your brewer instruction guide for specific directions.

3) Use good water

Did you know coffee is 98% water? The quality of the water you use is a major factor determining the taste.

Use only fresh, filtered, cold water. Stay away from tap. Bottled (not distilled) water is excellent, but if you find the cost of bottled water prohibitive, a good water filter is the way to go.

4) Use beans

Packaged, pre-ground java can't compare to freshly ground beans. Purchase a quantity of whole beans that you'll use within a couple of weeks. Store them in an airtight canister in a dark, cool cabinet or pantry.

5) Grind the beans

For true freshness, grind the beans immediately before you commence brewing. Use a burr or mill grinder for best results.

For automatic drip machines, use a medium grind. Use a very fine grind for espresso; a coarse grind for a French press.

6) Use the proper filter

For proper fit, use only the filters recommended by the machine's manufacturer. These days, some of the best brewer's come with permanent gold tone filters, which contributes toward a better tasting drink. If you have one, use it.

If you use a disposable paper filter, try dampening the filter with water after you insert it in the basket, to keep a papery taste from tainting the brew.

7) Measure the right amount of grounds

The guideline is 2 tablespoons for every 6 ounces of water. Modify this for your personal preference, but use a measuring scoop to be precise.

Now you know how to make coffee that will make a barista green with envy. Enjoy!

Michael J. Cross is a professional freelance writer and creator of http://www.best-coffee-maker.net . If you're serious about learning how to make coffee, check out our online reviews for help selecting the best coffee maker for your needs.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_J._Cross

If you are having a large gathering, one of the nicest things that you could possibly do for them is to have plenty of fresh coffee available. Very few people who enjoy coffee would pass up an opportunity to drink a nice hot cup at any gathering. Of course, when you are making coffee for a large group, you're going to have to go about it in a different way than if you were only making coffee for a handful of people.

Use the Right Size Coffee Maker
The first thing that you are going to need whenever you are making coffee for a large group is a coffee maker that is able to brew enough for everybody at one time. The last thing that you want to do is to stand in the kitchen, brewing pot after pot and only serving eight to 10 people at a time.

There are several different machines that are an excellent choice for brewing a large batch of coffee and do an excellent job of it. There are some things, however, that you are going to need to keep in mind.

Use the Best Ingredients
Regardless of whether you are making coffee for large group or if you're only making it for an intimate gathering, the ingredients that go into the pot are going to make the difference in what comes out of it.

First of all, the coffee beans that you use can make all the difference whenever it comes to the way that the coffee tastes. This is especially true when ever you are making coffee for a large group and the bean that you choose should be one that would appeal to the most people.

Another thing that you want to keep in mind is the fact that coffee is basically a water-based drink. If you use inferior water to fill the coffee pot, you are going to come out with an inferior brew. Be sure to use fresh, cold water and a clean pot to make your coffee taste great.

Don't Forget the Creamer
Lastly, you need to make sure that you have all of the condiments that are necessary to go along with the perfect cup of coffee. Even if you don't care for cream or sugar in your coffee, there is bound to be somebody at your gathering that does. For those individuals, it makes all the difference of whether they are going to enjoy the cup of coffee or not.

If you get all of these things right, you will surely make great coffee that will leave a lasting impression on any large group.

There are several different elements that go into making the perfect cup of coffee, especially when you are doing so for a large group of people. If you get the right coffee maker, beans, and extras right, folks will enjoy every cup that you make for them.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Anya_Richfield

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http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BWTa6E-dbf0

As you are expanding your espresso tasting palate and coffee repertoire, it is incredibly important that you become a connoisseur and a snob so that you can create the perfect brew every time. This is also completely helpful if you are ordering espresso from a local coffee shop or café, which we all have to do from time to time, so that you can judge their product and know if it is up to par. Firstly, I hope that you are using a high quality espresso machine for your home use so that you can focus on creating a premium brew products with advanced technology. The good news for all of you Java lovers out there is that there are many affordable machines, many of them under $1000, that have incredibly long life spans and are worth it once you do the math on all of these $3 lattes that you have been purchasing every day. It will also save you money to look for a high quality machine that also includes a grinder, like the La Pavoni Napolitana, which is only $600, and has a built-in grinder and coffee press.

