Coffee

Single cup coffee refers to the type of coffee that’s produced from single portion pods or containers – typically using single cup coffee makers specific to the particular brand or type of container. There are currently five main types or formats – Coffee Pods, Tassimo T Discs, Keurig K Cups, Nespresso Capsules and Nescafe Dolce Gusto Capsules, as we explain below.

First though, the common features…

They all allow you to brew a fresh cup of coffee, with only a minimum of waiting time and a minimum of preparation/attention required.

Single cup coffee making does away with the need to grind your own beans and reduces the actions to that of ensuring that there’s enough water in the machine, switching it on, then when hot (which normally only takes a minute of so) inserting the pod/capsule/disc and pressing a button to produce the freshly brewed coffee.

The machines are also typically quite compact, so don’t take up too much space on your kitchen counter or your desk! One thing to note is that it’s typically only the higher-end machines that can produce a true espresso, which is typically accepted as requiring a pressure of 9 bars or more, but may people find the drinks produced by the other machines perfectly acceptable, while being extremely convenient to use.

As mentioned above, single cup coffee comes in five main formats:

• Coffee Pods – While these are the most common, interchangeable option, you do need to be aware that the ‘standard’ pod size is the 62mm size, as there are also 44mm and 55mm pods/machines. If you stick to the 62mm machines, such as the Philips Senseo single cup coffee makers or the Krups Home Cafe range, you’ll find that you have the widest range of choices, from both the producers of the single cup coffee markers as well as from independent sources.
  - A main source for this type of coffee pod is the Senseo Douwe Egberts range, which currently has a number of sub-ranges, covering the traditional coffee strengths such as Decaffeinated, Medium Roast, Dark Roast and Expresso, featured blends such as Sumatra Blend, Brazil Blend, Kenyan Blend and Colombia Blend together with other flavors such as Breakfast Blend, Creme Brulee, Chocolate and Paris (French Vanilla).
• Tassimo T Discs – These work with the Tassimo range of single cup coffee makers, which are able to read the bar code on the discs, which allow the machine to adjust it’s processing according to the specific needs of the selected disk, including being able to use a ‘milk’ disc when making cappuccinos, etc.
  - The Tassimo system takes advantage of the capability to adjust the processing according to the particular requirements of the selected drink, so it’s able to dispense a range of drinks from premium coffees, crema coffees, real milk cappuccinos and lattes, espressos, hot chocolates and even teas.
• Keurig K Cups – These work with the Keurig range of single cup coffee makers and fit between the T Discs and the Coffee Pods, in that there are more flavors or variations available than for T Discs, but fewer than the ‘open’ Coffee Pod format.
  - Keurig have partnered with a range of independent companies to provide a huge range of K-Cup varieties, including coffee sources such as Green Mountain Coffee, Diedrich Coffee Roasters, Van Houtte and Timothy’s, Tea brands such as Celestial Seasonings, Bigelow’s and Twinings. They have a large range of blends, covering categories including Extra Bold Roasts (30% more coffee per brew), Dark, Medium & Light Roast, Flavored, Decaffeinated, Fair Trade Certified and Organicm as well as Teas and Hot Cocoa.
• Nespresso Capsules – As might be expected by now, the Nespresso Capsules only work with Nespresso single cup coffee makers, with the difference here being that these are the machines that can provide a true espresso, utilizing pressures in excess of the accepted minimum of 9 BAR to force the water through the ground coffee.
  - One thing to be aware of with the Nespresso system is that while the Nespresso machines are available in various retail locations, the Nespresso capsules are not, but rather have to be purchased directly from Nespresso, either online, via phone or mail or at Nespresso Boutiques. As a result, the ‘running costs’ tend to be somewhat higher than for other systems, which might need to be taken into consideration before purchasing a Nespresso single cup coffee maker.
• Nescafe Dolce Gusto Capsules – These are relatively new to the market, but are backed by Nescafe and Krups. There’s a certain overlap between Nescafe’s Nespresso range and this range, but the focus of the Dole Gusto range appears to be on the home market and allowing them to cup a wider range of drinks that just espressos, which is the focus of the Nespresso.
  - The Dolce Gusto capsule range include Caffe Americano, Mocha, Espresso, Chococino, Cappuccino as well as variations such as Cappuccino Skinny and Cappuccino Ice.

The Nespresso range is probably the option for the true enthusiast, although the Nescafe Dolce Gusto range also uses a professional-level 15-bar pressure system and is worth considering. If new to single cup coffee makers, however, it might be worth starting with a Coffee Pod machine such as the Philips Senseo before seeing if investing in a more expensive system is needed.

Finally, one tip – the results from all the systems can often be improved if you are able to ensure that your mug is warmed before adding the coffee – Give it a try!

For more articles on Coffee and Single Serve Coffee, see the Coffee Pod Guide.

Author: Gwyn Evans
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Guest blogger

The making of special coffee had for long been the domain of professionals at coffeehouses. Then with the advent of the coffee makers the coffee beverages came within grasp of householders and office goers. And now with the single serving coffee makers or one cup coffee makers coming in each and every individual can brew up their own specialty coffee drinks as and when required. Further, with coffee pod compatibility, the one cup coffee makers can get started with brewing perfect blends of coffee of superior grade.

Variety of ‘designed’ coffees- blending and flavoring

Flavored coffee of hundreds of available varieties can be brewed using the one cup coffee makers of choice. Quite like artists, the blenders have been preparing or rather ‘designing’ exotic blends. Each of the blends created has a distinct taste and flavor of its own.

An Indonesian blend- a combination of the Sumatran and Papua New Guinea beans has been developed that ensure full bodied brews that are full of flavor. Sumatran beans, when mixed with Colombian Patron produce dark, smoky coffee. Papua, New Guinea, Sumatra- all are newfound regions from where new kinds of coffee beans are procured to give rise to new special blends.

Just as blending of different beans is being carried out in a new and innovative manner similarly adding of flavorings to coffee is also being pursued. A number of flavors like cherry, almond or vanilla that were hitherto unknown of in respect of coffee flavoring are being newly introduced. The acidity production in body system that is associated with coffee intake (owing to the presence of caffeine) is also being softened by the addition of suitable flavors (extracts or essences).

Special one cup coffee makers for brewing special drinks

With the one cup coffee maker at hand you can concoct some special beverage as and when you wish to in a quick and convenient manner. You can also obviate any wastage as only a measured single serving is brewed. There are a number of special models of one cup coffee makers including- Salton MES2 1-Cups Coffee brewer with 6 Melitta roasts to choose from, Keurig B100 1-Cups maker with special functionalities for ensuring the freshest and most delicious coffee and Black & Decker AM8 1 Cup Maker- a Home Café System with pressure brewing technology promising best extraction.

So, with the one cup coffee makers you can best carry out your experimentation with different tastes of coffee. A cup of decaffeinated coffee (decaf), frozen cappuccino, chocolate mint flavored coffee- all are best readied using the one cup coffee makers of choice.

Tania Penwell provides information on one cup coffee makers for A1 Coffee Makers – Your Guide to Coffee Makers, Accessories, and Gourmet Coffee.

Author: Tania Penwell
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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If you have not discovered the ease and popularity of coffee pods yet, you do not know what you are missing. Coffee pods are single serving, pre-measured coffee enclosed in little pods. The pods are specialty paper that is used to keep the roasted, ground coffee contained and look much like tea bags you might find in the stores. These coffee pods are typically perfect for making instant coffee.

With coffee pods, you no longer have to measure the right about of coffee or even worry about that mess you might make with the grounds all over the counter. These pods allow you to simply skip all of that, saving both time and money on wasted grounds. They come in various sizes, which is perfect for whatever strength or amount of coffee you want and it even keeps your coffee machine that much cleaner, which lowers the amount of maintenance it needs.

Coffee pods even have their own machines. These coffee makers are specific to coffee pods and cater to the needs of any fussy coffee drinker. Many people prefer the coffee pods to traditional means of making coffee because it just saves time and effort. All you have to do is fill the coffee maker with water, put the coffee pod right in, and turn it on. In just a few short minutes, you will have made a great cup of coffee, ready for drinking.

Coffee pods come in a variety of your favorite coffee flavors. You can choose from Irish cream, hazelnut, or vanilla. Of course, traditional coffee flavors such as regular or decaffeinated coffee can be found in coffee pods as well. Depending on the flavor of the pod, as well as the specific roast types, the prices will vary accordingly. Coffee pods can be found in the aisle of your favorite coffee shop or local supermarket.

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Author: Danny Brown
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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It is always something new and exciting in the world for coffee drinkers. And Coffee pods are the latest craze. What Coffee pods are, is a small paper enclosure, similar to a tea bag that holds an amount of roasted coffee that is freshly ground and measured to a specific amount and then encased in this small a paper bag like container.

To make a pot of coffee using a pod in simple, all that you need to do is place the pod into the filter department of your coffee maker and the procedure is then the same as normal. The result is a consistent, delicious pot of coffee every single time. Then when you are finished, you just remove the used pod and dispose of it straight into the trash. No mess, less waste and completely fuss free.

