How Freeze Dried Coffee is Made

Freeze dried coffee is instant coffee and is also called soluble coffee or coffee powder. It is a beverage derived from brewed coffee beans that have been either freeze-dried or spray dried. Most instant coffee is commercially prepared by either of these methods, which can be rehydrated later. The first instant coffee was invented in 1901 by Satori Kato, a Japanese scientist working in Chicago. Some say Kato introduced the powdered substance even earlier in the early 1880^s in Buffalo, New York, at the Pan-American Exposition. George Constant Louis Washington, an American inventor and businessman, developed his own instant coffee process shortly thereafter, and first marketed it commercially in 1910. The Nescafé brand, derived from Nestle and café, was developed after seven or eight years by Max Morgenthaler. It was introduced after a more advanced coffee refining process and was launched on April 1, 1938.

High-vacuum freeze-dried coffee was developed shortly after World War II, as an indirect result of wartime research into other areas. Today, coffee beans are commercially roasted to bring out the flavor and aroma. Rotating cylcinders is where beans and combustion gases are used and at 325 °F the poping sounds of roasting begin. Depending on the roast desired it takes from eight to fifteen minutes for the entire roasting process with about 25-75% efficiency. The coffee roasting process using a fluidized bed only takes from thirty seconds to four minutes; and, it operates at lower temperatures that  allows greater retention of the coffee bean aroma and flavor. The beans are then finely ground by sets of scored rollers that crush the beans into .020 to 0.043 inch pieces in order to allow the coffee to be put in solution with water called extraction for the drying stage. In perculation columns at temperatures of 308° to 350 °F this concentrates the coffee solution to about 15-30% coffee by mass. The solution may be further concentrated before the drying process begins by either vacuum evaporation or freeze concentration.

This freeze-drying, also known as lyophilisation, lyophilization or cryodesiccation, is a dehydration process where coffee in this instance is frozen and then the water is removed by sublimation. Sublimation transitions a substance from the solid phase to the gas phase without passing through a liquid phase to preserve the ground coffee; it also makes coffee more convenient for transport. Freeze-drying works by freezing the ground coffee material and then reducing the surrounding pressure to allow the frozen water in the coffee to sublime; that is, to go from a solid phase to a gas phase.

Advantages of instant coffee include the speed and simplicity of preparation. Instant coffee dissolves instantly in hot water that can be boiled in 2 minutes or less in an electric tea kettle. It has a lower shipping weight per volume than beans or ground coffee to prepare the same amount and it has a much longer shelf life as long as the instant coffee is kept dry. If it is not kept dry, it will spoil.

Another advantage of instant coffee in the powder or granulated form is that it is contained in glass jars, sealed packets or tins. The user can control the strength of the coffee product, by adding more or less powder to the water, ranging from thin "coffee water" to very strong and almost syrupy coffee. Instant coffee is also convenient for putting predetermined amounts in small plastic bages for iced coffee as well as for using hot milk instead of boiling water. 

Freeze dried coffee is instant coffee and is also called soluble coffee or coffee powder. It is a beverage derived from brewed coffee beans that have been either freeze-dried or spray dried. Most instant coffee is commercially prepared by either of these methods, which can be rehydrated later. The first instant coffee was invented in 1901 by Satori Kato, a Japanese scientist working in Chicago. Some say Kato introduced the powdered substance even earlier in the early 1880^s in Buffalo, New York, at the Pan-American Exposition. George Constant Louis Washington, an American inventor and businessman, developed his own instant coffee process shortly thereafter, and first marketed it commercially in 1910. The Nescafé brand, derived from Nestle and café, was developed after seven or eight years by Max Morgenthaler. It was introduced after a more advanced coffee refining process and was launched on April 1, 1938.

High-vacuum freeze-dried coffee was developed shortly after World War II, as an indirect result of wartime research into other areas. Today, coffee beans are commercially roasted to bring out the flavor and aroma. Rotating cylcinders is where beans and combustion gases are used and at 325 °F the poping sounds of roasting begin. Depending on the roast desired it takes from eight to fifteen minutes for the entire roasting process with about 25-75% efficiency. The coffee roasting process using a fluidized bed only takes from thirty seconds to four minutes; and, it operates at lower temperatures that  allows greater retention of the coffee bean aroma and flavor. The beans are then finely ground by sets of scored rollers that crush the beans into .020 to 0.043 inch pieces in order to allow the coffee to be put in solution with water called extraction for the drying stage. In perculation columns at temperatures of 308° to 350 °F this concentrates the coffee solution to about 15-30% coffee by mass. The solution may be further concentrated before the drying process begins by either vacuum evaporation or freeze concentration.

This freeze-drying, also known as lyophilisation, lyophilization or cryodesiccation, is a dehydration process where coffee in this instance is frozen and then the water is removed by sublimation. Sublimation transitions a substance from the solid phase to the gas phase without passing through a liquid phase to preserve the ground coffee; it also makes coffee more convenient for transport. Freeze-drying works by freezing the ground coffee material and then reducing the surrounding pressure to allow the frozen water in the coffee to sublime; that is, to go from a solid phase to a gas phase.

Advantages of instant coffee include the speed and simplicity of preparation. Instant coffee dissolves instantly in hot water that can be boiled in 2 minutes or less in an electric tea kettle. It has a lower shipping weight per volume than beans or ground coffee to prepare the same amount and it has a much longer shelf life as long as the instant coffee is kept dry. If it is not kept dry, it will spoil.

Another advantage of instant coffee in the powder or granulated form is that it is contained in glass jars, sealed packets or tins. The user can control the strength of the coffee product, by adding more or less powder to the water, ranging from thin "coffee water" to very strong and almost syrupy coffee. Instant coffee is also convenient for putting predetermined amounts in small plastic bages for iced coffee as well as for using hot milk instead of boiling water.

Differences between Coffee Makers

Coffee maker differences can be seen in many ways just by looking at them, but there are differences that can't be seen as well. One obvious difference that can be seen is in the types of coffee maker such as French press, vacuum, drip coffee maker, pre-heated water, espresso maker, percolator and urn. Other obvious differences can be seen in size by the number of cups of coffee they make at a time. Not only the maximum, but the various amounts of coffee they will make at a time.

One last obvious difference is what the coffee is brewed into. These include one that has an internal thermal holding area such as in a brew station where coffee is poured by pressing a lever so coffee goes into a cup, carafe of some kind or a thermal container of some kind.   

French press coffee makers require hot water from a separate source while a vacpot, which is called a siphon brewer or vacuum brewed coffee that uses hot or cold water depending how one wants to use it. Another that requires hot water may not be considered a coffee maker, but the coffee dripper that has a filter in it and sits on your coffee cup or mug does make coffee.

The most common coffee maker is a drip coffee maker. This is true whether it is a pour over where hot water is poured over the grounds or hot water is pumped up from a side source and allowed spray water over the grounds. These coffee makers have two shapes of filters known as the cone and the basket shape that has more drip area. Some drip coffee makers offer a low electric heated hot plate while others offer radiant heat. Drip makers come in closed, sealed and open coffee dispensing. Closed and sealed dispensing systems often close off the flavor and aroma while the coffee is being made.

Those that pre-heat the water include Bunn coffee makers. These coffee makers are great when you need another pot of coffee in a hurry. Some offer a fresh 12 cups of coffee in as little as 2.5 or 3 minutes. Another advantage of this type of coffee maker, which is claimed by many, is that the preheated water makes a much better tasting cup of coffee.

Espresso coffee machines make coffee under a pressure system that is usually at 15 bar of pressure. Note here, there are other coffee machines that make coffee under pressure, but true espresso machines are at 15 bar. The coffee grounds are much finer than regular coffee thus a thicker liquid is produced by the steam that is driven through the coffee. Espresso machines also appear different and work differently as well. A manual pump machine is just that a manual machine where you do every step. A semi automatic does some of the process and can be set on how to them. The super automatic is fully automatic. It will make different kinds of espresso that you can select, it will then grind the coffee to your specifications and brew your selection the number of times you want it made. Some super automatics allow you to make different selections of espressos at the touch of a button.  

Percolators and Urns are also different in appearance, but make coffee the same way. Cold water is put in the bottom and heat is applied to the water. Once these makers are turned on the water begins to heat and be pumped up through a tube that ends above the coffee basket. Some makers wait for the water in the bottom to heat some before the perking process begins. When the perking has finished the coffee is ready to drink piping hot. Many feel this is real coffee as it is usually a stronger tasting coffee than other methods.

The unseen differences are in the way the coffee maker is made. Does it have more plastic than others, is it programmable or digital and how much does it cost. Other unseen differences are in warranties, how the coffee taste and the wattage it will use to make the coffee. Whether it is a single coffee maker, a pod maker, or a multi-cup coffee maker, percolator, urn or espresso machine they all make coffee, but how well and for how long often remain the greatest unseen differences of all.  

Cheap Coffee Makers to Help You Get Your Caffeine Fix

Cheap most often refers to a low cost; it can also relate to cheap quality. When you say cheap, it can also mean both cheap in cost and cheap in quality. However, most coffee makers made today are made to last longer than one year and yet come with a limited warranty for one year. This length of a one year warranty often relates to a cheap maker; yet, some say these with a limited warranty will last just beyond a year and with their low cost are looked on as cheap. However, this is not always the case. Some coffee makers have a one year limited warranty and last for many years. If you want a cheap one that is low in price and has a one year limited warranty, a bit of research through consumer reviews for these may lead to one that may be cheap in price, but will actually last a good number of years.

One of the interesting points about many people who buy what they consider to be an inexpensive coffee maker is that they do not bother to fill out and send in the registration card that comes with it. Unless you send in the registration card, your warranty becomes null and void as the company does not have any way of knowing when you bought it. If, however, you have saved the original sales slip for that specific maker and the specific date is clearly marked when you bought it, some companies will honor their warranty. Those who did neither often remark: it was a cheap one anyway.

So what is considered a cheap coffee maker when talking about the price? There are many that are less than twenty dollars. But when you type in cheap coffee makers on the internet, you will find coffee makers that cost all the way up to almost two hundred dollars. This is, of course, an advertising statement that prices for the ones advertised are supposedly at a cheaper price; that is, below the cost that many other companies are asking for the same ones. If you are interested in these, note the statements in the last paragraph.

All these points of view from sellers and buyers are made so people can get their morning caffeine fix. Whether you drink just one cup of coffee in the morning or brew twelve cups of coffee for two people, the need for a new coffee maker you will most likely cause you to look for one with a cheaper price no matter the cost. You may also look for one that has a longer warranty. However, the best advice is to look at your needs for the amount of coffee you will be making on a regular basis and the kind of coffee maker that fits your life style. Check out the prices, warranty and consumer reviews for the best kind of coffee maker for you so that you can enjoy your morning fix of caffeine.

Low Acid and Acid Free Coffee

There is a great request for low acid and acid free coffee. This is due to people who say they have extreme reactions to the acid in coffee. And, this condition makes it necessary for them to stop drinking coffee all together or find another recourse. Both low acid and acid free coffee have seemed to save the day for many; especially for their morning cup of coffee. But, are low acid and acid free coffee the only answer?