Now let's get down to business on making the perfect shot. You will definitely want to freshly grind your beans to a fine consistency, and then tamper them down into your filter. Make sure that you do not tamp too tightly so that the water can still infuse the espresso properly, otherwise this will result in a weak shot. The ideal brewing time for your shot should be around 10 seconds so that you can make sure that your grounds are properly extracted. If you experience any issues with the brew being too fast or too slow, this may mean that you need to check your grind consistency because it could be to coarse or too fine. After that, you can take a look at your product, and ideally, there should be a brown, rich crema on top to signify quality. The color of the brew should be a dark hazelnut with a deep scent of chocolate and fruit undertones. It is important to drink your brew right away because the aromas and flavors will begin to compromise if you let it sit for a period of time, and the texture and consistency of your shot should be smooth like velvet, with a balance that is not overly bitter.

A few last things to note for the best brew possible is to use filtered water and not tap water because the chlorine content in tap water can affect the taste, not to mention create lime scale in your fine machine. Focus on a thick crema because this is really what reflects the quality of the brewing process, the beans, and the grind. When all of these elements come together, it is like a beautiful espresso symphony that means that you have made the perfect shot! Practice makes perfect, so don't give up, and use this time to keep striving for the best of the best.

The best espresso machine is the La Pavoni Napolitana, and you can find that and other fine coffee products on Chuggin McCoffee's website, The Coffee Bump!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mark_Ramos

This coffee maker with its unique octagonal shape was first designed in Italy in 1933 by Alfonso Bialetti, and his company continues to market the leading model, the Moka Express. In Italy every family owns one of these machines.

Espresso is coffee made by forcing hot water under high pressure through coffee that has been grounded to an extremely fine powder.

This machine delivers all the flavor and aroma of espresso without the expense and bulk of a fancy espresso machine. You just fill, brew and pour.

Follow these tips for a unique coffee:

* Fill the bottom chamber to a little below the safety valve (or it will explode) * Use drinking water. Avoid tap water especially if very chlorinated * Use a finely ground good coffee and put in the container but don't overfill * Never compress the coffee * Put on medium heat or low heat * Do not let the coffee boil, as soon as coffee reaches the top, remove from heat

Dispose of the first 2 or 3 batches of coffee before first use to prevent any aluminum flavor.

To assure a long life to the Moka Express:

* Avoid high heat * Rinse the components with water, don't use the dishwasher * Towel dry * Store dissembled * Make sure it is completely dry before storing away * Replace the rubber seals once in a while

The choice of coffee as well as quantity used make an enormous difference in the result. You will find that you like a certain amount of coffee grinds and maybe a certain level of water and you will consistently get the best cup of coffee you ever had.

The Bialetti Moka Express really does a great job of extracting the full-spectrum of flavors without overpowering you with the acidity that can upset your stomach. For more tips visit http://hubpages.com/hub/moka-stovetop-espresso-maker

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lukas_F

Gourmet flavored coffee - that alone conjures up images of piping hot mugs of freshly brewed coffee being served after dinner at an elite restaurant as you enjoy your crepe suzette. Is it an advertising gimmick to get you to spend more on certain coffees or is there truly a difference. The fact is, gourmet flavored coffees are real and they aren't for the elite alone. In fact, you can probably find a gourmet flavored coffee in a lot of homes and offices.

The popularity of gourmet flavored coffee has soared. For years the only gourmet flavored coffees were the instant coffees available in your local grocery. Although they are quite flavorful, they aren't nearly as tasty as a pot of freshly ground gourmet flavored coffee can be.

Coffee roasters realized that people like variety and of course they took notice of those instant flavored coffees and coffee drinks and began working on making the coffee bean flavored. Other coffee roasters didn't go for exotic flavored coffees; instead they focused on the growing and roasting of the bean itself to make a gourmet flavor.

