The carob coffee maker is used to prepare espresso, which can be supplemented with thick milk froth. This type of coffee brewing device is used by a wide range of people, from those who prepare a drink for the needs of the family to professional baristas working on a commercial basis. In the current article, we will highlight two main types of carob coffee makers and name their differences, indicate the selection criteria for the purchase, and also provide a selection of the best models.
Content
What is a carob coffee maker - how it works
A similar name arose due to the presence of a small container for falling asleep ground coffee or inserting a compressed tablet, which is called a horn. Another name used in foreign countries is holder.
Reference. In some models, there are two horns at once, which allows you to fill several cups of drink at the same time. Such options have a semi-automatic or automatic coffee preparation system and are designed for large volumes.
The general method of operation of horn coffee makers is based on the process of heating water, which is forced through the coffee under pressure and poured into the cup. The design of the device can also be provided with an additional steam outlet, which is necessary for the preparation of milk froth.
Types of carob coffee makers
Based on the general principle of operation, carob coffee makers are divided into two main varieties - steam and pump. Their difference lies in the force of pressure with which water is supplied, which affects the taste of the drink. Let us consider these types in more detail, highlighting their features, positive and negative sides.
Steam
This type of carob coffee maker has a simple design and the following principle of operation:
- The water collected in a special tank is heated to a temperature of 98-100 degrees.
- Steam is formed from heating, its pressure does not exceed 4 atmospheres - this is the maximum value that can be achieved without additional structural elements.
- The pressure acts on the water, which begins to flow out of the tank, passing through the coffee in the cone.
The main features of steam coffee makers include:
- the water tank is small, since it requires uniform and strong heating to work;
- no thermostat - the water is brought almost to a boil;
- low pressure;
- a rougher taste of coffee at the exit, which is explained by the conditions of preparation - brewing takes place with very hot water;
- There is a manual cappuccinatore.
Considering the indicated features of this type of apparatus, we highlight the advantages of their use:
- affordable cost - from 3 thousand rubles;
- small dimensions, great for compact kitchens;
- preparation lasts 2-4 minutes, which is an average: less time is spent in a pump coffee maker, more in a drip one;
- due to the high brewing temperature, more caffeine gets into the drink - it becomes stronger.
There were also some drawbacks:
- low pressure;
- there is no possibility to regulate the temperature - coffee is brewed almost with boiling water, which reduces its aroma;
- the built-in water tank is enough for 2-4 cups of espresso;
- a limited number of recipes that can be used during preparation - this is a basic espresso and cappuccino;
- some users have difficulty learning how to use the cappuccinatore.
Steam-type horn coffee makers will be a great purchase for a small family or a person who lives alone. Also, the purchase should be recommended to those who are just taking the first steps in making natural coffee and do not want to overpay.
pump action
A pump coffee maker works on a similar principle, but has two significant differences:
- Water is heated to a temperature of 92-95 degrees.
- Water is injected under high pressure (average 15 bar) due to the use of a pump in the design.
Such changes make it possible to achieve the preservation of the entire spectrum of aromatic components of the grains.
Reference. The pumps necessary to increase the pressure are used in two types: vibrating and rotary.The former are used in household appliances and satisfy the needs of most users. The latter are installed in professional equipment and are distinguished by the stability of the supplied pressure.
Distinctive features of pump coffee makers:
- high pressure;
- different volume of the built-in water tank;
- the presence of a thermostat that allows you to set the temperature of heating water;
- the possibility of using more recipes;
- coffee has a richer taste;
- the cost is higher than in steam coffee makers;
- there are models with additional functions: fast steam, several filter sizes, cup warmers, etc.
Advantages:
- cooking speed ranges from 30-60 seconds;
- optimal supply water temperature;
- the presence of additional functions: automatic shutdown, thermostat, etc.
Among the shortcomings, only the rather high cost and dimensions of the apparatus, which depend on the volume of the tank, stand out. This type of coffee maker is suitable for coffee connoisseurs who prepare more than two cups of drink per day.
What types of drinks can be prepared?
There are not so many options for making coffee. In steam varieties of devices, these are espresso and cappuccino. In pump-actions, lungo, americano and latte are added to the list.
Important. In coffee makers, not only ground coffee is used, but also special compressed tablets called pods. They simplify the cooking process and allow you to somewhat diversify the taste.
How to choose a carob coffee maker
The choice of a coffee maker is based on certain criteria, such as pressure, volume of the built-in tank, power of the heating element, materials used in the construction, etc.Let's consider each of them in more detail in order to get an accurate idea of the characteristics of the device, suitable for specific needs.