According to Brainiac, low acid coffee is made by cold brewing, and can be safely consumed by sufferers of acid reflux or gastrointestinal problems caused by drinking heat brewed coffee. The process reduces up to 67% of the acid, and doesn't affect the taste or aroma. Make enough coffee to create a concentrate that can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks before discarding. There are a number of different recipes with steps to follow like this link below from Brainiac.

There are other alternatives according to other sources. They suggest Arabica coffees that are grown in the low lands of Sumatra, Brazil and Indonesia that naturally have less acid. Some dark roast coffees are also said to have less acid than lighter roasts. But, what about those who have other side effects from drinking coffee. These side effects include iron deficiency anemia and extreme heartburn, while others claim side effects as bad as chronic life threatening illnesses. Consumption of low acid coffee has been proven to be much healthier than regular coffee for many people. Despite these findings, research has not been able to prove that the acidity in coffee causes extreme reactions such as heartburn, acid reflux and indigestion.

Is commercially made acid free coffee better? Commercially made acid free coffee is made from nearly free of acid free Arabica beans to start with. They go through a purification process and are treated with a high pressure steam and vacuum procedure before they are roasted in way that takes out various harmful contents and irritants. These roasters note that the process is a very delicate one. If the bean is not roasted enough it will be like a green coffee bean and not taste good; and if the bean is roasted too much it becomes more acidic and gives a burnt flavor and or aroma to the coffee. This commercial process is highly attended to in order to have the quality that meets customers' requests and needs. Brainiac's recipe: Brainiac. Link to: http://www.ehow.com/how_4904365_low-acid-coffee.html

Whether you have any reaction to drinking coffee or not, low acid, acid free and decaffeinated coffee seems to be better for everyone. However, the question of low acidity or acid free seems to be answered for individual problems. No matter what you choose to drink be it regular, decaf low acid or acid free, you are one of the millions who look forward to at least one cup of coffee a day if not four or five cups a day.

How to Clean Different Commercial Coffee Urns

There are many different kinds of commercial urns that need to be cleaned daily and weekly or bi-weekly. Daily cleaning for most of them remains about the same.

Number one rule about cleaning urns: Never use chlorine bleach in any coffee urn. The chlorine will eat at the stainless steel and the silicone gaskets. Also, whether you are doing a daily cleaning or a bi-weekly cleaning never use soap, scouring powders, or abrasives of any kind to clean coffee brewing urns.

Automatic coffee urns must be cleaned daily after the last batch using the following steps: 1- Drain the urn; then, run a brew cycle with just very hot water. After spraying hot water into the liner, thoroughly brush the entire urn with a long handled brush. 2-Drain the water and repeat step one. 3 – Wash the wire brew baskets with urn cleaner and rinse thoroughly. The same process is required for the double or triple urns after they have been used.

Automatic urns must have a special scouring once a week. Scour the urn by first filling the urn and heat to maximum brewing temperature. Fill the liner with several gallons of water and add at least 1½ to 3 ounces of coffee urn cleaning compound. Set the thermostat to high; then, run a brew cycle of hot water. Allow the solution to remain in the liner for at least 30 minutes. Scrub the inside of both the liner and the cover with a long handled brush. Drain the cleaning solution from the liner. Rinse by running several brew cycles with the sprayhead centered over the liner. Be sure to drain the rinse water after each brew cycle.

To clean the gauge glass tube, turn off the power and turn off the water line to the urn. Use a long, thin gauge glass brush to clean the coffee gauge glass. Use the same brush to clean the fitting at the bottom of the liner and into the pipe that is connected to the coffee faucet.

It is an absolute necessity that Chinese hot tea urns, pour-over urns, midline and barista series urns need to be cleaned thoroughly at the end of each day. After spaying hot water in the stainless steel liner, thoroughly wash it with a soft brush using the hot water. Add one tablespoon of bicarbonate of soda to each gallon of water or you may use commercial urn cleaners. Commercial cleaners are not recommended for this type of urn. These urns should be turned off before each gauge glass should be cleaned with a hard bristle brush. Faucets should be taken apart and cleaned properly until fully clean. Daily cleaning for Midland urns and Barista series urns need to run through the brew cycle with hot water, brush the liner, drain the urn water again and repeat the process again. Wipe the liner covers and fill the liners with about one gallon of hot water to prevent coffee-oil burn-in.

Weekly or bi-weekly urn cleaning depends on the amount of use. For regular use, the Chinese hot tea urns, midline heat exchange and pump urns and Barista Series require somewhat the same method. Where it varies for one urn, it will be noted at that step. Step 1: Fill the liners with about a gallon of hot water. For midline urns and space saver urns leave the thermostat on "Brew". Step 2: Pour into the liner the recommended concentration amount of urn cleaner that is recommended for that particular urn. An excessive amount of cleaner will attack the stainless steel causing deterioration of the coffee urn. Use cleaners which have been used successfully: DIP-IT by Economics Laboratories, OXYLITE by Avril, Inc., Syndet Division and TEMP-KLEEN by Caddy Corp. of America. Step 3: Scrub the liner interior with a large plastic brush, rinse and drain the liner. For midline and space saver urns follow Step 3a: Clean the gauge glasses with a long narrow brush. Step 4: Rinse with the liners empty and the electricity off, remove the coffee faucets by unscrewing the large plastic wing-nuts which fasten the faucets. Scrub from the opening into the center of the urn with a long brush. Step 5: Unscrew the top of the faucet from it body and scrub it thoroughly. Clean the silicone seat cup with a soft cloth and soapy water. Step 6: Reassemble the faucets. Fill the liners with hot water and drain until the liner and make sure all parts are completely rinsed.

High speed brewing urns require a separate cleaning process because of the outer jacket. Step 1: When cleaning a high speed brewer, be sure the outer jacket is full of water. Step 2: Turn on the heat and fill the urn liner three-fourths full of water and use only urn cleaning compounds like those mentioned above. Step 3: Mix thoroughly and let stand for about 30 minutes. Step 4: Clean the gauge glass, faucet pipe, plugs etc. using a long handled brush. Be sure to clean the "lug nut" in the base of the liner. Step 5: Rinse the inside of the urn three to four times with hot water and scrub the urn each time you rinse. Step 6: Rinse all the parts well. Step 7: Leave a gallon or more of water in the urn. The amount of water depends on the size of the urn; the larger urns will need more water. Leave the cover partly open until the next use. If you used cold water, allow the urn to cool to prevent cracking the liner. Step 8: Clean urn baskets by dipping them in a solution of cleaning solution and then scrubbing them with a stiff brush.

Rinse thoroughly and let dry. Each Sprayhead should be checked to see that all holes are open, if not, scrub with a stiff brush until all holes are open. These cleaning methods cover a number of commercial urns. Check with the manufacturer for specific details about your particular commercial coffee urn.

How to Clean Commercial Coffee Brewers

Commercial coffee makers run from pod brewers to airpot and shuttle brewers to large urns. Each group has to be cleaned a certain way both daily and weekly or bi-weekly depending on its use. All cleaning should be done with the hottest water possible, which brings a word of caution for possible burns and a note this job should be done by professionals.

A prime example of this is the pod brewer. If a pod brewer is used more than twice a day, then it needs to be descaled once every three months. Regular descaling of not only the pod brewer but all commercial brewers will prolong the life of a brewer; it will also guarantee optimal brewing results for a long time.

Step one to clean a pod brewer: Fill one-fourth of the water reservoir with white vinegar, then fill with clean tap water up to the maximum line. Step 2: Place a 32 ounce container on the cup grate to catch the vinegar/water cleaning solution. Step 3: Activate the manual prime feature. Press and hold down the Brew button until about 9 ounces have been dispensed from the brewer. Step 4: Repeat this set two more times, making sure there is enough solution in the reservoir each time.

Step 5: The unit will then heat up normally and the brew button will turn green, indicating that the water has reached brew temperature. One minute later the button will turn yellow. Step 6: Wait ten minutes, this allows the solution to sit in the tank at brew temperature. Step 7: Refill the water reservoir with cool, clean, tap water to the maximum line. Step 8: Repeat steps 2, 3 and 4 using the water that you add in step 7, to purge the cleaning solution from the system. Step 9: Refill the water reservoir to the maximum indicator line and the unit will be ready to brew coffee or tea.

Grind and Brew coffee systems require daily cleaning of the cabinet and the warmers. The outside of the machine can be cleaned with a damp cloth, a household dusting spray or a stainless steel cleaner depending on the exterior of your grind and brew system. Do not ever use any abrasive as it will mar the finish. The warmer plate will maintain its appearance if cleaned regularly with a damp cloth for coffee stains. A detergent or sanitizer may be used for heavy deposits. For weekly cleaning, the slide valve under the cabinet hood should be wiped off with a clean dry cloth. Using finger tab open the slide valve with wipe the ground coffee from the inside of the spout, seal and slide valve. Use commercial grade urn cleaner as directed by manufacturer to clean the brew basket, airpots and decanters.

Commercial brewers that brew into a decanter or airpot should wash the brew funnel, decanter or decanters by hand. Never use a dishwasher as it may cause breakage of the decanter or brew funnel. Clean all plastic and stainless steel surfaces whenever necessary with a damp cloth and mild soap. Rinse the items thoroughly and wipe dry. Be sure to avoid any strong cleaners which my adversely affect the plastic parts. Remove stains on stainless steel parts with a Scotchbrite pad. Never use steel wool as it will mar the finish. Remove the sprayhead with a nut or the sprayhead itself once a week to prevent lime build-up and clogging of the holes in the sprayhead. If the sprayhead has extra build-up, use a soft brush like a soft toothbrush to clean if needed.

Shuttle brewers need to be cleaned weekly or bi-weekly depending on there use. To clean, fill the shuttle with a gallon of hot water. Pour the recommended concentration of urn cleaner into the shuttle liners. Do not overload as this will attack the stainless steel. DIP-IT and Oxylite are most recommended. Scrub the liner interior with a plastic bristle brush. Remove the knurled nut at the top of the gauge glass and clean the glass with a small bottle brush. Pour out the contents of the shuttle. Remove the handle assembly of the shuttle faucet by unscrewing the plastic bonnet. Gently wash the faucet shank with a bottle brush. Clean the warmer and bottom of the shuttle surfaces. These surfaces must be clean for proper heat transfer. Polish the exterior of the brewer with a stainless steel cleaner. Use the appropriate cleaner for brass, copper or vinyl if the optional finishes are present.

Cold Coffee Dispensers

Cold Coffee Dispensers are cold coffee machines. They use a liquid to make the cold coffee drink. Listed below are cold coffee dispensers from three companies that offer cold coffee drink dispensing at below 55°F. All these machines run on a 120 volt 15 amp circuit. The following are counter models that are between 26.5 inches and 40 inches high from Grindmaster, Cecilware and Bunn.

Grindmaster makes two styles of premix dispensers. Premix means that the mix must be premixed before you put it in the machine. If you mix more than you can put in the dispenser, you must store the remaining mixed part in a refrigerated unit. Crathco G-Cool innovative premix cold beverage dispensers come in five configurations. The single model, C-15-16 has as a bowl capacity of 5 gallons while the C-2D-16 double model has two 5 gallon bowls. The Focus Flavor Triple has one 5 gallon bowl and two 2.4 gallon bowls. The Mini-Duo has two 2.4 gallon bowls and the Mini Quattro has four 2.4 gallon bowls. All of these dispensers have a patented Tri-Cool evaporator with a large 3 sided cooling surface that refrigerates through the bowl. For cold coffee, a 360° merchandizing cappuccino graphic comes with a dispenser that cleans in half the time of a traditional dispenser. These dispensers when using more than 2 coffee drinks offer other cold beverages such as cold tea and juices.

Grandmaster also offers a Crathco® Classic Bubbler D models with MCX Mag Drive impellers. They have stainless steel side panels and drip tray and a two-piece stainless steel, drip-less pouring valve that is sanitary and easy to use and maintain. Its engineering allows full beverage cooling right down to the last drink. It has a super-strong, virtually unbreakable polycarbonate 5 gallon bowl or mini-bowl of 2.4 gallons with easy to read measuring units and a cover that gives lasting durability. This unit has an option for a 5 gallon frosted bowl surface that stimulates condensation while helping to hide product residue and offering added UV protection. Its unique evaporator and high efficiency pump cools faster and more efficiently for faster start-ups. Options include a spray and agitate circulation and whippers for frothier iced cappuccinos and coffee.

Cecilware's Arctic Series 20/PD premix deluxe cold beverage dispensers are classic bubbler style dispensers with magnetic drivem agitators. A one bowl pre-mix cold beverage dispenser offers a 5.4 gallon refrigerated bowl for longlasting refreshment while sacrificing minimal countertop space. The Artic deluxe and economy series are 26.5 inches high by 7 to 28.5 inches wide by 18.5 inches deep. The dispenser can be set for fast or gentle agitation to accommodate dairy products and is perfect for serving iced coffee, cappuccinos and other refreshing chilled drinks. The Cecilware Arctic 20/PE economy series has a 16 hp compressor and uses R134A refrigerant that will keep beverages chilled and ready for consumption for hours at a time. Both run on a 120V electrical circuit and is UL and NSF listed. The Cecilware Arctic Series comes in one to four 5 gallon bowl size models with an option for 3.17 gallon size bowls that hold a premix cold beverage. Because each bowl has its own motor, the four bowls operate independently of one another so that you have greater control over your beverages. The compact slow agitation series has a magnetic driven agitator and a very slow product agitation in 2.2 gallon bowls to reduce foaming. This series also comes as a one to four bowl model.

Bunn offers a Silver Series of cold coffee machines. The JDF models include Model BJDF 2 S, which has two dispensers and a lighted graphics Gourmet Ice® cold beverage system. Model JDF-2S Iced Coffee with filter has two dispensers. Both have an 8 pound ice bank that provides superior cold drink capacity. Three JDF-4 S Models come as a basic model, one with lighted graphics and one with water ice coffee in four flavors. All of these machines have one dispenser that will deliver, both frozen and ambient products increasing profits by lowering costs. All three 4 dispenser models have an 18 lb. ice bank for superior cold drink capacity. Both push-button and portion control are in the same machine.

Bunn notes that all five cold coffee machines offer a cost effective solution by providing superior performance in concentrated beverage dispensing along with assured drink consistency through there mixing technology. These machines pump and mix 2 + 1 to 11 + 1 beverage concentrations, including a 4 + 1 viscosity. The advanced pump is designed for easy setup, accuracy and durability. A 7 inch cup clearance easily accommodates cup size. The dispense flow rate is from 1 to 1.5 ounces per second. All come with a standard door lock. The only option available is a cold water dispenser.

When looking for consumer complaints about any of these dispensers, you won't find one. The requirements are so high and the quality is go good that Grindmaster-Cecilware and Bunn have never had a complaint about these commercial cold coffee dispensers according to company personnel.

Grindmaster Retail Coffee Grinders

Grindmaster makes 10 different commercial retail coffee grinders. Why ten and how are they different? A look at how they are different and how they are the same will answer part of why ten. All these retail grinders offer multiple grind particle profile selections and fast grinding speed, a compact space-saving design and precision burrs to provide the ultimate grinding performance on every model. They also have real differences. All grinders comes with easy-to-follow instructions, troubleshooting guides and a toll free service number affixed to the back of each grinder as well as in the manual.

The model number 495 has a 2 pound hopper, which is 907.2 grams of coffee beans. This built for heavy duty use. It has a powerful heavy-duty 1/2 hp motor with a circuit breaker built in and is suitable for all sizes of stores and shops. The grinding burrs are made of an extremely hard and war resistant alloy. Depending on the wear, the burrs may need a grind adjustment, which is in the manual; if the grind is coarser than normal after a normal adjustment, a new set of burrs need to be installed. These burrs are warranted for 3 years or 30,000 pounds of coffee, whichever comes first. The grinder itself is warranted for one full year on materials and workmanship.

Model number 810 has a 1.5 pound hopper and is designed for medium duty grinding use. This grinder is a compact space-saving size of only 7 inches wide and is ideal for both small and large stores where space is a premium. It has a powerful heavy-duty 1/3 hp motor with a built in circuit breaker that clicks off without any sound. It has user friendly features just set the bag under spout; turn knob to grind selections from percolator to espresso and press on button; press off button so the motor will not stop. This grinder has a unique contemporary style with custom colors and graphics available on quantity orders. This grinder allows bags from 8 to 11.5 inches in height. The grinding burrs are made of the same extremely hard and ware resistant alloy and it comes with the same burrs warranty as the 495 model of 3 years or 30,000 pounds of coffee, whichever comes first. The model 810S is the same grinder with an ETL sanitation listing.

Model 835 is a compact space-saving size of only 7 inch wide. It has a powerful heavy-duty 1/2 hp motor with a built in circuit breaker. This grinder is available in bold black or cardinal red and has the same user friendly operation; however pressing the off button is an option for the operator. This grinder has bi-fold lid on top for the hopper, has a grind selection from coarse to Turkish and allows bags from 8 to 11.5 inches in height. The grinding burrs are made of the same extremely hard and ware resistant alloy and it comes with the same burrs warranty as the 495 model of 3 years or 30,000 pounds of coffee, whichever comes first. The model 835S is the same grinder with an ETL sanitation listing.

Model 875 has a compact space-saving size of only 7 inches wide. It has a powerful heavy-duty 1/2 hp motor with a built in circuit breaker. It has a grind selection from Turkish to coarse with a fast grind time. The steep slope hopper promotes positive bean flow as it does on models 835 and 810. It also has a bi-fold lid to the hopper, separate start and stop push buttons, a positive action bag switch, which is on all the other grinders, and a stainless steel tidy tray with a pull out drawer and an attractive stainless steel front panel. The grinding burrs are made of the same extremely hard and ware resistant alloy and have a 4 year parts or 30,000 pounds of coffee warranty plus a 1 year labor warranty. All other components have a 2 years parts and 1 year labor warranty. This grinder is ideal for specialty shops, grocery stores, doughnut shops and convenience stores and is Grindmaster’s most popular grinder. Model 875S has an ETL sanitation listing.

Model 890 has the same wiring package as models 835 and 875. It also has the same compact space-saving size of only 7 inches wide. It has a powerful heavy-duty 1/2 hp motor with a built in circuit breaker. The 890 has the same form-factor and functionality as the 875, except that the burrs are the superior New European matched burrs, which provide exceptional grinding performance. The 890 has all the features of the 835, except it is taller, 27" high, to accommodate larger 3 pounds coffee bags. It has the steep slope hopper designed for positive bean flow that allows you to fill this size bag. It has a wide range of grinds, 11 settings, from very coarse, to percolator, drip and down to espresso and Turkish. It also has a fast grinding speed: 2 1/2 pounds per minute an automatic shutoff that stops the grinder when the bag is removed or when it jams. An under-tray can catch spills and efficient chaff spring with a clean-out feature. This model is available in red or black. This grinder has a 4 year parts or 30,000 pounds of coffee warranty plus a 1 year labor warranty. Model 890S has an ETL listing and model 890T has New European burrs for precision grinding and a 5 pound coffee bean hopper.

The ten commercial retail grinders are built to suit the needs of different customers. Although they have many similarities, the variety of types of grind selections, different coffee bean hopper sizes and different size bags of ground coffee that can be filled qualify as meeting some different needs. The amount of use they can handle and the size of motor contribute to more combinations that make them unique and just what customers are asking for all in a narrow width of 7 inches.

Saeco Technology in Three Espresso Machines

Saeco is a leader in the espresso manufacturing industry. Once known as Estro, it is now produces top-of-the-line espresso machines and coffeemakers that are aesthetically eye pleasing, are easy to use, and are all top quality. This trend is seen with the new Saeco Xelsis Digital ID, the Royal Professional and the Vienna Plus, which is a newer version of the Vienna Digital. These three top of the line espresso machines will be discussed here.

The Saeco Xelsis Digital ID is built to impress, thanks to a stainless steel body and stunning chrome-plated accents. It is one of the best high-end super-automatics with top-of-the-line components from beginning to end. An airtight sealed lid hopper with anti-UV coating keeps the beans fresher before being ground by the ceramic burr grinder. The Saeco Brewing System allows you to choose the strength and consistency of your coffee by turning a dial. It also has a pre-infusion, which can be turned from off to on or lengthened to suit your taste. A 54 ounce removable water tank includes an Intenza water filter has 2 stainless steel boilers ensure there is always water at the right temperature for brewing, steaming, or dispensing hot water. The Saeco Xelsis Digital ID has a streamlined, user-friendly design with an animated integrated fingerprint reader touch-screen interface for 6 user profiles for 6 personal custom beverages. Six cups can be stored on the metal drip tray as well. An automatic turn-on and energy save function keeps the Digital ID from wasting power. Included accessories are a manual and a removable milk carafe, lubricant for the brew group and a variety of helpful cleaning tools. The removable milk carafe automatically froths milk into your cup and will automatically clean itself after each use. It can also be used to keep milk in the refrigerator between uses. For micro-foam it has a separate steaming/hot water wand (with no panarello) that has strong steam press. The Saeco Xelsis Digital ID is ideal for business or home use for those who have simple technological skills and is backed with an extended two year parts and labor warranty.

The Saeco Royal Professional can also be used as a professional espresso machine without any problems. It is made to run on standard 120 volt current and is a super-automatic espresso machine. That is, you can select how much espresso to dispense with three buttons that program it to grind the coffee beans to a pre-set size of grind from coarse to very fine or by-pass and use pre-ground coffee. It then measures the right dose of ground beans and tampers the grounds, creates a thick crema espresso and deposits the spent grounds, called a puck, into an internal dump box. You can also use the LCD display that indicates when to add beans, water, decalcify, and when to adjust the brew group. For an individual taste, you can select how much espresso to dispense with three buttons to program exactly how you want your espresso. If you prefer to have a cappuccino you can immediately steam with the Panarello wand for frothing milk in a pitcher or cup while the Cappuccinatore extracts milk from a container, froths it, and then dispenses it into a cup for you. The Cappuccinatore comes as an accessory, but is a must for cappuccinos and frothed espresso drinks. One other important feature allows you to adjust the temperature of your coffee with 5 different settings: maximum, minimum, high, medium, and low.