Beans that are grown in certain regions are considered more desirable than those in other regions. Think back to those Juan Valdez commercials. They were marketing the Columbian bean as being a more flavorful and sought after bean. The Jamaican Blue Forest Bean is one of the most sought after gourmet beans due to its rich taste and enchanting aroma. This bean is proof that gourmet flavor can come from the bean itself, not necessarily as an addition during roasting.

The Bean and the Flavor

Gourmet flavors can be added during the roasting process to enhance or totally alter the flavor of the coffee. There is one central premise that gourmet coffee roasters all follow in order for their coffee to be considered truly gourmet and that is the bean they start with. No matter what additions or flavors they add during roasting, starting off with an inferior bean will create an inferior coffee.

Although there are more than 25 major types of coffee beans in the world, there are two beans that are considered the major players in gourmet flavored coffees, the Arabica bean and the Robusta bean.

The Arabica bean is used in more than 60% of all gourmet coffee production around the world. This bean is very delicate and prone to disease, pest and ailments from the weather. These reasons alone make it a more costly bean. The Arabica bean is used both as a gourmet coffee on its own and as a base for gourmet flavored coffees. The taste of the Arabica bean depends on where it is grown.

The Robusta bean accounts for about 40% of coffee production in the world. Robusta beans are easier to grow which makes them less expensive. This does not mean that they are any less flavorful than Arabica beans. Robusta, as the name implies, have a stronger, darker flavor than Arabica beans and can be used to give the gourmet flavored coffee a little more punch.

Oftentimes gourmet roasters will use a blend of Arabica and Robusta coffee beans as the base to their gourmet flavored coffee. Then, during the roasting process they will add enhancements such as chocolate syrups or caramel to flavor the coffee. Flavoring oils can also be used to flavor the coffee as well as chemical compounds that are created to mimic flavors.

Gourmet flavored coffee that presents itself as naturally flavored should have the most robust coffee base as well as a subtle flavoring. Flavored coffees that have been flavored using a chemical process lose some of their natural coffee characteristics during the flavoring process.

Gourmet flavored coffees have come a long way in recent years. From deep, robust coffee that has been dark roasted to those wonderful vanilla bean gourmet flavored coffees, coffee lover's palettes can be tantalized with a variety of coffee flavors. No longer set aside for the elite, gourmet coffees can be bought at the local grocer or coffee shop by most anyone.

Sharon V Chapman writes on the joys of coffee and provides information on gourmet flavored coffee and gourmet coffee in general.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sharon_V_Chapman

So you're thinking about going into the coffee/tea business. Here are some insider tips and tricks of the trade that you need to know.

Whether you've got the business plan laid out or are just entertaining the idea of starting toward your dream of opening a coffee shop, there's so much more to the industry than you ever thought possible. But don't worry; I'm going to give you some tips and tricks of the trade to get you on your way to a great business in the coffee/tea world.

Espresso machines are EXPENSIVE. However, the taste of your espresso is one of the most important facets of your business and can make or break you. You don't have to go too crazy on an espresso machine, however keep in mind that this is a worthwhile investment that you don't want to skimp on. Depending on the size of the coffee shop you want, most (if not all) coffee shops can get away with having two brewheads, so you shouldn't need to purchase a machine with three. Also, if you want the true, die hard coffee fanatics, go for a traditional machine rather than an automatic. Unless you're planning on having a line out the door for hours with unseasoned baristas, you'll be able to get through the morning rush on a 2-brewhead traditional machine, and (in my opinion) makes a much better shot of espresso.

Location is very, very key for coffee shops. When searching for a home for your coffee shop, position it within the driving path of morning commuters. Morning coffee drinkers would rather wait and drink the junk coffee at work than go way out of their way to stop for a good cup. If there's a few larger businesses in your city or town, try to position your location near an intersection close by. Even better - set up a drive through window for the on-the-go workers that don't leave much time to stop.