Many manufacturers are now making coffee machines specifically for pods, however you can still make coffee using a pod with any coffee maker that you already own. Many companies are now producing and selling adapters so that you can use a pod in the filter of your coffee maker easily.

In our ever increasing fast paced society, using a coffee pod is a time saver as well. By using a coffee pod, you can skip the often time consuming step of measuring out your coffee grounds each time you want to make a pot of coffee. Coffee pods are now available in a wide variety of flavors and blends and you can even purchase organic pods.

Coffee pods are typically a generic size that is geared to fit most espresso machines. All you need to do is simply open your single wrapped pod, place the pod inside the filter of your machine, turn the coffee maker on and wait for the machine to go throught the process and deliver you a delicious cup of coffee.

Using pods can be beneficial in virtually every environment where coffee is consumed. In restaurants and cafes, coffee pods are convenient because they save time therefore increasing the level of productivity on site. You will also save money by cutting down on the wear and tear of the grinders.

Many office buildings find coffee pods convenient as well because they allow people to quickly produce high quality product. Remember to store your coffee pods properly. The individually wrapped coffee pods should be placed in a sealed container and kept somewhere that is cool and dark. Make certain that you do not store your pods in the fridge.

If you have a coffee maker that works with pods, but are a little put off on the cost of purchasing pods, you can easily create your own pods at home. First of all, you will need a measuring scoop that is stainless steel and that can fit into the pod holder on your pod maker. Measuring scoops that are 1/3 of a cup are typically the ideal fit. You will also need a jar or even a glass that will fit tight into your measuring scoop. You will also need to purchase filters for a four-cup machine that are of a Mr. Coffee style. It is important to ensure that the filters fit tightly.

Take one of the filters and spread in evenly over the end of the jar or glass. Now, press the jar into the measuring scoop until there is a tight edge along the bottom of the measuring cup. Take the jar away and add approximately two teaspoons of coffee grounds to the paper filter. Adjust the amount depending on how strong you prefer your coffee. With your fingers, fold any extra filter to fully cover the coffee grounds making sure that your folds are even. Use the jar to again press down inside of the scoop very hard. Invert the scoop and remove your new coffee pod. Creating your own coffee pods saves you money, and also allow you to create your favorite blends and strength of coffee.

Do You LOVE good coffee? Heather is a qualified barista and shares many of her great coffee making tips. Register for Your FREE copy of the Health and Happiness Mag, that includes tips on coffee making like the professionals at http://www.womensinfoproducts.com/food/coffee

Author: Heather Richards
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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If you are gearing up to buy a coffee maker you need to be clear about your taste and requirement. Buying home a coffee maker has become a necessity with the increasing dependence on coffee for kick starting the day to day tasks. Your morning can’t be perfect without a mug full of coffee.

But the availability of a wide variety of coffee makers in the market can make it difficult for you to zoom in on one machine. For, all these differing genres of coffee makers have their own benefits. However your acquaintance with basic features of a coffee machine would help you in choosing a good coffee maker.

The basic facility of removing coffee pot without waiting for coffee brewing to be over must be available with your machine. With your coffee machine you should be able to immediately serve the coffee. Your machine must be equipped with coffee pod facility. That means you should be able to make coffee with pre-packed coffee pods in no time. Most of the machines come with this pod compatibility.

You must also check coffee makers against digital features. A good coffee maker would come with a digital display panel attached with a timer and auto off mechanism. This feature is very beneficial for home use as auto off would let you pay attention to other things in home, while you are making coffee.

An efficient water filtering equipment happens to be an integral part of superior quality coffee makers. Its presence ensures that your coffee won’t get a bad flavor due to excess iron and other unwanted content of water.

You may also look for a coffee maker that offers you a bean grinder that is integrated with the machine. These grinders grind only few beans to give needed amount of coffee. This feature results in a flavor that carries tinge of freshness with itself.

If you happen to be a great coffee enthusiast, you might be having a craving to prepare specialty coffee drinks of Barista at home. For that you can have an espresso coffee maker at home. A superior espresso machine offers you a variety of drinks that you would love to have as well as offer to your guests.

Gone are the days for semi automatic and automatic genres of coffee makers. Super automatic home coffee makers have come on the block and are in great demand. This machine comes with various special features and in no time it completes the coffee making process from bean grinding to offering coffee require only few seconds.

So, buy a coffee maker with latest features to enjoy the coffee with finest flavors in no time. Coffee making won’t be an ordeal with the new coffee maker, I bet!

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Author: Joann Grant
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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