Home Roasted and Home Brewed Coffee

Some time ago I was introduced to the idea of roasting my own coffee beans at home.  Little did I know what had just been started.  I purchased a Behmor 1600 coffee bean roaster, some green coffee beans and got to work.  While that was really cool, the more I read and researched, the more I realized how many other things there were that could affect my “superfresh” coffee.  In my quest, I began to realize how many ways there are to brew coffee at home and that not all of them take a machine that costs thousands of dollars.  Let me share some of what I have learned, because I tell you what; I’m enjoying some great coffee.

First, I’ve learned that it is important to be able control the temperature of your water and it doesn’t hurt to have an attractive kettle.  If you can swing it, I would suggest purchasing something like the Bonavita Digital Electric 1 Liter Kettle.  This is an attractive machine that gives you the control that you want.  A little pricey for a kettle at $90.00, however, it’s been worth it to me.  I like it.  There are cheaper alternatives.

Secondly, the grind is very important, so once more you need to be able to control it.  For this I purchased a Zassenhaus burr hand grinder at about $120.00.  Subsequent to that I purchased a Capresso electric burr grinder at about $70.00 which has performed well.  It is important to have a burr grinder vs. a spice grinder which is a whole different subject.  Bottom line is that you get a much more consistent grind with a burr grinder.

French Press – The first machine I bought at about $40.00.  A very attractive addition to your kitchen that brews a great cup of coffee.  You should use a coarse grind of coffee.  The result is a strong, rich and smooth cup of coffee.  Some people don’t like the sediment in the cup; however, just don’t drink the last sip.

Moka Express – This machine is by Bialetti at $25.00   and you find one in almost every home in Italy.  It is the original.  Again, a good strong cup of coffee.  It is not exactly the same as a machine generated espresso, however, I really like it.  In my opinion, it is your best stove top espresso.  It makes a great cup of Cuban coffee and/or a café con leche, as well.

Aeropress – This was my third purchase at $26.00.  In my opinion, this is the best out of the three.  It doesn’t add much to your décor (looks like a science experiment); however, what it lacks in aesthetics, it by far makes up for it in a great cup of coffee.  Makes a wonderful Americano.  You should use a fine grind for this one.

None of these are difficult to use and they all take less than five minutes once your water is hot.

If I had to pick one machine, it would be the aeropress; it is the easiest to use, easiest to clean up after and is the most versatile.  That being said, I am happy to have all three.  They all produce their own unique cup of coffee.   

Thanks for reading,

Mike

The Bald Barista