One of the biggest revenue builders for you is going to be the sale of whole bean coffee as well as your coffee beverages. Make a big deal to your customers about what they're drinking and give them tips and tricks for brewing the same beans at home. This might mean they'll skip a few trips to your store, but a bag of beans costs way more than their three cups of coffee for the week. Most times customers will spend more on whole bean coffee if they get hooked, or introduce it to their office. All great opportunities.

Educate your customers. I can't emphasize this enough. When customers feel like they know insider, expert information about coffee or your products, they want to share that information. So they talk to their friends about what they learned at Jack's Coffee earlier that morning - FREE advertising! It makes them feel knowledgeable and gets them engaged in discovering new coffees and continuing their education.

You'll feel the urge to expand your menu to be as large as possible - something for everyone right? Try to resist this urge. Let your customers know that they can customize their beverages and definitely take into consideration any suggestions your customers give you, but don't put too much on the menu. When a menu is too large, people get overwhelmed. Often times people new to coffee will feel intimidated by a large menu of items that they aren't familiar with and this will add to the negative feeling for them. It's also helpful to list out what each item is on the menu. This might come in handy for those are aren't familiar with what a real cappuccino is!

Make sure you offer beverages other than coffee. This may seem silly to some, and a no-brainer to others, but let me explain why. I'm all about the coffee date. Coffee shops are known as a great place to get together and socialize or just sit and read. But many times they become less about coffee and more about the atmosphere. By offering items other than coffee you're ensuring that you're catering to anyone who wants to come hang out! Also, don't be shy about putting LOTS of comfy chairs and couches in your coffee shop. You can never have too much good seating for the readers and relaxers.

If you're thinking about going into the coffee business, or if you already have, consider gaining more insider knowledge from the book "Espresso Business Mistakes." Find more information about coffee, and about my recommended read by clicking here!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tiffany_Balz

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Yes, it is true that it will do wonders for your health to sip the delicious elixir of the gods that is Java. If you are not already a coffee fan, then this article may turn you around. Coffee, of course, is a stimulant, and more and more Americans are jumping on board to drink Java every single day. It really does help that coffee houses have become a social icon where people can do business, socialize, and relax. If places like this have become a hub for social activity, then it only makes more sense that people are drinking the brew more often due to convenience and availability.

One of the main things that Java has to offer you for a longer life is that it is chock full of antioxidants that actually neutralize free radicals in your body. This is helpful for any sufferers of asthma attacks because the antioxidants reduce the risk of this condition. Free radicals actually come from outside factors like pollution and sun exposure, and they are known to damage the body and show premature signs of aging. This may also be the reason that we have seen coffee used in numerous skin care products to date because it can fight the effects of free radicals in the skin which normally would cause fine lines and wrinkles. It has been said that this drink is one of the main source of antioxidants for Americans because it is a popular staple in their daily diet.

But the buck doesn't stop there! Java will also help to lower the risk of cancer and heart disease because of the antioxidants that works to strengthen your immune system. Caffeine is actually a vasodilator, which this brew is full of, and it works to enhance your blood circulation through your heart and arteries for an overall health benefit. To go back to the benefits of drinking Java for asthma sufferers, they will experience a 25% less risk due to drinking this delicious brew. Java is actually full of compounds that work as a bronchodilator so that the symptoms of chest tightening, wheezing, and coughing are alleviated.

Another daily ailment that Java is brilliant for is easing the pains of a headache. If you find your head pounding throughout the day, then a much better way to deal with it than popping pills is to simply sip a delicious cup of Joe because caffeine is known to reduce the pain in headaches. The amount that is recommended by most health care professionals is to drink up to 4 cups of Java a day, and it also helps to spread out your coffee consumption so that you do not experience any crashes. A better way to approach your Java drinking is to look at the milligrams of caffeine that you are in taking since so many Java drinks vary in size. The ideal amount of caffeine to have per day is 300 mg, so be aware of how much your drinks contain. Other than that, pour yourself a steaming cup of Joe and enjoy!

The best espresso machine that you can enjoy your Java with is the La Pavoni Stradavari! For a great selection of espresso machines and all things coffee, check out Chuggin McCoffee's website, The Coffee Bump.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mark_Ramos

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It's really easy to make your coffee go from okay and average to amazing. Follow the nine steps below and you'll be tasting the difference.