The Saeco Vienna Plus is a super-automatic espresso machine that uses a system of sensors and lights to help you monitor the brewing process and signal when the machine needs to be re-supplied with water or coffee beans. It has a special pre-infusion program that increases the flavor and aroma and will extract espresso and steam milk in about 7 seconds. It also has a conical type burr grinder that grinds whole beans from 6 to 9 grams, which is controlled by a knob in the bean hopper. However, it does not like oily beans and it does not have a by-pass doser like the Royal Professional. Strength and volume of your coffee or espresso is controlled with a dial. This less expensive super automatic espresso machine has a 57 ounce water tank and offers hot water for tea other coffee beverages like that of the other super automatics. It has an integrated dump box for spent coffee grounds, which can hold up to 20 expended coffee portions.

Each of these super automatic espresso machines offers a different level of making espressos, coffee and more. They also require different levels of technological skills, but with the more advanced skills come more commercial value, more help and longer warranties. Each one also exemplifies part of a progression of advanced technology in the art of making espresso machines starting from the top.

 

LavAzza Coffee Blends

The LavAzza Company offers 12 blended coffees that come in two roast levels. Each has an organoleptic profile. An organoleptic profile involves different sensory properties of aroma and body, sweetness, intensity and roundness of taste, color, odor and feel. All LavAzza coffees are the highest quality of Arabica and Robusta beans. And at least one, will suit the most definitive palate. Try to imagine how each would suit your organoleptic profile.

Oro is a medium roast coffee of a mixture of extraordinarily sweet Arabica coffee beans that offers an intense, aromatic blend and brews well in all coffeemakers.

Rossa is a medium roast coffee that is a mixture of 70% Arabica and 30% Robusta beans. If you want to get a great start your morning, this full bodied blend with intense taste and full bodied coffee aroma will give you the charge and energy you desire no matter what coffee maker you use.

Crema E Gusto is a dark roast coffee that is a mixture 70% Robusta and 30% Arabica beans. This creamy and intense coffee has a well-balanced aroma that is full-bodied with a fragrant flavor, rich after aftertaste with chocolaty tones.

Caffe Crema is medium roast that is well-balanced and light for those who love their coffee in a large cup or mug.

Gran Aroma Bar is a medium roast coffee that is a mixture 40% Robusta coffee beans and 60% Arabica beans. This premium blend has an equal blend of aroma, body and intensity in flavor and taste; and it leaves a long-lasting flavor of a velvety crema that is quite delicate.

Club was created for a connoisseurs’ palate. This is a 100% Arabica coffee bean blend that is soft and delicate aromatically; yet, it is full-bodied with an intense aroma. The ideal coffee maker for this medium roast coffee is a mocha (moka) coffee pot or coffee maker. Part the Arabica varieties of beans come from small, selected high ground plantations where climatic conditions provide very high quality harvests in every season.

Il Perfecto Espresso is a medium roast of 100% Arabica beams. It is creamy with an unmistakable aroma and fragrance just like that of a café. This blend has a unique aroma and fragrance that is similar to the smell when you enter a café. If you are looking for this kind of full-bodied coffee that is somewhat intense and aromatic, you can now have it at home using either a coffeemaker or an espresso machine. To guarantee satisfying results takes more than highly technical machines and quality blends, it takes using a specially made, top-quality coffee bean product.

Tierra is a medium roasted blend of excellent 100% Arabica beans using the green coffees exclusively from three small-scale coffee-growing communities in Honduras, Peru and Colombia. These beans come from a LavAzza Tierra Project. A project of sustainable development aimed at improving the living conditions of the coffee-growers through environmental, economic and social actions.

Dek is a blend of 30% Robusta and 70% Arabica beans. This medium, yet delicate, aromatic aroma with a smooth body comes with a little intensity. The coffee blend is an exceptional fragrance that is fully-rounded. Its perfectly decaffeinated aroma and body is created by a natural process.

Decafeinato is made of 30% Robusta and 70% Arabica beans. It is a superior blend of coffee beans that has the intensity of an espresso, but without caffeine. The aroma is full-bodied with a medium body and intensity.

Caffe Espresso is a medium roast made of 100% Arabica beans that are very fragrant and aromatic. The ideal use for this espresso blend is “long coffee.” “Long coffee” is an espresso made with more water than normal.

Crema e Aroma is a medium roasted blend of 60% Robusta beans and 40% Arabica beans. This coffee aroma, body and intensity offers intense and aromatic flavor and that is consistent with long-lasting crema.

This was written to offer a sense of the organoleptic taste and a hint of the aroma for each of the blends. LavAzza blends are found all over the world and cater to the discriminated palate. Discriminating or not, they remain one of the most sought after coffee blends in many places around the world.

Nesco Coffee Bean Roaster 800W Deluxe Pro

The Nesco® Coffee Bean Roaster is fun and easy. The pre-set digital controls allow you to roast coffee beans in 20 to 30 minutes and have them ready for brewing. You can also create your own signature gourmet coffees from your favorite bean combinations. Using your favorite bean combinations allows you to achieve a wide range of distinct flavors and roasts up to 1/3 lb. of beans that equals 36 cups of coffee.

This 5 star roaster has an advanced patented catalytic technology and the powerful agitator along with its advanced catalytic converter significantly reduces smoke and odors. Less smoke and odors means a better tasting cup of coffee and makes this machine perfect for those who prefer to roast indoors. And, it is significantly quieter than most other home coffee roasters. Smoke comes from overheating that gives your roasted beans a slightly burnt smell or taste and thus your coffee. When you roast your coffee beans, remember that once the beans are roasted they will only remain truly fresh only within the next 10 days. To accommodate those who prefer dark roasts, a second fill line is added on the roast chamber. This unit also boasts a glass roast chamber that allows easy viewing and monitoring of your roast in progress, thus giving you added control in the roasting process. When buying a variety of beans, it is okay to freeze then for a short period of several months. The Nesco Coffee roaster is easy to use, but be sure to read all the directions first before using it.

One reviewer said: "The Nesco coffee roaster is very easy to use and once you determine what coffee to roast and what level to roast it to you will have fresh coffee that will be hard to beat." If you only drink espresso coffee on the week-ends, try roasting on Thursday or Friday and roast just enough for the week-end. You will happily surprised how much smoother and how much fresher your coffee will taste. Try 20 minutes for about 100 grams of coffee beans to start with and then adjust to your taste. If some chaff escapes to the counter, just brush it or vacuum it away. Features include a patented catalytic technology to reduce smoke and odor, a roasting journal, an instruction guide.

This Nesco coffee roaster does come many common sense requirements that is recommended reading. The easy-to-use 800-watt coffee-bean roaster ensures the freshest results and runs on 120 volts. It measures 14.8 inches by 10.5 inches by 14 inches, weighs 9 pounds and comes with a UL listing and 1 year limited warranty.

The Grindmaster Shuttle and Warmer Combo

The Grindmaster CS-LL Shuttle is designed for the commercial shuttle coffee brewers PB 330 and PB 430 as well as the P and RAPS models. The shuttle SKU CS-LL is a replacement for SKU CS-1. The CS-LL is a 1.5 gallon, 5.7 liter, shuttle. It has easy to clean round features and seamless exterior. Because this shuttle has an insulated air-gap that protects coffee from direct contact with heat, it does not burn the coffee. Because this brewer may need to place at a remote site these brewers have a carrying handle that lifts up on the top of the shuttle.  

The Grindmaster CW-1 warmer for the 1.5 gallon shuttle is easy to with its round corners and seamless exterior. This warmer comes with a cord for standard 120 volts and uses 100 watts at 1 amp.  It is the exact same size in body as the shuttle, which is 7.5 inches high by 9 inches wide by 9 inches deep. It weighs just 5 pounds and has an UL and CSA listing. The light weight of the CW-1 makes it easy to carry to a remote site where it can be plugged into a regular light socket to maintain an even heat for the shuttle. The warmer also adds 7.5 inches to the height below the spigot the shuttle giving ample room for filling carafes and cups of coffee.  

The Grindmaster CS-LL Shuttle is the shuttle for the simple to operate control panel styled shuttle coffee brewers. These are P200E which has as single shuttle, the P300E which has more voltage capabilities than the P200, and the P400E which is a dual shuttle brewer and also can be made for different voltage requirements. The PB Shuttle single brewer model 330 and the dual model 430 also use the CS-LL shuttle brewer. The PB series are Precision Brew digital brewers that will also accept the 3.0 liter airpot. These digital brewers come as a single brewer and a dual brewer and both are available for different voltage requirements.

The Cecilware CS113

In a class by itself, the Cecilware portable water boiler /coffee holding urn is unique in its ability or boil water where water lines are not available. This boiler/urn is constructed of high quality stainless steel and is 11 inches in diameter by 21.5 inches high and holds 3 gallons of coffee.

This boiler / urn from Grindmaster-Cecilware comes from there MPO series that provides a solution when no water line is available. This boiler / urn has the versatility of a portable urn. It can be used at a variety of places where there is not a direct water line available. Outside a community hall, lawn parties and wedding receptions where activities are held outside come to mind. When they are used as a pair they can offer coffee and hot water for tea, chocolate or hot cider anywhere close to a standard electric circuit. These urns are also great when catering an event where a water source is close by, but not directly available. 

This single portable hot water boiler uses electric heat in the bottom and has bottom mounted controls. These controls can be used to boil the water, brew the coffee at the right temperature and keep it at the right temperature or, it keep the water at the right temperature for hot chocolate, tea or cider. Talking about brewing coffee, this coffee urn extracts the rich flavor from each coffee grind and brings out its full taste and aroma.    

This urn comes with a number of options that include:

• Hot Water Ready indicator instead of a Temperature Gauge
• Legs drilled and tapped for a tie down.
• Air agitation Stainless Steel Tubing
• Hex Configuration on all Faucet Bonnets: Removable by Tool Only
• Tamperproof Screws on Control Box
• Thermostat Guard Box, Fitted with Tamperproof Screws
• Spray Arm Not Removable without Tools
• Fixed By-pass valve with Set Screw Adjustment
• Acrylic Gauge Glass
• Low Temperature Lockout – No Brew
• Locking Lids (locks not supplied)
• Optional Hinged Lids   

All the options that are available on this model will require serious thought on how and where you will use this urn. One issue may include security issues that will make it necessary to have a control box, thermostat and lid secured?  Another issue may be moving this urn from place and require an acrylic gauge glass for safety or legs tapped for a tie down so that it will not move from a utility cart. Or will hinged lids that are great if you don’t have a place to put them when you want to refill the coffee boiler/urn be of value?

