How to choose a carob coffee maker for your home. Buying Tips

A coffee maker is an invaluable assistant in preparing invigorating drinks from coffee beans. She is able to prepare a delicious drink for the whole family in a short time, and there is no need to stand over it waiting and control the process, everything happens by itself.

When thinking about which one to choose, you should approach this responsibly; you need to familiarize yourself with their varieties and the advantages of popular models. Among the varieties of such devices used in everyday life, the carob coffee maker stands out, capable of satisfying even a professional barista.

What is a carob coffee maker

The device is an apparatus equipped with a horn-shaped handle. Ground coffee beans are placed in this cone.

Such units are also called “espresso coffee makers” . This is due to the speed of preparation of the drink.

Using such a device is quite simple. You just need to do a few steps:

1. Pour the required amount of coffee powder into the cone.
2. Tamp down the beans.
3. Pour water into the reservoir.
4. Place the cups on a special stand.
5. Press the start button.

The operating principle of a carob coffee maker is quite simple. The liquid in such a unit is forced under pressure through the coffee powder. The finished drink then goes into cups.

How did the device appear?

The very first model was invented at the beginning of the 20th century by the Italian engineer L. Bezzer, who patented his device. It was distinguished by its fast espresso preparation speed, but the coffee in it was bitter due to overheating of the structure.

Soon, several more masters began to conduct experiments and one of them, D. Gadzhia, managed to place a piston inside, which helped the liquid pass through the ground tablet of grains without overheating them. The result was a prototype of a future coffee machine operating under pressure.

Types of carob coffee makers

There are only two types of carob coffee makers:

• pumpless (they are called steam or boiler);
• pump-action

In pumpless ones there is no way to regulate the water pressure. It is in the range of 2-4 bar. According to experts, it is impossible to prepare classic espresso with such pressure.

In a steam coffee maker, water, under the influence of steam, begins to move from the boiler into the horn and passes through the coffee powder.

Devices of the second type are capable of providing much higher pressure (up to 15 bar). Due to this, the capabilities of technology are significantly expanded.

In a pump coffee maker, water is heated to 92-95 °C and transferred to the horn. Due to the relatively low temperature, the drink retains maximum coffee aroma. The espresso is rich and dense.

Pumps in such units come in two varieties:

• household;
• professional.

In the first case, it is not possible to maintain constant pressure. Professional options are considered better.

How to choose a carob coffee maker

A manual coffee maker must meet certain requirements. When making a purchase, attention is paid to a number of important points.

Pressure

The quality of the resulting drink directly depends on this indicator. Therefore, preference should be given to devices that provide pressure within 15 bar. In such machines you can prepare strong, rich espresso.

Water container material

The container intended for water in carob coffee machines can be made of various materials. There is no point in choosing plastic models. The best option is borosilicate glass or fiberglass.

Horn material

Carob-type coffee makers differ from each other in the material used to make the horn. It is desirable that this part be metal. Only then is uniform heating ensured. The drink fully reveals its taste and aroma. In addition, caring for such holders is not difficult.

Plastic horns are considered fragile. And they are not able to provide proper extraction. This results in a slightly sour espresso.

Housing material

When choosing a carob coffee maker for your home, it is recommended to choose metal models. They are considered more durable and reliable. True, many coffee lovers claim that even plastic devices can last a long time.

Number of horns

As a rule, coffee makers with one horn are purchased for use at home. You can also find devices equipped with two holders on sale. They allow you to prepare more shots of espresso at a time. Therefore, such models are often found in offices.

Additional functions

When choosing a coffee maker for your home, you need to pay attention to the additional capabilities of the device. For example, in machines with a cappuccino maker, not only espresso is prepared. It is possible to obtain the milk foam needed for lattes, cappuccinos and macchiatos.

The following functions will be useful:

• water level indicator. Thanks to its presence, the device will prompt you when you need to fill the tank;
• auto shutdown In this case, there will be no need to be near the device during its operation;
• removable tray designed to collect drops. It is easier to maintain than the non-removable option;
• heating the finished drink;
• forced stop. If something goes wrong, work can be stopped at any time;
• Temperature regulator. Thanks to this function, it will be possible to select the optimal degree of heating of the liquid.

Caring for coffee maker models

The key to long-term operation of any device in this group is timely cleaning. In this case, the taste of the drink is also fully preserved.

After brewing, remove any coffee oils if any remain. This is a substance that creates a beautiful foam. But you can’t leave it to the details. Otherwise, the taste of the drink deteriorates and becomes rancid.

Often faced with such a problem as the appearance of scale inside horns and various devices. Even when using clean water, it will certainly form. Because of this, the operation of the mechanisms is disrupted, even the most powerful coffee maker fails ahead of time.

The reason for the appearance and development of pathogenic microorganisms inside the cones and models can be milk residues settling in the cappuccino maker tube.

Not every carob coffee machine supports automatic cleaning. The following events need to be organized periodically:

1. The horn is washed with clean running water after each preparation.
2. Clean the cappuccino maker with a dry cloth. The device is completely removed when dirt forms on it in large quantities. Then it is soaked in a cleaning agent and washed thoroughly.
3. Special horn cleaning tablets are used every month to clean the horn.

They are put in instead of powder, then the coffee machine is started. Immediately after the water supply starts, everything is turned off. 15 minutes is enough for all contaminants in the cone to dissolve. The device is then turned on again to flush the horn with water. The device can be considered cleaned when at least two liters of water have come out.

4. Once a year, planned decalcification of the carob devices is carried out. Special products recommended by the manufacturer help remove scale. If necessary, he will explain what a carob coffee maker is.

Rating of the best coffee makers

Before purchasing, it would be a good idea to study the ratings of carob coffee makers. The TOP steam devices include the following models:

• Polaris PCM 4002 . The device is multifunctional and can last for a long time;
• DeLonghi ESAM 2600. Considered one of the best carob-type coffee makers. The espresso is of the same quality as using coffee machines. True, such a device is quite expensive;
• Kenwood ES 020 . This device allows you to get a quality drink. The unit is reliable, with a metal holder, easy to operate, and its price is relatively low;
• Gaggia Gran Prestige. The body of this model is metal. Therefore, the device is considered to be as reliable as possible. It produces strong, aromatic coffee;
• Philips Saeco HD8323 . Belongs to the group of budget options. It is reliable and easy to use.

DeLonghi ESAM 2600

Gaggia Gran Prestige

Kenwood ES 020

Philips Saeco HD8323

Polaris PCM 4002
Among the best pump-type carob coffee makers are the following models:

• Delonghi EC 680 M/R/BK Dedica. Made in retro style. The body is metal and looks beautiful. The horn is also made of metal. There is a descaling function. The pressure level reaches 15 bar. Another advantage is the removable horn. Due to this, cleaning does not cause any difficulties;
• Vitek VT-1516. A reliable device equipped with an automatic cappuccino maker and a water level indicator. The presence of two metal horns is noted;
• Krups XP 3440. Budget option. The model is powerful and makes it possible to prepare high-quality espresso. The holder is made of metal;
• Polaris PCM 1515E. Semi-automatic device. The controls are simple. Prepares espresso, Americano and cappuccino;
• Kitfort KT-706. Budget semi-automatic model. It is reliable. Easy to maintain.

Kitfort KT 706

Delonghi EC 680

Polaris PCM 1515E

Krups XP 3440

Vitek VT 1516

Which company should you choose?

We can highlight the following brands that produce carob coffee makers and are popular in Russia:

1. Vitek – the brand appeared in Russia in 2000. A wide variety of household appliances are offered, including coffee makers. There are more than 20 models of coffee machines. They include budget, mid-price and premium options.
2. Wacaco is one of the best manufacturers that produces portable coffee maker models. Most models are designed for making coffee where there is no access to an electrical network. To prepare, you only need hot water and powder.
3. Polaris is an organization founded in 1992. The products of this company regularly receive awards and prizes at various exhibitions.
4. Endever is a company from Sweden. It develops household and kitchen appliances. Coffee makers of this brand are distinguished by high pressure, high power and energy savings.
5. De'Longhi is a company from Italy. She started working in 1902. Manufactures carob and drip coffee makers. The brand's products are regularly included in ratings of the best devices. The advantages of coffee makers of this brand: high speed of preparation, ease of cleaning, aroma and rich taste of drinks.
6. Redmond – the company was founded in 2007. Among the coffee makers produced by the company, there are both small models and very large options for preparing 12 cups of coffee at once. Advantages of coffee makers of this brand: cup heating, automatic shut-off, high pressure - up to 12 bar.
7. Scarlett is a brand owned by Russia and China. The company offers small household and kitchen appliances. The main advantages of Scarlett products: low noise level, compact size, availability of a high-quality cappuccino maker.

The most popular coffee recipes

The carob machine can be used to prepare various coffee drinks. The main thing is to strictly adhere to the instructions indicated in the recipe.

Espresso

To make espresso in a carob coffee maker, you will need the following ingredients:

• 9 g coffee powder;
• 30 ml water.

The following manipulations are performed:

1. Coffee powder is placed in the cone and compacted with a tamper.
2. The reservoir is filled with water.
3. The cups are heated with steam and placed on a stand.
4. The device turns on.
5. After 30 seconds, the cups are filled with hot espresso.

Americano

Making an Americano is incredibly easy. To do this, follow the recipe above to brew espresso, but pour it into larger cups. Then all that remains is to pour an additional 60 ml of hot water into the finished drink.

Latte

To make a latte you will need the following products:

• 50 ml espresso;
• 200 ml milk;
• 3 g cinnamon;
• 3 g chopped nuts.

The following actions are performed:

1. Whip the pre-cooled milk using a cappuccino maker.
2. Pour it into a tall glass goblet.
3. Carefully pour the espresso down the side into the same glass.
4. Place milk foam on top.
5. Sprinkle the surface with cinnamon and nuts.

Cappuccino

To get a smooth cappuccino you will need the following products:

• 50 ml espresso;
• 100 ml milk;
• 50 ml whipped cream;
• 20 g chocolate.

Perform the following actions:

1. The milk is heated to 80 °C and poured into a glass.
2. Add hot espresso to the composition.
3. Spread whipped cream on top.

It is recommended to sprinkle the finished cappuccino with chocolate chips

Irish coffee drink

To make incredibly delicious coffee in a coffee maker, you need to make sure you have the following products:

• 18 g ground coffee beans;
• 60 ml water;
• 15 g granulated sugar;
• 60 ml cream;
• 30 ml whiskey.

The recipe involves performing the following steps:

1. Brew two shots of espresso.
2. Mix a tablespoon of water with granulated sugar and simmer on the stove for one minute.
3. Add whiskey and freshly prepared syrup to the espresso.
4. Pour the resulting mixture into a tall glass.
5. Spread the whipped cream evenly on the surface.

Final Thoughts

Nowadays manufacturers produce different types of horn devices. Everyone can choose a coffee maker model not only according to financial capabilities, but also according to taste preferences. The rule “the more expensive the better” often applies here. Safety and reliability, a greater number of possibilities - this is what devices in higher price segments provide. Therefore, it is not recommended to skimp on health and pleasure when drinking coffee. Moreover, expensive models are more accessible to beginners. And all thanks to the fact that all components and working elements are being worked on, including horns for high-quality coffee preparation.

Advantages and disadvantages of carob units

It is worth highlighting the pros and cons of carob coffee makers. Among the positive aspects, the following are noted:

• the drink turns out rich, aromatic, strong;
• the presence of characteristic coffee foam is noted on the surface of the coffee;
• there is no need to control the cooking process;
• the consumption of coffee powder is minimal;
• absence of sediment in the resulting drink;
• cooking speed;
• equipped with additional functionality. Thanks to this, it is possible to obtain a variety of coffee drinks, and not be limited to just espresso and Americano;
• no additional consumables required;
• no need to constantly replace filters;
• ease and simplicity of maintenance.

Despite the huge number of advantages of the devices, they also have a number of disadvantages:

• not equipped with a built-in coffee grinder;
• It is imperative to compact the coffee powder in a holder using a tamper;
• voluminous, take up a lot of space in the kitchen;
• difficulties in preparing cocoa and hot chocolate;
• Only 1-2 servings of coffee are prepared at a time;
• requires regular cleaning;
• cooking is not carried out automatically;
• you need to choose grains crushed to a strictly defined degree;
• noisy work;
• You need to get used to using the device. It is not always possible to compact the coffee powder correctly the first time. As a result, the extraction is weak, the coffee turns out watery and weak;
• is expensive compared to other types of machines designed for brewing coffee drinks.

A carob-type coffee maker allows you to prepare traditional Italian espresso at home. In addition, thanks to this device, it is possible to obtain a number of other coffee drinks. To obtain the desired result, you need to compact the crushed beans correctly and follow the instructions. It is also important to take a responsible approach to the choice of unit. It must meet all requirements.

Types of coffee machines

There are two most popular models of carob coffee makers - pump and steam, each model has its own pros and cons, as well as the distinctive properties of the coffee that can be obtained from them.

Steam - pros and cons, examples

What does a carob steam coffee machine mean:

• This is a device in which water is forced through a coffee pill using steam. It is formed when liquid boils in a boiler.

• The pressure does not rise above 4 - 5 bar, so the extraction efficiency is not high.

• As the water is brought to a boil, the coffee tastes harsh.

• There is no thermostat in steam models, since it is not needed due to design features.

Steam coffee makers are inexpensive, their cost can vary from 2 thousand rubles. They are small in size, so they fit wherever there is little space. The speed of preparing the drink is higher than in a drip coffee maker or French press.

The quality of work does not meet the criteria for delicious coffee, so they are purchased out of ignorance due to the low price. There are few recipes with the basic configuration - cappuccino and espresso. A manual cappuccino maker - pannarello - usually causes difficulties in use.

Which steam coffee maker can you buy:

• Scarlett;

• Polaris;

• Rowenta Allegro;

• Redmond;

• Shinbo.

In first place in terms of the quality of drinks, cost and reliability is the Polaris RSM 4002 model. According to customer reviews, this device organically combines price and quality. All others have worse coffee characteristics after brewing.

Pump-action - advantages and disadvantages, models to choose from

Pump coffee makers have the same operating principle as all carob coffee makers. The water is heated not to the point of boiling - this is a positive quality, but only up to 93 degrees. Next, the pump is turned on with a total pressure of 15 bar (9 of which are working), pushing the liquid through the coffee tablet.

Advantages of a pump coffee maker:

• The aroma of coffee is better preserved;

• cooking speed up to 1 minute;

• In addition to the basic configuration, the design includes many additional functions.

Flaws:

• pump machines are much more expensive than steam engines;

• The dimensions of the device are larger due to large water tanks.

It is better to buy and use pump coffee makers for those people who often brew espresso in large quantities, preferring the good taste, like in coffee shops. Machines require regular care and maintenance to maintain their stated performance.

The cappuccino maker in a pump machine can be automatic - remote or built-in. According to customer reviews, they do not really like milk containers that cannot be removed and washed, and the milk tubes cannot be cleaned.

Models to consider:

• Saeko;

• Bork;

• DeLonghi;

• Nespresso;

• Yura;

• Kenwood.

In first place in popularity is the Delonghi Esam - a miniature coffee machine, although it is difficult for non-professionals to accurately determine the difference between a coffee maker and a coffee machine. The guideline is a price of up to 20 thousand rubles.

Among pump-action carob coffee makers, there are models for home and professional use. This is an important indicator, since household appliances are designed for high loads and warranty repairs will not be carried out if the device breaks down quickly.

Interesting! There is another subclass of pump carob coffee makers that require high skill in preparing drinks - lever ones. These are rare models in which very fine settings are possible. Manual coffee maker. Water supply is carried out using a lever. Such devices are not very common and are designed for preparing coffee from unique varieties, which require their own method of extraction under pressure