Clean your coffee maker regularly.

Minerals from your water, oils from the coffee can build up inside your coffee maker and affect the taste. Cleaning your coffee maker once or twice a month, will give you the best tasting cup of joe. The easiest way to do it is using a pot filled with one-third vinegar and two-thirds cold water. Put in a coffee filter and let the vinegar water cycle through your the machine. Do the same thing with cold water to get of the vinegar and you'll have better tasting coffee.

Buy fresh beans and grind them yourself.

Ground coffee loses it's flavor in less than half an hour and who knows how long it was sitting on the shelf before you decided to buy it. Grinding your own beans is very easy to do and decent grinders start at just twenty dollars.

Use better water.

A lot of homes have water with minerals in it that can affect the taste of your coffee. Using a water filter or bottled water is an easy solution to improve the taste.

Keep your coffee fresh.

Store your beans in airtight canisters that you keep them dry and out of direct light. Do not store them in the freezer or the refrigerator. Both places have negative effects on the way it'll taste.

Use the right grind.

Medium grind for a French Press or Drip Coffee Maker Fine grind fr Espresso Machines And only grind what you need. If you grind more than you use right away, it'll go stale.

Use the right amount of grounds.

Two tablespoons per six ounce cup is the standard But you can experiment with more or less to get the taste you like.

Don't use boiling water.

Boiling water can make your coffee taste bitter. This is more a problem with French Presses, with a Drip Coffee Maker, it'll adjust the temperature itself.

Coffee too bitter?

Try putting two or three pinches on top of the grounds to reduce the bitter taste.

Don't let your coffee sit around.

Don't leave the pot on the hot pot for longer than ten minutes. On many models, it'll start burning the coffee inside after that time length. Also, don't let your coffee sit around for more than a half hour, because it'll start to lose its flavor. You can use a glass lined carafe to keep it fresh longer.

Mike Crimmins is a coffee fanatic. He's not your traditional coffee expert or barista. He's just your average joe, looking for that perfect cup of coffee. You can learn more about coffee at his blog http://dailyshotofcoffee.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mike_Crimmins

A vacuum coffee maker is a great home appliance to have if you want a delicious, perfectly brewed cup of coffee. Here are a few tips to help you make the best use of your machine.

* You should use fairly coarse grinds so you do not clog up the filter. Vacuum coffee makers do tend to use more coffee than some other types of machines, but the result is well worth it.

* Use filtered water to produce the best results.

* Don't place the top pot on until the water is almost at a boiling point in the lower pot. Otherwise, the water temperature will be too cool to brew at ideal conditions.

* When you put the top pot onto the bottom pot to finish the brewing process, make sure you have a tight seal between the two pots. The vacuum process is what allows the brewing to occur at an ideal temperature and you need a good seal for that to occur.

* Experiment with how long you leave the vacuum coffee maker on the heat source during the brewing process. The longer you leave it on, the stronger your coffee will be. Test to find out what is ideal for your taste.

* Handle your machine with care. Remember, it is made of glass!

* Buy a thermos or carafe to keep your coffee warm after brewing.

A vacuum coffee maker makes delicious rich, smooth coffee. You will need to do a little bit of experimenting with the amount of grinds you put in and the amount of brewing time, but other than that the vacuum process will work its magic to produce perfectly brewed coffee every time!

To discover more great reviews and tips on the vacuum coffee maker, senseo coffee maker and more, visit coffeemakerhome.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jules_Wright

Do you like to have things your own way? Of course you do. We all need to feel like we are in control of our lives. We choose what to wear, what to eat and what to drink. But, when it comes to coffee, we are often content to simply give in and buy what we are offered (i.e. told to buy.)

Did you know that you don't have to stand for it? That you actually have a choice? Owning a coffee bean roaster will liberate your coffee!

Ok, it may sound like a lot of messing around for very little reward. But wait a moment. There are good reasons why you would want to roast your own coffee. Here are a few.

1 : You can suit your own tastes. With a coffee bean roaster you can make the roast as dark or light as you wish.

2 : You will know what is in your coffee. Ground coffee often contains filler, which is non-coffee foodstuffs added to your coffee to make it bulkier (i.e. to rip you off).

3 : Your coffee sill be 100% fresh. The flavor and freshness will be at its peak every time because you will only ever roast the coffee in small batches shortly before you use it.

4 : The green beans are much cheaper than roaster beans.

5 : You can experiment with different blends to match your exact taste.

There are 2 different types of coffee roaster, the "fluid bed" or air roaster and the drum roaster.

The air coffee roaster uses hot air to roast the coffee beans in a glass chamber, which means that you can watch the coffee as it roasts to make sure it reaches the perfect color, whether amber or dark. These roasters tend to roast the beans much more quickly than the drum roasters as they use a high velocity stream of air to transfer heat directly to the beans. So you will need to keep a close eye on the coffee to keep it from burning.

A good example of the air roaster is the fresh roast coffee bean roaster. This is a good entry model for beginners, but it only makes enough coffee for one or two people at a time.

A drum coffee roaster, on the other hand, works on the basis of convection, much like an oven does. It transfers the heat to the bean at a slow, even pace, which helps to prevent scorching and baking. It does not have a glass chamber, so you will need to scoop out some beans during the roasting process to check their progress.

Many people are happy to start with the fresh roast coffee roaster because of the glass chamber, and then move on to a drum roaster as their hobby progresses. And for those who have found that their hobby has taken on a life of its own, with friends and family regularly consuming large quantities of their "secret recipe" coffee, a commercial coffee bean roaster is a tempting but pricey purchase.

Tyler is a writer for a blog named Coffee Chat, which is dedicated to everything about coffee, we have articles ranging from French Press coffee, to Automatic Coffee Makers

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tyler_Bond

One of the most popular coffees in the world is Kona coffee. If you have never tasted it, you'll be surprised to find out that even non-coffees drinkers find Kona coffee delightful. Hailing from the Big Island of Hawaii, it was brought there in the nineteenth century by Brazilian explorers. Today, you can find hundreds of small coffee farms in Hawaii that grow this glorious bean. In fact, it is so popular, there are even different types of Kona coffee, with the most popular being the peaberry version. You can decipher peaberry from the rest by its small coffee beans.

You may find that you may have to go through a small expense to have Kona coffee delivered straight to your door, and if you are serious about Kona coffee, you might as well do it right. If you decide to go down this path, it is strongly recommended that you buy the beans and not the pre-ground coffee. While it may be more convenient, the beans truly maintain much more of their flavor and aroma if they are consumed immediately after they are ground. It is strongly recommended to only grind one press full at a time, as that is about the capacity for consumption over the course of the day, and pressing anything more than one day in advance is a recipe for stale coffee.

If you're looking to use a coffee press to make your coffee, you put the coffee in the bottom and pour hot water into the jar. Let it brew for a minimum of 4-5 minutes, then push down on the plunger. This filters the coffee, keeping the ground near the bottom of the press. At a tiny price of $30, you can't go wrong with purchasing one of these at the store.

Getting back to Kona coffee: if you do decide to buy it, be sure it is 100% pure Kona, and not a Kona blend. Blends are exactly that: a little bit of Kona and a little bit of something else. Usually the something else is very cheap, sometimes stale, coffee. Lastly, if you've never tried Kona before, it is recommended that you purchase an 8oz. bag to start. This way, if you do not like the taste (God knows why), you will not be heavily invested.

For more great Kona Coffee ideas, visit my simple coffee resource and guide: http://www.CoffeeBeansDelivery.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dickson_Yan

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There are just so many benefits associated with buying organic produce. Coffee is no exception to this, with organic coffee having its own share of benefits. Organic farmers, in my opinion, may very well be the future of agriculture: people who utilize sustainable farming methods without needing to resort to all those pesticides, chemical fertilizers and other potentially harmful materials should be supported whenever possible.


Also, coffee that is grown organically for sale in the USA must undergo rigorous inspection before it is certified by a US Department of Agriculture- accredited agency. Some requirements for this certification include a minimum of three years of growing without chemical pesticides, as well as a sustainable crop rotation plan that prevents the depletion of nutrients in the soil.

As almost anyone will tell you, organic produce is getting more and more known in the supermarket shelves, among other places. I would personally suggest including products such as organic meat, organic milk, organic eggs, organic vegetables and other similar foodstuffs as part of your regular diet - anything to lower the amount of pesticide residues residing (pardon the pun) in your body. Organic coffee is an easy to integrate part of any organic lifestyle you wish to undertake as well. And if you think that going organic is expensive, think again. Many websites that sell organic coffee beans online sell them for the same price as coffee that is grown with pesticides and other, similar chemicals. Some organic coffee growers even make the extra effort to grow their beans under rainforest reserving trees and the like.

And even if you do not care about the state of our rainforests today (which I think is perfectly rational but a tad bit selfish), you should still consider the option of buying organic coffee beans simply because they don't only taste great, but they are good for your overall health as well. After all, organic coffee isn't mind-bogglingly expensive, and most companies will not a charge a premium for it anyway.

There are a lot of exotic coffee varieties out there are much more expensive. The contamination of our surroundings and the destruction of our planet's ecosystems is something we should also make the effort to discourage. The fact that organic coffee doesn't cost that much more than conventionally grown coffee is one more significantly relevant reason to do so. Just make sure that the company you get your beans from is certified as organic by a third-party certification company, though.

Coffee Bean Depot.com has many articles and products about coffee, buying coffee direct and lots more!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Craig_D_Smith

I have been in a long search for the perfect cup of bold, flavorful coffee and Coffee People K-Cup Coffee hits the right spot. I got mine when someone from the office saw me typing on my computer and almost fell face first on the keyboard due to sleepiness. He handed me a coffee people k-cup and it made me put a wide grin on my face when I saw the writings on the cup: dark roast, extra bold jet fuel.

I was reluctant to try this product at first since I had been disappointed countless times by fake claims from different coffee brands. But at the first smell of it, I just knew that my long search for the perfect cup of dark roasted coffee had finally come to an end.

It's the kind of coffee that you need when you have to jump-start your day. Because of its dark bold flavor there is a certain giddy feeling after finishing a cup. Truth be told, this is not a tame cup and I am addicted to it.

Though the coffee is strong and bold there is absolutely no bitter flavor into it which makes it my preference among other that I have tried. At first, the coffee may seem to be overpowering especially to non-bold coffee drinkers but on the second sip, you'll enjoy every moment of it. It has a certain strong brew from an old fashioned coffee brewer perfect for those people who know and drink nothing but the best.

For more information, check other Coffee People K-Cup Coffee reviews.

Erika Ayala works part time for a consumer review company.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Erika_Ayala

Coffee has become a necessity especially for people who constantly needs a jolt of extra energy during the day. The best way to have coffee is having it fresh every day; thus the creation of coffee makers has become a success.

There are different kinds of coffee one could choose from to fit their taste; the beans which come from tropical shrubs and trees are found in a number of countries practically giving an infinite number of blends and flavors to decide one. Though there are two common blends which are Arabica and Robusta; these are the most popular bases for defining coffee.

Coffee makers are no more than a regular item in any household's kitchen or office's pantry area; it is practical and efficient - provides fresh and pure coffee every single time. Despite its simplicity, there are a few other coffee maker accessories which come along with this wonderful technological innovation.

Water filters are an important accessory a coffee maker must have; it is not a necessity, though for one to be able to produce a good pot or brew, this is essential. Regular tap water is normally considered as hard water; it is filled with countless minerals and can contradict with the taste of natural coffee. It is a fact that if one would opt to use soft water (water which has been filtered); the brew is guaranteed to taste better as the coffee will be able to maximize the extraction of its flavors. However, if one would rather use regular tap water, the taste may not bother them, though what they are mostly not aware of is the fact that hard water has the tendency to leave mineral deposits in the coffee maker thus shortening its life span.

Another of the coffee maker accessories are the coffee filters; these filters the ground coffee which one needs to be able to produce a pot. These are used especially in drip coffee machines; these prevent the ground coffee from getting in the rest of the brew thus making sure one does not accidentally sip any coffee residue in their cups.

There are three different coffee filters available to choose from; there are the regular paper filters which are the most common; though they serve their purpose well, there may be traces of paper taste when it is used in a brew. There is also the cloth filter; they are safe to use and are environment friendly as they can be reused after in between rinses. Finally, there are the Gold coffee filters, lined with real gold, they are not cheap and these are not as common as the two above mentioned; though these can last for long periods of time without giving any peculiar taste to the brew.

Coffee mills or grinders are also coffee maker accessories; these enable one to grind pure coffee beans and turn them into freshly ground coffee even on a daily basis. It is a compact machine which is equipped with razor sharp blades to be able to grind the coffee beans in to a fine powder.

However one wishes to have their coffee, they can guarantee a fresh and satisfying cup with the aide of their trusty coffee maker accessories and espresso cups that make every cup more satisfying.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Peter_J_Jordan

How to Save Money on Coffee - Learn to Save Thousands of Dollars Without Giving Up Your Cup of Joe

Would you give up coffee for a year in return for gas for twelve months? Gas is expensive but I don't know if giving up coffee is a realistic goal. Although it would be nice to have gas paid for a year, giving up coffee for me could never be a reality. Better yet, what if you could still have that same cup of coffee every day and get 11 months of gas? That sound better right? You still get your coffee every day and you still get the gas for most of the year. How can this be possible you ask? Gas is so expensive. How can anyone get it for free?

I will now show you how changing a simple routine in your life can amount to big bucks over time. If changing one of your habits can amount to so much money, imagine what changing your lifestyle can do for you!

Most people stop for coffee on the way to work at a local Starbucks or Dunkin Donuts. Let's say that you go to Starbucks and get a large cup of coffee every day at 3 dollars. On the weekends, you take your girlfriend out for breakfast to IHOP and spend about 6 dollars for 2 cups of coffee each day, plus the cost of breakfast. That's $27 per week on coffee alone. Multiply that by 52 weeks and you are spending $1404 on coffee a year! That is unbelievable right?

So now you ask, "How can I still afford that cup of coffee and still get free gas"? Ok, this is where a small change is routine can add up to a mini-fortune.

Get yourself a $30 coffee maker at Wal-Mart. There is a reason this store is making such an impact on our society. It is very hard to find better prices anywhere else. You should become very familiar with this store and I will explain why in the chapter "Developing great shopping habits".

At the wholesale club, get a 2 pound bag of Starbucks fair trade coffee beans for about $10, get a bag of coffee filters for about $3, go to the front of the store and use their industrial coffee bean grinder to grind your coffee beans and go home to enjoy your 1 st cup of freedom.

Some might argue that making coffee everyday is much harder than going to the
store and picking it up. Is it really harder though? It is all a mater of
perspective. Once you get into the routine of setting up your automatic coffee
machine, it's just as easy as walking into the coffee shop and picking up that
cup of coffee. We pay such a premium for convenience these days but where does
it end? When you spend $1404 per year on coffee alone, image what all the other
conveniences are costing you. You need to make $100k a year just to support your
lazy habits.

I talk to people that make $80k/year and they can not keep their head above water. They live from paycheck to paycheck and are constantly worried about how the next month's rent is going to get paid. It sounds ridiculous to some of you but it is true. Making more money does not always mean you are better off financially. People spend their money on frivolous conveniences and have nothing to show for it. I would rather make my own cup of coffee every day and have $1300 in the bank to show for it.

Daniel B. Goodman has been saving money for 20 years! Please visit his BLOG at http://www.theultimatesurvivalguide.com/wordpress for some great saving tips. There are a few New Jersey businesses listed on the BLOG that offer great discounts - You are welcome to post any business that has saved you money.

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