Commercial Coffee Brewers with Warmers

Commercial coffee makers for your office do not have to cost a lot of money. The pourover coffee brewers are very similar to the best quality home brewer, but the big difference is how long it will last with office use. The Grindmaster commercial model BL-2P has an extra warmer to keep coffee warm and ready to serve. A second pot for decaf can be made and left on the burner under the brewer to remain warm or the decaf can be on top and the regular under the brewer. Colored handles will tell which coffee is in each pot so the drinker will get the drink they want. If the coffee drinkers want tea water or a specific type or specific flavor of coffee, the colored handles relay that message as well.

Each warmer of the brewer, whether you have a 2 or a 3 warmer unit, has an individual lighted warmer switch to indicate when it is “on.” Having three warmers is great for a larger office where coffee is consumed at a faster rate. Three warmers also offer a larger variety of possible types or flavors of hot drinks. Tea, coffee and decaf coffee could be one choice or regular coffee, decaf coffee and a flavored coffee could be another choice that would keep all three of them warm.   

Commercial pourover brewers have an attractive appearance that is styled to complement any décor as well as having a space-saving design. The Grindmaster 2 warmer brewer is 17-3/4" high by 8-1/2" wide by 16-1/2" deep. On this brewer the decanter sits in back on the top of the brewer while the half-gallon reservoir opening is in front for easy filling. Talking about filling the reservoir, be sure to fill the reservoir with three (3) decanters full of water before plugging it for the first time. If it seems to leak the first time; it is okay and will not do it again.

Commercial pourover brewers are constructed of stainless steel. This makes cleaning the outside surface quick and easy. A damp cloth will clean all the surfaces and heating plates of the brewer. The plastic filter basket can be washed in the top shelf of a dishwasher; however, rinsing it well in a sink should be sufficient. If it needs further cleaning, use soapy water to clean it and then rinse it well with cold water.   

There are other office brewers like the Bunn with preheated water, but they do come with additional warmers. And there are digital programmable brewers like this one, but they do cost around twice as much. For the money, the Grindmaster single brewer with two or three warmer plates does offer a better commercial product for a mid-sized office that wants more than one kind of coffee or more than just coffee.   

The Nesco Cordless 8 Cup Water Kettle

If you want to heat water faster and more efficiently than a tea kettle on the stove top or an eight cup glass container in the microwave, then this is the water kettle for you.   Electric kettles, like this one, use up to 40 percent less energy than stove top kettles and less energy than a microwave; making them truly energy efficient. The 1500 watt Nesco Cordless heats 8 cups of water for dry soup mixes, pasta, blanching vegetables and hot cereal, such as oatmeal. It’s also great for hot beverages such as tea, hot chocolate, instant coffee as well as Jell-O and other instants such as instant potatoes and instant cooked rice. Just a hint here: If you are using less than 8 cups for original purpose, pour some of the hot water in say the Jell-O bowl before you put in the Jell-O in and let it sit a minute. Pour out the water, put the Jell-O in bowl and add the required amount of water. Your Jell-O will dissolve better. This is true for other foods as well as the warm container will hold the hot water needed longer.

The concealed heating element is covered in a 360º rotational stainless steel base that also has a cord storage built in. This water kettle has dual water level indicators that show the visible water level all the way to the maximum fill indicator; these are illuminated from the kettle interior while the kettle is in operation. This water kettle also has an auto shut off for total safety and a water filter that is removable and washable for convenience. Additional features include a stay cool handle and the drip free pouring spout that is truly drip-free. The water kettle is easy to clean and uses an easy one touch on / off switch that automatically turns off when the water boils.

This Nesco kettle has a 4+ consumer rating out of possible 5 by consumers all over this nation. There remarks agree that this water kettle is truly and energy efficient water kettle and with the low cost has everything you could want in an 8 cup water kettle.

This water kettle is 8.6 inches across including handle by 7.3 inches and 10.8 inches high. The weight of this kettle is just over 3 pounds and can be only sold in the United States and its warranty is good only when used in the United States.

The Nesco Coffee Mill Grinder

An excellent cup of coffee starts with the Nesco® Professional burr grinder that consistently delivers an even grind with lower heat generation that ensures maximum flavor retention of your coffee. You can select from 17 grind settings that grind from Espresso to French press. The hopper of this grinder comes with a safety lid. The hopper holds 8.8 and both the hopper and the bin are see-through. The burr grinding plates use a process that grinds beans into a uniform size of your choose using less friction. This process protects delicious oils for maximum flavor and aroma, which is the best result for your fresh cup of coffee. To get your freshest cup each time, grind only what you need. You can even grind flax and similar seeds for fresh ground in this burr mill!

When you select one of the settings and set the adjustable timer to grind 2 to 12 cups of coffee, you can create the perfect grind from espresso to drip coffee to French press. There is a fully automatic selector for up to the 12 cups with an auto shut off. In addition, a slip resistant, vibration free base keeps the grinder from sliding on your countertop.

When you first get your burr grinder and have removed all the packaging, put the lid on the grounds bin and slide into the coffee grinder and push it back until it clicks into place. Next, remove hopper lid from bean hopper. Now you can put the amount of coffee beans in the bean hopper and close the hopper lid. The amount you put in varies with the type of coffee and your own taste. To start with you can use a tablespoon of ground coffee for a six ounce cup of coffee. Later, you can a little more coffee for a stronger cup of coffee or a little less for a weaker cup of coffee.

Now you are ready to set the grinding size wheel to desired setting. The wheel is marked as 1 for very fine coffee to 9 for a course grind. Settings midway between each number allows you to fine tune the grind to exactly how you like it. Settings from 1 to3 are best for espressos, while settings from 4 to 6 are best for filtered coffeemakers and setting from 7-9 are best for percolators, urns and French Press.

Set the timer to the number of cups to be ground from 0 to 12. This timer length is only a guide as fine grinding takes longer than course grinding. But, do not run the grinder for more than two minutes. This causes the burrs to get too hot. Now you are ready to plug the cord into 120 volt electrical outlet. If it does not fit, rotate plug 180°, as this plug has the new safety tines where one is slightly larger on one side. If it still does not fit, you need to contact a certified electrician to update your outlet. Press the on/off switch and the grinding process of beans falling between the grinding wheels and ground coffee ejecting into grounds bin. When coffee grinder stops, press the On/Off switch again and remove plug from electrical outlet for safety.

The Nesco Coffee Roaster and Coffee Beans

Nesco® makes two coffee making products. One is the Professional Coffee Bean Roaster and the other is there new Coffee Bean Burr Grinder. Both are great additions for any coffee maker or espresso machine. However, this article will only cover the coffee bean roaster.

One of the advantages of the Nesco professional coffee bean roaster is you can roast the beans of your choice. Once you get use to using this roaster you will enjoy roasting them. You will find that the aroma of fresh roasted coffee beans is very enticing with each roast of beans. You will begin to find and learn about different green coffee beans that are available for you to roast and different places where you can get your green coffee beans.  It’s easy to perfectly roast beans in as little as 20 minutes for light roast. It takes from 23 to 26 minutes for medium roast and 27 to 30 minutes for dark roast with the Nesco coffee roaster. Remember to let the roaster cool after roasting.

The Nesco roaster holds up to a third of a pound of raw green coffee beans. This is enough for 36 cups of coffee. So think about how many cups you will be using because coffee beans reach their peak flavor a few hours to a day after roasting. During this time, allow them to rest before putting them into an air tight container; one that keeps out sunlight and air. Sunlight and air cause the beans to deteriorate faster. Do not fill the container clear full as gases may still escape from the beans creating the need for more room in your container. Be sure to keep beans in a dry place as well. You can freeze beans in an emergency if you roasted too many beans for up to a week.

Ground coffee beans will lose their fresh and flavor rapidly. After one week, the taste is lost, and in two weeks the aroma is completely gone. Therefore, it is best to grind coffee just before you are going to use it. Fresh un-ground coffee beans should be allowed to ‘rest’ for a few hours before grinding. This can be done by placing the coffee beans in the grinder and let them site a while before you are ready to grind them.

Disappearing Espresso Machines

Two major brands of espresso machines are no longer available as they have been discontinued by the manufacturer. The Bosch Benvenuto B20 and Bosch B30  Digital have been discontinued from the Bosch product line. These super-automatic espresso machines from Switzerland gave you the convenience of grinding, dosing, tamping and brewing all with the touch of a button making them very easy to operate, and at a lower price without being a lower quality product. One of its greatest features was a top-loading bypass doser that allows you to easily add pre-ground coffee and brew decaffeinated or flavored espresso. This ability allowed you to serve all your guests the specific kind of drink they wanted. The B30 offered the same simple touch screen controls plus customizable language, water hardness, timer, 12 possible drink options and temperature options. Its greatest points were its programmable settings for water quality, time and temperature, its stainless steel boiler and conical grinder. The one thing that was dislike about these machines is that it did not take on a professional-grade manual espresso makers’ freedom. That is, this espresso maker made espresso its way without any regard for any changes the operator would want to make with a manual machine. 

Another super espresso machine line that has been discontinued is the Solis brand that is also Swiss-based. There super automatic espresso machines included a great push-button espresso machine with an integrated burr grinder, dosing bypass, and programming. The Palazzo espresso machine was also a modern architecturally designed machine. Its appearance made a statement as to its quality in craftsmanship inside and out. Inside the Palazzo had a professional-grade conical burr grinder, a two quart removable water tank and a pre-infusion brew system, a high steam at 15 bar pressure, a steam knob that allowed you to froth, steam, or get hot water with a twist of a knob. A 5 button control panel set everything to do automatically. Cleaning was done with an alert from the machine and you adding cleaning liquid. A warming tray, a must, kept your cups warm before use. The Solis Master 5000 series offered delivered steaming hot espresso in 15 seconds. The digital, which came last, added improved programming options such as a drink strength setting, a professional-grade burr grinder, added language options, a timer and an automatic cleaning notification.

Two major brands of espresso machines are no longer available as they have been discontinued by the manufacturer. The Bosch Benvenuto B20 and Bosch B30  Digital have been discontinued from the Bosch product line. These super-automatic espresso machines from Switzerland gave you the convenience of grinding, dosing, tamping and brewing all with the touch of a button making them very easy to operate, and at a lower price without being a lower quality product. One of its greatest features was a top-loading bypass doser that allows you to easily add pre-ground coffee and brew decaffeinated or flavored espresso. This ability allowed you to serve all your guests the specific kind of drink they wanted. The B30 offered the same simple touch screen controls plus customizable language, water hardness, timer, 12 possible drink options and temperature options. Its greatest points were its programmable settings for water quality, time and temperature, its stainless steel boiler and conical grinder. The one thing that was dislike about these machines is that it did not take on a professional-grade manual espresso makers’ freedom. That is, this espresso maker made espresso its way without any regard for any changes the operator would want to make with a manual machine. 

Another super espresso machine line that has been discontinued is the Solis brand that is also Swiss-based. There super automatic espresso machines included a great push-button espresso machine with an integrated burr grinder, dosing bypass, and programming. The Palazzo espresso machine was also a modern architecturally designed machine. Its appearance made a statement as to its quality in craftsmanship inside and out. Inside the Palazzo had a professional-grade conical burr grinder, a two quart removable water tank and a pre-infusion brew system, a high steam at 15 bar pressure, a steam knob that allowed you to froth, steam, or get hot water with a twist of a knob. A 5 button control panel set everything to do automatically. Cleaning was done with an alert from the machine and you adding cleaning liquid. A warming tray, a must, kept your cups warm before use. The Solis Master 5000 series offered delivered steaming hot espresso in 15 seconds. The digital, which came last, added improved programming options such as a drink strength setting, a professional-grade burr grinder, added language options, a timer and an automatic cleaning notification.

Espresso Coffee Terminology and History

The original term for the modern word espresso, coffee extracted under pressure, was cream coffee from the Italian caffe crema or the variant, crema caffe. Due to the crema, which is now the light-colored, orangish head of foam on a cup of espresso, these terms were seen on the first modern Achille Gaggia steamless coffee machine in 1938. These terms were used commercially in his coffee bar, but are no longer used.

Today, espresso is known as a concentrated coffee beverage brewed by forcing hot water under a high countable pressure, known as a Bar pressure, through finely ground coffee. Today, we also drink this concentrated coffee beverage as coffee breve, which comes from the Italian word for short. Thus, short cream becomes half and half, cream short of full cream is known as whole milk. This quick different coffee brewing method often has a thicker consistency, a higher concentration of suspended solids and crema (foam). As a result of the pressurized brewing process, all of the flavors, a chemical sense of taste and smell, in a typical cup of coffee is very concentrated. For this reason, espresso has become the base for other drinks.

These drinks include lattes, which comes from the Italian word for coffee, caffè. In Italy, the word or milk is latte. When hot milk or warm half-and-half is added it becomes caffè latte or caffellatte in Italian. These drinks are often called lattes in America as well. A cappuccino is a latte with steamed milk froth on the top of the drink. The light color of the robes of Capuchin friars inspired a derivation of the word Capuchin as cappuccino. The word macchiato means marked or stained. Thus a macchiato is an espresso that is marked or stained with milk on the top. This is usually an elegant drink with a design made with milk on the top. Baristas love to show off their artistic ability with fancy milk designs. Mocha is an American invention that was inspired by an old Italian drink in Turin, Italy. This drink is made in layers of drinking chocolate, whole milk or half-and- half milk and espresso. This drink is served in small round glasses, like Italians do, to show off the three layers. The word Americano comes from American GIs who toned down the strength of their drinks in Italy to match the strength of their drip coffee they drank at home. The Americano was made by adding hot water to there cup after the espresso was poured. Today, an Americano is made by adding water before or after the espresso is put in the cup.           

Two Species of Coffee Trees

Two species of coffee trees may be considered as two categories. When calling them two categories, it makes it easier to understand the difference between gourmet and ordinary coffee. Putting it in simple terms, premium quality mixes includes 100 % Arabica beans known as Coffea arabica, which is one of a large genus known as Coffea that contains more than 90 species of beans that are actually seeds. Lesser quality coffees and less expensive blends may consist partly of or 100 % Robusta beans which are known as Coffea canephora beans. These beans were not recognized as part of the same genus Caffea until the 19^th century. Arabica beans give off a superior coffee taste and are considered a better coffee than other major commercially grown coffees. The Robusta, Caffea canephora, carries a more bitter taste and has less body. This is why the brews that contain real Arabica beans should be labeled as high-quality

So, why do coffee companies use Robusta beans? There are many reasons why these beans are used. First, Robusta coffee trees yield crops in a matter of 2 yrs after being planted while Arabica trees take 4 or 5 years before they yield beans. A second reason is the Robusta beans are less susceptible to disease than Arabica beans that are cultivated only in lower altitudes and in warmer climates. Economical concerns cause farmers to keep increasing the number of Robusta trees and adding the faster growing beans to keep up with demand. The Robusta plant provides more beans and it can tolerate the cold and grows just fine in different altitudes. Robusta beans are also more affordable and may be marketed to less discriminating buyers for super markets. Robusta bean buyers can do this because these can be brewed and dried to make instant coffee. They are also often utilized in blends with Arabica coffee beans. One great virtue of the Arabica bean is that it is less costly to roast. Therefore, some companies add some Arabica coffee beans so they can claim their brews consist of Arabica beans. One last difference is that Robusta beans possess an increased caffeine quantity than the Arabica beans, which fuels the cravings many people already have for their cup of coffee. Whether they are Arabica or Robusta, both coffees often have spices added to create tastes that soon become a “best-liked taste” for a certain area. 

No matter what type of coffee, blend of coffee or spices added coffee that is offered around the world, most coffee connoisseurs proclaim it is not only the coffee beans, but the coffee maker that helps create there best tasting cup of coffee.                                     

The Solis Silver Super Automatic Palazzo Espresso Machine

The Palazzo automatically grinds your coffee beans and extracts your espresso or coffee. The new mess-free Palazzo is a compact Super Automatic espresso and coffee machine that doesn’t take much counter space with its 11 inches wide by 17.8 inches deep size and its 14.4 inch height that leaves plenty of room under the cabinets and thus a great size for an office or home. In addition, the Palazzo is on a turntable so that when it’s rotated the built-in two quart reservoir can be easily filled or with the integrated handle can be quickly removed. Another great feature is the water level indicator to let you know its time to empty it before an overflow mess. 

This Swiss made machine, imported by Baratza LLC, makes an espresso or coffee with the press of a button in 30 seconds. This kind of speed is its number one feature. Want a latte or cappuccino? It’s yours with the turn of a knob for steam or if its hot water you need it comes from the steam wand too. You will find that this machine is simple to use with its two rows of LED lights buttons and knobs, assured reliability and the ability to produce perfectly all the espresso-based beverages you want.

Programmable brewing options, adjustable coffee strength and the ability to choose between the use of pre-ground coffee beans or coffee beans are its advanced features. The ability to choose is great when you want to have two different coffee choices. You can have decaffeinated coffee or a flavored espresso coffee in the 8 ounce hopper, which protects the beans from moisture and air, while you can brew a regular coffee or espresso. The ability to switch from brewing to steaming with the flick of a switch, the ability to fine tune the grind for your coffee or espresso, the special pre-brew coffee conditioning systems and the automated cleaning system are from the Master 5000 state of art features.

Steam on demand well named rapid steam as the Palazzo provides brewing and frothing within a few seconds time. The Palazzo can also change from steaming first to brewing espresso without having a burnt or bitter taste from an over-heated brewing temperature.

Instead of the long internal throw, the Palazzo throw is a very short 2.5 inches from the group to your cup, instead of the 4 inch throw found in some other machines. This keeps the espresso from cooling on its way to the cup.

The auto cleaning function allows the machine to be easily set to flush itself out of stale water every time it is turned on or when it comes back from standby mode. With the touch of a button, you can also start its fully automated cleaning cycle that leaves the machine clean and scale free. Time to clean the waste coffee container comes with an LED notice when its time to empty, which is after about every 14 portions. In the end you can pre-infuse the grounds, make a great shot and dispose the spent coffee grounds all in one step. Simplicity and perfection wrapped in a stainless steel package.

The Pasquini Livia 90 Automatic Espresso Machine

The sturdy Livia 90 automatic espresso machine speaks of elegance and top-most quality of any espresso machine. Its elegance is seen not only its presentation, but also in its features. These features include a commercial quality espresso machine that is designed for the home that uses programmable volume settings. Simple buttons at your fingertips will brew the amount you desire and then stop automatically. The powerful commercial pump and steamer also make the Livia 90 automatic capable of brewing and steaming milk at the same time! These are both great features when you want two or more cups of coffee or espresso; it also great when you want your beverage as fast as possible or need to do something else. This feature also makes it very popular the world over for use in an office, restaurant or café setting. When using it in your home you can also program your espresso your exact taste. Need hot water while using your Pasquini Livia 90? The Livia will offer you instant hot water from its hot water dispenser; this is another great for an office or café setting where bakery items may be served and customers want a cup of tea.

As noted above, the Livia 90 automatic espresso machine with its commercial quality allows just a push of a button on the Livia 90 to choose either a single or a double shot of espresso. You can also switch to manual override and make any amount of coffee as you want. Heavy-duty rocker switches and two attractive indicator lights are conveniently located on the front of the machine. One flip of a switch gives you the green light and the power is on. The orange light lets you know the boiler is heating. In addition to these simple controls, a pressure gauge, just below the control panel, signals when it is up to pressure for use.

 This refined espresso machine employs sturdy commercial components such as 3-way solenoid valve, adjustable pressure stat, auto fill boiler and stainless steel steam arm. It has the same separate hot water dispenser as the Pasquini renowned professional line. Automatic water refill and pressure, not temperature, permits the unlimited production of delicious hot Italian espresso every time. A powerful commercial pump and steamer make the Livia 90 Automatic capable of brewing and steaming at the same time! The Livia 90 Automatic can also be combined with other Pasquini products to form the perfect espresso bar for the home or office! Please note that the current models of the Livia 90 Automatic have a shorter hot water wand than depicted in the picture above.

The specifications include a stainless steel boiler and heat exchanger with a volume of 1.5 liters made of copper. The wattage of this espresso machine is 1200. The portafilter diameter is 58 mm, which is commercial size. The pump pressure is 15 Bar and the water reservoir holds 3.5 liters. All controls are rocker or pus pad that make the unit programmable. The necessary passive cup warmer rests on the top of the machine that weighs 50 pounds. The dimensions of the automatic Livia 90 espresso machine are 13" high x11" wide x 15"deep.

The Saeco AromaSS Espresso Machine

The stainless steel Saeco Aroma is a traditional pump-driven espresso machine built for simplicity and durability. Its pressurized style portafilter makes the Aroma a great starter machine that reduces the amount of control the user needs to have over the grind setting and tamp pressure. In addition, its 5 ounce boiler ensures lasting steam power that is dispensed through Saeco’s signature Pannarello wand to take the guesswork out of frothing and steaming. The neatly wrapped Aroma in a Classic stainless steel housing is both stylish and resilient, has a one warranty, but will provide café quality espresso for years.
 
There are two types of portafilters; one is the pressurized style and the other is the commercial style. The Aroma uses the pressurized style, which is easier to use than the commercial as it is more forgiving. The portafilter is made up of three parts, the handle, the filter holder, and the filter basket. Under the filter basket is a small spring-loaded valve that will not open until the pressure in the portafilter has built up. A few seconds after the pump is turned on, the 15 Bar pressure in the portafilter is great enough to push open the valve and release the coffee. For an even better shot you can upgrade the portafilter to a non-pressurized version. When you use the commercial style, it requires the correct texture of the coffee grounds and the right pressure used to pack them. That is, the right grind and tampered grounds makes a huge difference in the quality of espresso produced.

A food safe five (5) ounce stainless steel boiler and heating element resists corrosion and ensures a longer life span of the machine. It is recommended that you do a simple process called decalcifying every two to three months to lengthen the life span of this and other internal components. This is process is subject to the condition of your water supply and how often you use your Saeco Aroma espresso machine. If you have calcium in your water and use your machine daily, it is suggested that you run the decalcifying process more often. Clean the brew head of your espresso machine weekly and don’t forget to clean the plastic drip tray that lifts out with soap and water. 

The Aroma Stainless Steel contains three rocker arm switches and one steam knob. The top left switch is the main power switch that activates the boiler. It has a built-in indicator light that will come on when the machine is on. The bottom left switch operates the pump and is called the brew switch. When this is turned on, the pump is activated for either brewing or dispensing hot water depending on which mode you are in. It contains a built-in ready light that will turn on when you hit the switch and will turn off when it is up to operating temperature. The third button is used for the steaming process. When pressed, it tells the Aroma’s boiler to heat to steaming temperature. To release the steam, you will simply open the steam knob located on the right side of the machine.

Preheating your cups is a very important as they will hold the temperature of your espresso for a longer time. The Aroma Stainless Steel has a stainless steel cup warmer that will hold up to five espresso cups. It is passively heated, which means it is heated from the residual heat of the boiler, which is right below were you set the cups.

If you want hot water for any reason, be it for hot chocolate, tea or Americanos, instant soup, instant oatmeal or even Jell-O, it is very easy to do. Just turn on the pump (brew) switch and open the steam knob. Hot water will start to stream out.

The Rancilio Silvia Rocky Base

The stainless steel Rancilio Silvia Rocky base is an attractive excellent accessory for your Rancilio Silvia espresso machine or any other espresso machine. This two drawer base will store your portafilter brew-head cleaning brush or brushes, cleaning tablets, pod adapter parts and other tools on one side. On the other side, you can place the durable hardwood bar that comes with the base for knocking spent coffee pucks clean from your portafilter filter basket without having to reach somewhere else on your counter for a knock box. The knock box can be on either side, which it is a great asset for those who are left-handed. There are many times when an accessory appliance is made for only right-handed people.   

This lovely stainless steel base is a firm foundation that keeps everything neat, together and tidy and looks great in any decor. It is also the perfect platform to show off your espresso machine and grinder together. Both of them will sit neatly on top of the base as complete working package that does not need to be moved. You will find that the Rancilio Rocky doser and doserless grinders sit very neatly next to your Rancilio espresso machine.

Those who wrote in reviews on this Rancilio Rocky base noted the following things they liked best. Number one answer was it was a commercial grade product and that it was easy to clean and easy to use. They also noted that the height of the two drawer base left a good height for under the cabinet and another review noted that they didn’t use it as a knock box, but still found it highly useful.

The stainless steel Rancilio Silvia Rocky base is actually designed as a base for your Rancilio Silvia espresso machine and a Rancilio Rocky grinder. This Rancilio base is the perfect complement for your espresso bar. Its compact size of 2 1/8 inches high by 19 inches wide and 13.5 inches deep and weight of nine pounds makes it easy to move to any place you want it to be; especially if you don’t place it under your espresso machine or grinder. Like all the Rancilio Silvia and Rancilio Epoca and Rancilio Rocky grinders, this base is imported from Italy.

The Gpod and Opod from Grindmaster

The Gpod and Opod are single serve brewing systems that can be used in the home or for commercial purposes. These brewers are great for people who want there coffee almost instantly with as little mess as possible. They are also great for use in offices where each person can have there own taste of coffee or tea whenever they want. Just put in the coffee pod or tea pod and set the strength settings as to how you want your mug of coffee or tea. However, before you make that first amount of coffee in your Gpod or Opod there are two major things you must do. First, read all the brewer safeguards in your manual. Second, run an AutoPrime and Flush procedure according to the manual directions. This procedure only needs to be done again if the brewer has not been used for a long period of time. If you use this at your vacation home where you visit once or twice a year, you need to run the AutoPrime and Flush again.

The Gpod brewer is a light duty brewer, yet is a commercial grade brewer that must be manually filled with water. A handle for the reservoir is on top and can be easily lifted up and carried to a water source. The reservoir for the Gpod and Opod holds 80 ounces of water, while hot water tank holds 37 ounces, enough for four 8 ounce servings as 1 ounce additional is absorb by a pod. An 8 ounce serving size is set at the factory, but you can adjust it to less than that up to a 32 ounce serving as a tall large container of that size can be placed under the spout. Close the pod lid and set the strength knob before you have a container under the spout; then, you can push the purple pulsing button to brew. The minimum heating temperature is 185°F while the maximum temperature is 200°F. The Gpod runs on 120 volts and 1300 watts at 10.8 amps.

The Opod is a single serve brewing system that can also be used in the home or for commercial purposes. You will find these in offices, motel and hotel rooms and lobbies and cafeterias. This unit can be filled manually to the holes in the reservoir or connected to a .25” water line with 10 to 145 psi. In manual mode a bright yellow LED alerts the user the water is low, and a light green LED alerts the user the water is at brewing temperature. Like the Gpod the reservoir hold 80 ounces of water and 37 ounces in the hot water tank. The Opod runs on 120 volts and 1300 watts at 10.8 amps as Opod and 230 volts and 1200 watts at 5.2 amps as OpodE.

Spicy Health Tips

After the holidays, health tips are coming in on the web to help people with dangerous Body Mass Indexes and Blood Sugar problems. These are serious problems for people who have high counts in these categories. Eating Well and Real Age articles have sent out articles on these two topics, which I would like to impart parts of here because they offer very good advice.

Real Age states: “Keep your heart strong and help your body get lean by jazzing up your morning beverage with a swirl of cinnamon.” For people who are more than just a little over weight and need to watch there blood sugar levels as well, this especially true.  This is not the only thing to do to keep your body weight at a good level and your heart strong. I will cover more about this later.  

In the morning or evening when you brew a cup of coffee, cocoa or herbal tea add some cinnamon to your drink. You may find that this spice sweetens your morning drink more than you thought; and it gives an added taste to your coffee, cocoa or herbal tea. I have been adding this spice to my oatmeal in the morning. I am not overweight, but cinnamon is also a great spice to keep your cholesterol count down as well. So, if you have a high cholesterol count, you get twice the benefit from one spice.  Cloves and allspice do the same as cinnamon, but not to the same degree. They do add different flavors to your beverages. Be adventurous and try out some of these spices. 

Eating Well states that “cinnamon along with cloves and allspice are anti-oxidants that may inhibit the formation of bad-for-your-body high-blood-sugar compounds.” They go on to say that “other spices seemed to have a similar, though weaker, effect: sage, marjoram, tarragon, and rosemary.”

Diets that contain leaner meat and more vegetables spiced with the spices mentioned above are great New Year resolutions to keep. A spiced diet along with exercise is a great present to your self. Give it a try and you will be surprised and proud of your results. 

It is interesting to note that the three stronger spices were the first spices used when man began brewing coffee and later brewing it in coffee houses. The drinkers of coffee were men, mainly merchants. Some of them were men who traveled to get the spices and sell them where coffee was first made and sold.

Commercial Coffee Grinders

There are three different types of commercial coffee grinders. Food service coffee grinders, retail coffee grinders and espresso grinders. This article will discuss only the food service and retail coffee grinders.

Food service coffee grinders have an adjustable range of profile settings to grind coffee for there particular need. They also have long lasting grinding burrs that deliver a precise grind as well as an exacting particle distribution. Because these grinders are made for constant use, they are considered economical as well as dependable. Grindmaster makes three food service models that can be seen in restaurants, donut and pastry shops that serve coffee with there food.

These food service grinders can also be found in schools, hospitals, large nursing homes and rest homes, hotels and motels as well as service stations that sell food and cups of coffee. Other places food grinders could be found include eating places in large office building, medical buildings and large construction sites. Any places where large numbers of people gather and there is an ample water supply.

These grinders come in single portion that holds 6 pounds of coffee in its hopper, a two portion hopper unit that holds 5.5 pounds on each side while a three hopper that holds 5.5 pounds on each side. Another version has dual portions and two removable hoppers or a three portion grinder with two removable hoppers. These are great features as you can have regular coffee beans in one hopper and decaf coffee beans in another hopper. Extra busy, use two hoppers for regular and second for decaf or you can offer two types of regular coffee and regular and a bold coffee in each and a decaf in the third.

Retail coffee grinders you see every time you go to a grocery store or specialty store. These grinding machines are easy to operate with an on/off switch and offer multiple profile grind selections. They are designed to hold a bag while the ground coffee beans are directed down a chute into the bag. All come with at least five grind settings between percolator and espresso. These grinders have a heavy duty ½ horsepower motor with an immediate circuit breaker for safety just like the food service grinders. They also come in black and stainless steel like the food service grinders. However, one retail coffee grinder offers a choice of red, black or stainless steel.

Thank you, Proctor Silex® Products, Inc.

Proctor Silex claims “For delicious, freshly brewed coffee, turn to the brand that is made for durability. Proctor Silex® Coffeemakers are practical and hard-working appliances that brew hot, flavorful beverages with convenience and ease.” They also claim that: “Proctor Silex® coffeemakers are designed to be simple and affordable, with reliable results that you can depend on. These long-lasting appliances look great on the countertop, and they are easy to use and simple to clean. With Proctor Silex® Coffeemakers, you can enjoy freshly made beverages any time of day.”

All this must be true as Proctor Silex makes seven 12 cup coffeemakers and one 10 cup coffeemaker that are designed to be simple and affordable and are reliable enough that you can depend on them to be easy to use and simple to clean. These coffee makers don’t have any extras. For consumers who just want a simple inexpensive coffeemaker, these may be the ones for you. You are not alone as shown by the volume of coffee makers they continue to produce. However, it seems that more people want coffeemakers that meet there fast-paced lifestyle. Preset times to brew the coffee, permanent gold mesh filters and brew interrupt. Let’s look at them later.

Proctor Silex® also offers five easy-to-use kettles that are attractive as well. These popular kettles utilize a rapid boil system that heats up water quickly so that you can enjoy tea, instant coffee, hot chocolate, and other hot beverages in minutes... hot instant oatmeal, wheat bran and instant soups. These kettles are made for efficiency, with dual water windows for easy filling and an immersed heating element for easy cleanup. They say they are built to last, are attractive and affordable kettles and durable enough for everyday use. These inexpensive kettles have a lighted on/off switch, automatic shutoff and boil-dry protection that are great performance features you'll appreciate.

Proctor Silex offers one stainless steel blade coffee grinder that is easy to clean and has a compact Euro-style design. It grinds with a push of a button and has a clear lid to see how fine the coffee has been ground. The longer you grind the finer the coffee grounds.

Most of these Proctor Silex appliances are priced for under $30.00. Proctor Silex is a thirty year old company and a trusted name that includes pause ‘n serve, programmable coffee makers that have gold mesh filters while keeping them simple and inexpensive. Thank you, Proctor Silex for your thirty years as Proctor Silex and for your continued contribution to the coffee making industry under NAACO.

National Presto Industries, Inc. Products

The Presto corporation is run by a board of directors who review there position annually. This company produces a wide variety of kitchen appliances. I have chosen to cover there coffee makers and tea kettles for this article.

The coffee makers include the Presto 6 cup stainless steel coffee maker, the Presto 12 cup stainless steel coffee maker. These two coffee makers are better known as percolators. They are great for those who prefer a stronger cup of coffee. Included with these coffee makers is there Presto MyPod replacement coffee filters that are made for there 12 cup stainless steel coffee maker percolator.

The Presto 6 cup brews from 2 to 6 cups of coffee fast and keeps it hot automatically. A signal light tells you when the coffee is ready to serve. Its graceful design and brilliant stainless steel finish provides elegance that is sure to please anywhere and anytime.

The Presto 12 cup brews from 2 to 12 cups of coffee at the rate of a cup a minute and keeps it hot automatically. It is built like the Presto 6 cup only larger and has the same pleasing appearance as well.  

The coffee makers come with a short cord for safety along with a one year limited warranty. Service parts for this product can be ordered on-line or by phone. These include an electric cord, basket lid, basket, perk tube, cover assembly and instruction manual.  

Two other products I would like to mention here are there Presto electric tea kettles. The first is a cordless electric tea kettle and the other is there Presto “Heat ‘n Steep” electric tea kettle.

The Presto electric tea kettle boils up to a full quart of water super-fast, even faster than a microwave. Boil water for tea, instant coffee, hot chocolate, gelatin desserts, hot cereals, instant soups and more. Just wait for the built-in whistle that lets you know the water is boiling. If the water in the tea kettle is too low this electric kettle’s thermostat will automatically shut the kettle off before it boils dry. The flip-up stainless steel lid makes filling the kettle easy and it also directs steam away from the handle while pouring. The interior of this kettle has an anodized base that resists mineral buildup to help keep the inside clean for years to come.

The Heat ‘N Steep tea kettle is a stainless steel tea infuser that goes beyond boiling water; it also brews loose leaf tea and bag tea. Its built-in thermostat insures the right temperature and turns the tea kettle off when the water runs low. The timer ensures the right length of brewing time for the type of tea you want to brew. A color-coded guide is very clear to read right in the front shows instantly the recommended range of steeping temperatures for brewing different types of tea such as green, white, oolong cut, black and herbal teas as well as steeping time. The no-drip spout and sure-grip handle ensures easy handling, which is great when the kettle is full of hot water. The cord is short for safety concerns. A long cord is more likely to cause accidents.

The best way to make perfect tea is heat the water to the right temperature for the type of tea you want to make. Put the right amount of tea into the stainless steel infuser for the amount of tea you want to make and attach it to the bottom of the kettle lid and put it back on the kettle. Set the timer for the recommended length for the type of tea you are making. When the time is up, the tea is ready to pour.

Replaceable parts for the tea infuser/kettle are timer and battery, cover assembly, stainless steel infuser basket and instruction manual. A one year limited warranty comes with both of these tea kettles.

Commercial Espresso Grinders from Cecilware

Cecilware offers two varieties of Espresso Coffee grinders, the Venezia espresso grinders and the Venevia II espresso grinder. These grinders are made to handle constant use and have a micro "grind control" adjustment. This is an exclusive adjustment system that gives you infinite control over grind settings. No more preset "clicks" for grind settings. All these grinders have 2-1/2 inch grinding blades and a grinding speed of 1600 rpm.The frame for these grinders is made of cast aluminum to insure perfect grind head alignment. Each grinder has a doser and a stroke counter that shows the number of cups of espresso that has been served as well as a coffee pressing device. Just lift the porta filter under the device. All the espresso grinders come with an electrical line cord and an NEMA plug 5-5P. The Venezia group has three models and the Venezia II has one model.

 

The Venezia model VGT has a manual timer. For the savvy espresso operator, the time switch model offers the operator control over the grinding process. With a maximum grinding time of 1 minute, the operator can simply turn the mechanical timer in intervals of seconds to grind the amount of espresso beans desired. The espresso bean capacity is 2.7 pounds and the dose adjustment can be set from 5.5 grams to 9 grams. The capacity of the ground espresso container is .6 pounds (.3 kilograms). This model runs on 120 volts at 350 watts and pulls 2.9 amps with a ½ horse power motor.

 

The Venezia model VGT has an automatic timer and an espresso bean hopper capacity of 2.7 pounds (1.2 kilograms).  The automatic timer is great for high volume use; it automatically starts after every 12 doses. The grinder stops when the chute is full and when it restarts it fills the chute full again. The dose adjustment can be set from 5.5 grams to 9 grams as well.  

 

The Venezia model VHGA is a heavy duty espresso grinder with an automatic timer. The capacity of the espresso bean hopper is 4 pounds (1.8 kilograms). The dose adjustment is the same as the other two models. However, the ground espresso container capacity is .8 pounds (.4 kilograms). While the horsepower of the first two is ½, the horsepower of this model is 1 horsepower. This machine is designed for constant heavy use where you’re consistently serving espresso or cappuccino style beverages such as at a coffee bar or espresso bar that is busy all the time.

 

The Venezia II espresso grinder has a micro "grind control" adjustment that allows the operator to set the grind size to the exact size desired. This model has a stouter frame than the Venezia II grinders, but is also has of cast aluminum alloy frame to insure perfect grind head alignment. The grinder also has a coffee pressing device close to the porta filter holder. Just lift the porta filter under the device to compact the grind. This grinder has a 5 minute timer and runs on a 120 volt 350 watt ½ horsepower motor that pulls 3 amps.

 

Toastess International Introduces Delfino Brand

Toastess International Introduces Delfino Brand

The Toastess Coffee Company is one of the older coffee companies in America. Toastess Inc. was actually founded in 1945 by two brothers who became pioneers in the Canadian house wares industry. When it comes to coffee making products, Toastess was awarded a Canadian design award for its first electric kettle. This award was followed by these first with this product. 

1. First to make electric kettles with a concealed element;
2. First to use non-stick coating on the inside of kettles to reduce scale build-up;
3. First to design and build a whistling electric kettle;
4. First to offer a two-year guarantee on its products.

Toastess has many firsts in related electric house wares as well; all were first launched for Canadian consumers. In the early 2000s Toastess Inc. closed it doors and the brand was sold. In August 2000, Toastess International now takes great pride in the legacy of its predecessor. They have now set there eyes on new firsts.

The latest new firsts is a design style change of coffee making equipment under a new brand name. Toastess International has unveiled the Delfino brand of upscale, brushed stainless steel small kitchen appliances. One of these products is the Delfino DLFC-381 Stainless Steel Coffee Maker 12 cup. This modern style coffee maker with an Italian name is very sleek with straight lines and precise balanced details. It has a removable water tank that sits across the back of the coffee maker that is easy to fill right from the tap and comes with a permanent coffee filter. This saves money, the environment and time from getting out the filters and putting them in the machine and taking the filter out and putting in the garbage. You can brew from 4 cups to all 12 cups. In two hours the warming plate will automatically shut-off as will the two hour keep warm function. A 24 hour programmable timer allows you set the time when you want your coffee made and will even allow you the first cup while it is still brewing your coffee with a pause and serve anti-drip device. Its safety features will automatically shut off the coffee maker water if it starts to boil or if it is dry and plugged in.

A second Delfino product is the model DLFC-378 stainless steel 10 cup coffee maker/grinder combo that automatically brews the freshest cup of coffee. The coffee maker has the features of the DLFC-381 12 cup above. However, this combo grinds the beans then automatically brews the coffee for the freshest cup.

The third product is the Delfino DLCG-559 Intelligent Grinder. This grinder has one-touch operation with 5 grinder settings and a cup slider control with 4 settings. A powerful quiet motor with a precision stainless steel blade grinds beans and spices quickly and uniformly. Yes, it will grind your whole spices too; put just the amount you need in the grinder and choose the settings and touch the button. The removable grinding chamber is stainless steel and dishwasher safe.  The electric cord is retractable into the base for a clutter free counter space.

The last product I am going to mention is the Delfino 1.8 quart brushed stainless steel cordless jug kettle. The water boils faster than a microwave or stove top. It has a water-level window, a hinged lid that snaps tight into place and an enclosed heating chamber. It has a stay-cool handle and rotates 360º on its base keeping full electrical connection. The base also serves as a cord storage area to keep the unneeded cord off the counter.

Toastess International has gone international with this Delfino line and I look forward to see what they will present next. There are more Delfino products, but I think these items offer the best overview that deals with coffee or tea making.

Coffee Containers

There are commercial and non-commercial uses for coffee containers. These containers are known as airpots, decanters, insulated carriers, air gap shuttles, and as a vacuum insulated container.

Airpots come in two sizes, 74 ounce and 101 ounce. They may be double walled, which keeps coffee hot or cold for 24 hours or they may have a thermal glass liner that holds cold or hot liquids longer. Hot coffee in these airpots maintain there flavor and temperature for two hours or more. There lid with a black or orange push plate on top allows for easy recognition of the contents inside and is removable to make cleaning easy. The larger ounce airpot comes in a stainless steel finish with black trim. The 74 ounce is great anywhere you want to serve hot coffee to people who are waiting for your attention and there coffee at church social halls or guests at a gathering. The 101 ounce airpots are great for commercial purposes such as serving coffee to customers in a restaurant or banquet. The 74 ounce double walled airpot is great for convention and banquet tables. These pots swivel 360° and one push fills the cup to the top.

Decanters are sometimes better known as glass coffee pots or carafes. They can hold from four up to twelve cups and may come with color coded tops of black and orange. Small home sized decanters usually come in white or black to match the owners décor.

No matter the size, these decanters are great for the home brewer or for any commercial brewer that accepts them. These decanters can be found in restaurants, offices, lunch rooms and homes, apartments, or even motor homes.     

Insulated carriers and shuttles are meant to do just that. They are meant to be used to carry coffee to a satellite station. These carriers are insulated, 1.5 gallon in size and have a unique locking lid and carrier holder that keeps the carrier firmly on the brewer made to go them. An air gap shuttle is meant for the same purpose. They are also 1.5 gallon in size. Both were designed to bring the coffee to waitress stations or self-serve stations so customers can serve themselves. When coffee is low, replace with a new full carrier or shuttle from a main station. You can also brew a new batch into a new clean carrier or shuttle right there on the spot. The satellite brewers have large water tanks to brew another batch.

A vacuum insulated container is double walled stainless steel decanter. They come is two sizes, a 1.9 (64.3 ounces) liter and a 2.5 liter (84.6 ounces). The hold the flavor and temperature of coffee much longer than the standard glass decanter. These go very well with a coffee brewer series or brew stations that have one or more warmers in an office lunch room, cafeteria or deli.     

Whatever your need is for serving coffee, any one of these can be a great asset to the server or the coffee drinkers. From the household decanter to the large carrier and shuttles, they all fill the need to get you or your customers’ cup of coffee or other beverage the best way possible.

Text