Pressure
The main purpose of the carob coffee maker is the preparation of espresso. This drink requires a pressure of 8-9 bar. Consequently, steam coffee makers, in principle, are not able to give the user the “correct” espresso - they will receive a drink that is something in between a strong Americano and a product of a geyser coffee maker.
The pump version in this regard fully meets the requirements, however, one should not be led to too high pressure, which is offered by manufacturers paired with an increase in the cost of equipment. It may only be required when using a cappuccinatore.
Volume
For domestic use, a 0.5-0.6 liter tank will suffice. If the equipment is purchased for the office, then the volume should be increased to 1.5 liters and above.
Power
The power of the device depends on how quickly the water in the tank heats up. Therefore, it is logical to take a coffee maker for 1100-1700 W for large capacities, for medium ones - 800-1000 W.
materials
The material used in the manufacture of the case does not play a big role in the preparation of coffee. Only the durability of the equipment and resistance to possible mechanical damage depends on it.
Much more attention should be paid to the water tank - if it is made of cheap plastic, then there will be an unpleasant smell. In addition, over time, plastic can begin to flake off, crack, spoil the taste of the drink.Ideally, the tank should be an appropriately coated metal tank made from quality plastic, fiberglass, or borosilicate glass.
The base of the horn (where the coffee is placed) should be metal - preferably stainless steel. This will eliminate the possibility of a quick breakdown due to high temperature or mechanical pressure.
Number of horns
One horn is enough for home use of the device. Two horns are necessary for a large family or when operating a coffee maker in the office.
Ergonomics
It is worth starting the selection according to this criterion with the dimensions of the device. For your own kitchen, it is better to give preference to compact coffee makers that will have the required power reserve.
It is important to pay attention to the location of the controls, as well as the ease of use. An additional division occurs in terms of human participation in the cooking process. There are those that have a programmed dosage and prepare the drink on their own, and those that require direct control and timely shutdown of the water supply.
Since the device needs regular cleaning, it should be easy to disassemble and reassemble.
Additional functions
Additional features include:
- the presence of a cappuccinatore that allows you to foam milk;
- button for emergency shutdown of the process;
- automatic descaling;
- leakage protection;
- automatic shutdown - protects the motor from overheating in case of prolonged inactivity.
Price
The starting price for carob-type coffee makers is 3-3.5 thousand rubles. If the device comes across cheaper, then it should at least arouse suspicion. The golden mean is in the range of 9-10 thousand km.rubles - these are reliable and high-quality models from well-known manufacturers with a pump-action pressure supercharger that will delight their owners for many years.
The best carob coffee makers for home
In conclusion, we present a list of the most popular and well-proven carob coffee makers:
- De'Longhi EC 685 - the brand has gained recognition due to the long service life of the equipment. This is the newest model of the line, which is characterized by a high speed of making coffee for two cups, the ability to make tea, the convenience of controls and ease of cleaning. Power 1.3 kW, pressure 15 bar, tank volume 1.1 liters.
- Kitfort KT-718 is an inexpensive model from a brand that has managed to earn the trust of users. The horn is suitable for ground coffee, it is possible to prepare cappuccino and tea with a spill into two cups. Power 0.85 kW, pressure 15 bar, tank volume 1.5 liters.
- Gaggia Viva Style is a novelty of 2019, distinguished by a pleasant price. The device works with two types of coffee: ground and in pods. There is a cup warmer and all the necessary emergency options. Power 1.025 kW, pressure 15 bar, tank volume 1.25 liters.
- Polaris PCM 4007A is an affordable model from a popular brand that has received high marks from users on Yandex.Market. Given the modest cost, there are only standard features and overheating protection. Power 0.8 kW, pressure 4 bar (steam type), tank volume 0.2 liters.
- VITEK VT-1522 BK is a reliable model in a classic design. A distinctive feature is the presence of a built-in milk tank (0.4 liters).Given the characteristics, we can say that it will be enough for a large family or even a small cafe. Power 1.4 kW, pressure 15 bar, water tank volume 1.4 liters.
The recommendations presented in the article will help with the choice of a carob coffee maker, which will exactly meet the needs of the buyer. It is important to pay attention to the type of apparatus, its power, the volume of the built-in tank and other additional criteria. For a small family, the characteristics can be very modest, while they will be quite enough, while for the needs of the office you will need to purchase more powerful equipment.
Similar articles:
