tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-45132841411352013052024-02-10T03:31:04.340-05:00The Coffee Lovers CornerBronzihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10499185047657482216noreply@blogger.comBlogger73125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4513284141135201305.post-10518377358852610232016-10-15T11:00:00.000-04:002016-10-15T11:00:20.427-04:00Okay, I've Made My Espresso, Now What Do I Do With The Milk?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I did all of the right things to make espresso at home. I bought myself a good espresso machine. I learned which espresso beans have the best taste and how to grind them to the correct fineness. I managed to insert the gadget with the grinds, known as a portafilter, into the espresso machine, lock it into place, turn on the machine and let her rip. Great espresso!<br />
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But I wanted a cappuccino and Keith wanted a latte. Time to figure out how to steam the milk.<br />
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Keith is always dieting, so he wants nonfat milk. I found out that low fat and nonfat milk foam really easily. Whole milk takes more practice. Same thing with half and half if you want a breve.<br />
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Some espresso machines have a built in steam nozzle and some don't. You may need to buy a separate steamer. I recommend getting an espresso machine with one built in. Saves space.<br />
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The first thing to do is to put that stainless steel pitcher and milk into the refrigerator to get cold. Always start with them cold. And then my next learning curve came with remembering to fill the pitcher about a third to a half full. Milk expands really well when it's steamed. It takes only once for it to foam up, overflow and hit the floor to remember to start with a pitcher no more than half full.<br />
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Start by putting the nozzle on the surface of the milk and turning the steam on full. The milk is going to begin to foam, so keep lowering the pitcher so that the nozzle is just under the surface of the milk. About a half inch will do fine. You can turn down the pressure when the foam really begins to rise, or just take the pitcher away. Now the milk is just about at the boiling point.<br />
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Now here is something important. Don't let it boil. This is another way to get the milk to overflow the pitcher. Or even worse, it will taste burnt. Ugh. Nasty.<br />
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Your steamed milk should have little bubbles all the way through it, and there should be a light foam on the top. There you are. That's it. Now you go make whatever espresso drink you want. Next up, you can start learning how to make all those fancy designs in the top.<br />
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In this video below, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Moiw7Vi_Rjw" target="_blank">Nate</a> from Guilt Free Drinks is going to show you how to make steamed milk at home. You don't need any special equipment. Now you can enjoy lattes at home anytime.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Moiw7Vi_Rjw" width="425"></iframe>
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In this video below, <a class="yt-uix-sessionlink g-hovercard spf-link " data-sessionlink="itct=CDIQ4TkiEwim7qPE8YLJAhWPFL4KHSRvA3oo-B0" data-ytid="UCpOxsI550pKQZpHYhdwV0uQ" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V3VyOcoGhrw" target="_blank">George Murga</a> shows how to make milk froth for a latte using only a pot and an egg beater on your stove top.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/V3VyOcoGhrw" width="425"></iframe>
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How to prepare yourself a nice latte or cappuccino at home without an espresso machine or any other specialized contraption, here's how you can prepare the milk froth with just a pot, a whisk and a stove top. Oh, you'll need milk too, of course! :-) Enjoy!<br />
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Coffee is the worlds most popular and consumed beverage. It is usually served hot prepared from the roasted seed of coffee beans. Its popularity has given birth to many kinds of instant coffee. The word coffee entered the English way back in 1598 from the Italian word “caffa” via the Turkish word “kahveh” through the Arabic word “qahwa”. The ultimate origin of the word is uncertain there being several legendary account of the origin of the drink.<br />
<a name='more'></a>Coffee is such a drink which is liked by all people irrespective of their age or geographical location. Coffee is made either hot or cold. The cold preparation of coffee is as popular as the hot one. You can have your coffee with or without milk or simply with some whipped cream to make it sinfully delicious.<br />
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Coffee is the second most traded commodity in the world next to petroleum. The popularity of coffee can also be judged by the rising number of coffee pubs and cafes all over the world. People of all the age groups can be found hanging at such cafes enjoying their cup of coffee. In the morning, in the afternoon or in the nights the coffee house business does not stop.<br />
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Many researches have shown that coffee reduces the risk of a number of diseases and ailments like diabetes, gall stones, cirrhosis and many more. Coffee forms the chief source of stimulant caffeine in the human body. The good and bad effects of coffee are still being researched on. A cup of coffee, when you are really down, can make you more alert and boost your power of reasoning. Anything, including coffee, when taken in moderation does not have an adverse effect on your health.<br />
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Like cocoa and banana coffee is a tropical export that is produced almost exclusively in the rain forests of the developing world, but is mainly consumed in the wealthier nations. Fortunately more and more coffee drinkers are demanding that their favorite baristas serve coffee that is grown in a manner that protects and not destroys the rain forests.<br />
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Did you know that the farmers all over the world harvested 7.4 million tons of coffee in 2002 , an all time high , and almost double the amount harvested in 1960. It is also remarkable that one out of every five cups of coffee worldwide is consumed in the United States. Meetings are held, proposals are discussed, marriages are proposed, deals are finalized, and a lot more happens over the magical cup of coffee or java.Bronzihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10499185047657482216noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4513284141135201305.post-5099664825942735002016-09-30T10:00:00.000-04:002016-09-30T02:08:47.024-04:00Coffee May Lower Risk of Getting Prostate Cancer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Using sample of 47,911 men, a team of researchers led by Lorelei Mucci, ScD, MPH, associate professor of epidemiology at the Harvard School of Public Health, found that regular drinking of decaf or regular caffeinated coffee may protect men against prostate cancer. <br />
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Citing Mucci, <a href="http://webmd.com/">webmd.com</a> reported that heavy coffee drinkers who drinking at least six or more cups a day could lower 60% risk of prostate cancer compared to nondrinkers. For medium coffee drinkers who drinking one to three cups daily could lower the risk factor by 29% compared to nondrinkers. <br />
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Data provided by American Cancer Society shows that in America today there were 217,730 cases of prostate cancer while close to 15% of those died annually. <br />
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Now in this video you will see that this study has been going on for 20 years. Dr. William Catalona at Northwestern Memorial Hospital says, "If they can figure out what is in the coffee that prevents prostate cancer that they can come up with the cure for prostate cancer".<br />
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So, guys this gives you a great reason to have those extra cups of coffee. Ladies I will have a future post on coffee and cervical cancer. <br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Starbucks-Natural-Flavored-11-Ounce-Packages/dp/B003GTR8IO?ie=UTF8&tag=brswegist-20&link_code=bil&camp=213689&creative=392969" imageanchor="1" target="_blank"><img alt="Starbucks Natural Fusions Ground Coffee, Vanilla Flavored, 11-Ounce Packages (Pack of 2)" src="http://ws.amazon.com/widgets/q?MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL160_&ASIN=B003GTR8IO&tag=brswegist-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=brswegist-20&l=bil&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B003GTR8IO" height="1" style="border: currentColor !important; margin: 0px !important; padding: 0px !important;" width="1" /><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Starbucks-Sumatra-Coffee-Whole-12-Ounce/dp/B001EQ5O5U?ie=UTF8&tag=brswegist-20&link_code=bil&camp=213689&creative=392969" imageanchor="1" target="_blank"><img alt="Starbucks Sumatra Coffee, Whole Bean, 12-Ounce Bags (Pack of 3)" src="http://ws.amazon.com/widgets/q?MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL160_&ASIN=B001EQ5O5U&tag=brswegist-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=brswegist-20&l=bil&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B001EQ5O5U" height="1" style="border: currentColor !important; margin: 0px !important; padding: 0px !important;" width="1" /><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Starbucks-VIA%25ae-Vanilla-Flavored-Coffee/dp/B004303CYO?ie=UTF8&tag=brswegist-20&link_code=bil&camp=213689&creative=392969" imageanchor="1" target="_blank"><img alt="Starbucks VIA® Ready Brew Vanilla Flavored Coffee" src="http://ws.amazon.com/widgets/q?MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL160_&ASIN=B004303CYO&tag=brswegist-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=brswegist-20&l=bil&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B004303CYO" height="1" style="border: currentColor !important; margin: 0px !important; padding: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br />
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Image: <a href="http://www.starbucks.com/menu/catalog/product?drink=brewed-coffee#view_control=product">Starbucks</a><br />
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<img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=brswegist-20&l=bil&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=1574160141" style="border: currentColor !important; margin: 0px !important; padding: 0px !important;" width="1" />While coffee may be one of the most popular drinks around, millions are forced to do without it because of heartburn, acid reflux, chronic stomach discomfort and other gastrointestinal issues. The problem, it seems, has to do with the very thing that gives coffee so much flavor: the roasting. But that may soon change.<br />
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Joseph Schmer, M.D., a gastrointestinal medical specialist and former co-chief of gastroenterology for Methodist Hospital in Brooklyn, NY, has seen for years just how large of a problem stomach issues are for coffee drinkers. "During the coffee-roasting process, natural acids form which can lead to heartburn, indigestion and upset stomach," he explains. "Reducing these irritants allows coffee drinkers with sensitive stomachs to enjoy coffee." <br />
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People with sensitive stomachs may want to check out brews such as Coffee Legends' Gentle Java, a <u><a href="http://amzn.to/2cg6dUM" target="_blank">new coffee</a></u> designed specifically for coffee drinkers who say coffee upsets their stomachs. The java is made from an all-natural steam process-popular in Europe for about 60 years-that reduces around 70 percent of all impurities and irritants. The steaming leaves the coffee aroma, flavor and caffeine completely intact-meaning coffee drinkers without sensitive stomachs can enjoy the brew, too. <br />
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Gentle Java is good news for those who rely on coffee to help focus or for anyone who wants to benefit from coffee's antioxidant qualities.<br />
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While caffeine has long been known to help asthmatics prevent attacks, recent studies have shown coffee consumption can have several other health benefits.<br />
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Drinking coffee has been associated with a lower risk of gallstone disease in men, reduced risk of kidney stone formation and a reduced risk of colon cancer.<br />
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Other studies have found coffee to be a good source of potassium, helpful in promoting the effectiveness of migraine medications, and a way of protecting against free-radical damage to tissues. One study found it had more antioxidant activity than red wine, green or black tea or orange juice.<br />
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<img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=brswegist-20&l=bil&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=1594868107" style="border: currentColor !important; margin: 0px !important; padding: 0px !important;" width="1" />Diabetes is a disease in which the body does not produce or properly use insulin. Insulin is a hormone that is needed to convert sugar, starches and other food into energy needed for daily life. The cause of diabetes continues to be a mystery, although both genetics and environmental factors such as obesity and lack of exercise appear to play roles.<br />
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Research suggests that people who drink coffee are less likely to get type 2 diabetes. It isn't known whether the caffeine or some other ingredient in coffee is responsible for its protective effects.<br />
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The researchers wanted to see whether there is a link between diabetes and drinking coffee and green, black, and oolong tea. Participants completed a detailed questionnaire about their health, lifestyle habits, and how much coffee and tea they drank. The questionnaire was repeated at the end of the 5-year follow-up period.<br />
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When other factors were accounted for, researchers found that the more green tea and coffee participants drank, the less likely they were to get diabetes. People who drank six cups or more of green tea or three or more cups of coffee each day were about one-third less likely to get diabetes. The link was stronger in women than in men. No pattern was seen with black or oolong tea. (see Diabetes Symptoms)<br />
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Vitamin D and Calcium May Lower the Risk for Type 2 Diabetes in Women<br />
A lack of vitamin D and calcium may be linked to getting type 2 diabetes. More than 80,000 women who took part in the Nurses' Health Study. Over the course of 20 years, over 4,800 women developed type 2 diabetes. The researchers found that a combined intake of over 1,200 milligrams of calcium and over 800 units of vitamin D was linked with a 33% lower risk for type 2 diabetes (as compared to women who took much smaller amounts of calcium and vitamin D). The results show that consuming higher amounts of vitamin D and calcium help lower the risk for type 2 diabetes in women.<br />
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Diabetes is a disorder characterized by hyperglycemia or elevated blood glucose (blood sugar). Our bodies function best at a certain level of sugar in the bloodstream. If the amount of sugar in our blood runs too high or too low, then we typically feel bad. Diabetes is the name of the condition where the blood sugar level consistently runs too high. Diabetes is the most common endocrine disorder.<br />
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Recommended reading: <span class="a-list-item"><a href="http://amzn.to/2cMIDP9" target="_blank">Dr. Neal Barnard's Program for Reversing Diabetes: The Scientifically Proven System for Reversing Diabetes without Drugs</a></span><br />
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It's Monday morning and the alarm is screaming at you that it's time to drag yourself out of bed and get the day started. Your eyes open begrudgingly and you toss the blanket aside. A deep sigh escapes your lungs as your bare feet land on the ice cold floor beside your bed. You stand and stretch, warming up those muscles that are still sleeping. Another day, another dollar, you think to yourself and make your way out to the kitchen.<br />
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<a name='more'></a>Only one thing can get this day jumpstarted for you. You need a steaming hot cup of Joe, freshly brewed to your exacting standards. <a href="http://www.bunnathome.com/brew-better">Stainless steel coffee makers</a> just might be the best idea any one on the planet has ever had, and boy do you wish it had been yours. Ah well, at least you get to benefit from the idea, you think as you scoop your favorite coffee grounds into the filter.<br />
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The <u><a href="http://amzn.to/2cfQlAf" target="_blank">coffee percolates</a></u> while you listen. The sound is so soothing in the otherwise unbelievably quiet morning. Peeks of warm, yellow sunshine through the window catch your eye, making you smile. The fragrant aroma of a perfectly brewed pot of coffee wafts over you. It is time.<br />
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You grab your favorite mug from the cupboard and pour some nectar of the gods into it, filling it as full as you dare, before taking a sip. That <a href="http://www.bunnathome.com/">stainless steel coffee maker</a> is the best investment you ever made. If you were stranded on a deserted island and you could only have one personal possession to accompany you, your coffee maker wins that contest hands down.<br />
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Sipping that delicious cup of coffee gives you the inspiration and motivation you need to finish that morning routine of getting ready for another day in the rat race. You polish off the remainder of your cup and set it in the sink, because now it's time to get showered and dressed and face the morning commute.<br />
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Well, you have a few minutes still before you really have to get moving, so you pour another cup of coffee to enjoy. Really, truly, the person who thought up the idea for a <a href="http://www.bunnathome.com/">coffee maker for the home</a> was a genius! You wish you could shake the hand of that brilliant soul who made it possible for you to get up every morning and have your own pot of brewed coffee in your kitchen while still wearing your pajamas. Well, you had better start getting ready for work or you will be late. Once you are dressed and about to grab your keys and head out, you remember to grab your travel mug and fill it up. You are going to want one for the road.<br />
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Article Source: <a href="http://www.articlesbase.com/coffee-articles/home-coffee-makers-better-than-sliced-bread-4839777.html" title="Home Coffee Makers – Better Than Sliced Bread">http://www.articlesbase.com/coffee-articles/home-coffee-makers-better-than-sliced-bread-4839777.html</a><br />
<strong>Author: <a href="http://www.articlesbase.com/authors/aaliyah/951534" title="aaliyah">aaliyah</a></strong><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCE1upTCRyLNQS0DLcL5NDTjJSMvqxAx6Ua_8_52Rrp-G7yx8bhb4dEtdJ88IIlTsCFyLWGpMeG7v6yQqV-ee7EOAAbXaG7O_VUj3h4A0bugcxemy_hCwbG2lal7_ZqLinNJrbF2zHMm0/s1600/brownies_on_plate.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCE1upTCRyLNQS0DLcL5NDTjJSMvqxAx6Ua_8_52Rrp-G7yx8bhb4dEtdJ88IIlTsCFyLWGpMeG7v6yQqV-ee7EOAAbXaG7O_VUj3h4A0bugcxemy_hCwbG2lal7_ZqLinNJrbF2zHMm0/s200/brownies_on_plate.png" width="133" /></a></div>
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These brownies are not for you if caffeine keeps you awake, unless you enjoy them after lunch or unless you are cramming for an exam. Then this is the perfect coffee brownies recipe for you.<br />
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<strong>Ingredients</strong><br />
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips<br />
1/4 cup butter<br />
1 egg<br />
1 egg yolk<br />
2/3 cup flour<br />
1/2 cup sugar<br />
1 tbs coffee granules<br />
1/8 tsp baking soda<br />
1 tbs Kahlua<br />
1 tbs vanilla<br />
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<strong>Method</strong><br />
Preheat oven to 350F. In a saucepan, melt chocolate and butter together. Remove from heat and stir in coffee granules, egg and extra egg yolk. In a separate bowl, sift together flour, sugar and baking soda. Add dry ingredients to the chocolate mixture. Stir in vanilla and Kahlua. Pour batter into a 8x8 baking pan, and bake for 20 - 25 minutes. Let brownies cool and cut into squares. These brownies are so delicious that maybe the ingredients should be doubled! Can add toffee bits, chopped up chocolate bars, walnuts or pecans. Serve with vanilla ice cream. <br />
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photo <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/briannaorg/408547244/">Brianna Privett</a>Bronzihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10499185047657482216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4513284141135201305.post-71298067605484037242016-08-24T17:00:00.000-04:002016-08-24T17:00:06.310-04:00After Dinner Coffee<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdHlzPfBzlg2wqMcV4rq_FBpSjgTuO-wcCmQTXHYY2R1ZfwNPakp3UTFaOtGIzIp8NINbA-rSVndOuJ49vxBQKSSplIFItgI3xMd1mCoehrKYl4eN4c01rcY12p4P5TMKJ46IrfGmTI3k/s1600/hot_coffee_drink_with_cream.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdHlzPfBzlg2wqMcV4rq_FBpSjgTuO-wcCmQTXHYY2R1ZfwNPakp3UTFaOtGIzIp8NINbA-rSVndOuJ49vxBQKSSplIFItgI3xMd1mCoehrKYl4eN4c01rcY12p4P5TMKJ46IrfGmTI3k/s1600/hot_coffee_drink_with_cream.png" /></a></div>
4 (1 ounce) packages instant cocoa1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon instant coffee<br />
4 cups boiling water<br />
1/4 cup brandy<br />
Whipped cream<br />
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Combine instant cocoa and coffee; add boiling water, stirring until cocoa and coffee dissolve. Stir in brandy. Pour coffee into mugs; top with whipped cream.<br />
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Yield: 4 servings Bronzihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10499185047657482216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4513284141135201305.post-46121231127947363252015-11-16T09:00:00.001-05:002015-11-16T09:00:00.107-05:00Organization Helps Change The World With Coffee<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGlvQ_yStDqdFyz-qNAoW-RS-_wn9PpmLHj6QcRJ9u4WkSvSY3lkBtaASh7MsBbx8_PIIkcB8MV3Te1eu1tD8B3p-tonMpzq_n-wbBwGEvECA-nHzJhBdbneQMZuvpglJsKA27Oq_9if4/s1600/French+Press+Coffee+Maker.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGlvQ_yStDqdFyz-qNAoW-RS-_wn9PpmLHj6QcRJ9u4WkSvSY3lkBtaASh7MsBbx8_PIIkcB8MV3Te1eu1tD8B3p-tonMpzq_n-wbBwGEvECA-nHzJhBdbneQMZuvpglJsKA27Oq_9if4/s200/French+Press+Coffee+Maker.png" width="200" /></a></div>
You can make a difference in the world every day, simply by purchasing coffee.<br />
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Green Mountain Coffee Roasters of Vermont is introducing Heifer Hope Blend, a new organic coffee whose sales will help improve the lives of small-scale coffee farmers in Guatemala. Forty cents of every bag purchased will be given to Heifer International, a nonprofit organization dedicated to fighting hunger worldwide.<br />
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The partnership between Heifer and Green Mountain Coffee Roasters will bring needed assistance to impoverished farmers of the La Voz area in San Juan la Laguna and other communities in Guatemala.<br />
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Coffee prices today are so low that many small-scale farmers are unable to make a living growing coffee. With Heifer's help, the farmers at La Voz will learn to grow certified organic, shade-grown premium coffee. Green Mountain Coffee then will buy the coffee from the farmers at fair-trade prices - a guaranteed wage that is higher than what the farmers would get on the conventional market - and roast and package it as Heifer Hope Blend.<br />
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The farmers will earn a premium price and Heifer will extend its work to more poor families.<br />
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With the money earned by Heifer Hope Blend, Heifer also will help coffee-growing families diversify their sources of income by giving them livestock - cows, goats and other income-producing farm animals. This extra income means better nutrition, housing, health care and education.<br />
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Since 1944, Heifer has helped millions of impoverished families move toward self-reliance by <br />
providing them with livestock and earth-friendly agricultural training. Heifer then asks the families to "pass on the gift" by donating their animals' offspring to others, thereby helping to lift entire communities out of poverty.<br />
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Green Mountain Coffee has made a commitment to social responsibility and the environment<br />
as well, annually setting aside 5 percent of its pre-tax profits to support charitable causes.<br />
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"We are truly excited about partnering with socially and environmentally responsible corporations such as Green Mountain Coffee," said Cynthia Hester, Heifer's director of corporate partnerships. "It's important that nonprofits find new ways of encouraging companies to extend their values into the nonprofit world."<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_pz3cqM8w6zXBpHisyCPCh9n6-sN-0KxyMU-flAS8OG5Xg2VjpGKBinkv2OD0MlLuw0LwAlpWXg1VhxHIj6cyDw-MSwVTP36Pq9OqPp3oRo4TBkk5c3bHRsKz5bLi4ehyphenhyphenmaXojNerQoY/s1600/full_coffee_cup.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_pz3cqM8w6zXBpHisyCPCh9n6-sN-0KxyMU-flAS8OG5Xg2VjpGKBinkv2OD0MlLuw0LwAlpWXg1VhxHIj6cyDw-MSwVTP36Pq9OqPp3oRo4TBkk5c3bHRsKz5bLi4ehyphenhyphenmaXojNerQoY/s1600/full_coffee_cup.png" /></a></div>
Today, I will propose to you how to make a great cup of coffee. You can do it. There are a few secrets to the process. I will share these with you.<br />
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Start with the bean and pick your roast. The quality coffee can only come from a quality coffee bean that is properly roasted. The process of roasting a coffee bean is complex and can result in a given bean tasting very different depending on how it is roasted. If you desire a strong intense flavor to your coffee, choose a dark roast (ex: French Roast). If you like to a light flavor, less intense, choose a lighter roast.<br />
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Never use pre-ground coffee. Pre-ground coffee will lose its flavor and essence within a short period of time. Grinding before you brew will assure you that no flavor is lost due to time.<br />
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Always use cold filtered water when brewing your coffee. The water you use represents 98% of your cup of coffee. Filtering the water will remove impurities that could affect the taste. Poor quality water can come from a variety of sources. Example, older house will have older pipes. Theses pipes tend to give the water an off flavor. You will want to remove this by filtering. The basic rule is the better the water, the better the coffee.<br />
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Skip the paper filters and go for the gold. Yes, these are 23k Gold plated stainless steel filters. Paper filters will influence the flavor of the coffee in a negative manner. The Gold plated filters influence the flavor by allowing natural oils to infiltrate into your brew, adding a level of flavor and aroma you wont find with paper coffee filters. Another plus is that these filters can be reused over and over, and will last a very long time. Not only will your coffee be better, but you will be helping the environment by saving on waste.<br />
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Never over do it on the add-ins. Cut down on the sugar, cream, and other flavor add-ins to really enjoy the true essence of the brew. If we disguise the coffee to much; we will never know the true taste.<br />
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Part of what makes a great cup of coffee is how and when we enjoy it. We all have our favorite time and rituals. For me, nothing beats enjoying a great cup of coffee on a Sunday morning and reading the paper.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Vf0yfBMle-Y" width="425"></iframe>
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vf0yfBMle-Y" target="_blank">How to make a great cup of coffee</a><br />
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I tried this, and it was fantastic. The salt really does make a difference too. No more instant coffee for me, lol. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMTeEBI4ezwSgfTMT7n4UpnopafQtslgaps88eHGYjPBCusdWqbPi146-LGCrtpfyYWBofd7e_N7y5akU1bcW6sKouw2MQiC4UHVHbo0AWhBmuN6K4-6p-QsDvp8HTJKZj_U_RC6_Ge5g/s1600/CAPPUCCINO+VIVACE.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMTeEBI4ezwSgfTMT7n4UpnopafQtslgaps88eHGYjPBCusdWqbPi146-LGCrtpfyYWBofd7e_N7y5akU1bcW6sKouw2MQiC4UHVHbo0AWhBmuN6K4-6p-QsDvp8HTJKZj_U_RC6_Ge5g/s1600/CAPPUCCINO+VIVACE.png" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
Drinking espresso has become a way of life for most people, particularly those who have heavy schedules and who take time out to relax with a cup of freshly brewed espresso or coffee.<br />
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Coffee is so popular it is believed that it comes next to water as a popular drink. The whole world loves a good cup of coffee that annual consumption can reach to as high as 400 billion coffee cups all over the world.<br />
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Most avid coffee or espresso drinkers can have a cup of espresso a day or even more, without knowing where this rousing beverage came from. That heavenly brew comes from coffee beans that are sourced from evergreen trees that are grown all over the world. The evergreen tree is widely grown in Latin America, Indonesia, Hawaii, Southeast Asia and in Africa.<br />
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While the word espresso may have come from an Italian word meaning express or fast, it really is a misnomer since espresso or brewed coffee have to undergo a process before one can enjoy its freshly brewed taste. To make a good espresso, one has to start with a good coffee variety that must have undergone proper grinding. A good espresso maker handled by a capable barista can yield an espresso that can taste heavenly. The goodness of an espresso can be determined even from its aroma alone.<br />
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Coffee drinkers who are serious about making good espresso should invest in a good espresso machine. Good espresso machines come in a variety of brands, sizes and prices. You need not spend more to get a good espresso machine because there are good espresso makers that are reason ably priced. When making the espresso, always remember to turn on the espresso machine and allow it to heat properly. Establishments that have fast espresso orders do not really put off their machines to make sure it is properly heated for every espresso order.<br />
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When buying coffee beans, it is better to grind them as you use them because keeping them even in a tight container after grinding can result to a loss of aroma. Attention should also be placed on the type of grinder being used, with conical burr grinders preferred than flat burr grinders. The grinder with a conical burr is preferred because it can grind the beans without heating them and lessening their aroma in the process.<br />
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While the kind of coffee beans used for the espresso must be chosen well, baristas should also make sure that only filtered water is used for the espresso as the water’s mineral content can affect the taste of the espresso.<br />
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When one finds a good coffee blend, the tendency is to buy more for storage. When you do this, do not commit the mistake of keeping coffee in the freezer or refrigerator. It is best to store them in a container that is foolproof and clean and place them in a dark and cool area.<br />
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How to Steam Milk with Espresso Machine | Perfect Coffee<br />
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Learn how to steam milk with an espresso machine from the experts at Third Rail Coffee in this Howcast video.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/Q45zCLnLyuE" width="480"></iframe><br />
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Mike Jones is a barista at Third Rail Coffee right by Washington Square Park in New York City. I'm going to teach you some basic coffee-making skills.<br />
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Mike is going to show you how to steam milk with an espresso machine. The wonderful thing about espresso is that besides just a straight shot and an Americano, there's a multitude of milk drinks you can make. But first you have to know how to steam it right, which is a little bit tricky. <br />
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So this is the steam wand, and this turns it on. Some machines will have a button that you push, or a level that you pull, this one is a knob that rotates. You want to start out with high quality whole milk that's cold as well as a pitcher that's also cold. <br />
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So we have that in there. Now there's a few motions that you're going to want to go through when doing this. The first is to submerge the tip of the steam wand just below the surface of the milk. Start off with the pitcher straight up, and then angle it, this way when you turn it on you'll create a whirlpool. The first thing you do when you turn it on is let a little bit of air in, but you only want to do this for a few seconds, otherwise you'll end up scorching the milk. <br />
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Once you've let the air in, you sink the tip of the wand in and just let it whirlpool until it gets to the correct temperature. So now I'm going to steam this and show you how it should look. The first thing you always want to do is purge.<br />
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There can be buildup of milk or water in the tip and you don't want that going into the milk. Alright, so again, I'm just going to let some air in. It's going to make a slight hissing sound, and then I'm going to make a whirlpool. Then again, always purge afterwards to get that milk out of there. So once you've steamed it, you can give it a couple knocks. You'll see that there's just a few bubbles in there. And then swirl it around to incorporate all that foam you just made. You'll see it's nice and glossy. <br />
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This is called micro foam. If you see too many spidery bubbles, that means that you've either let too much air in, or not enough. Alright, that's perfect. And that's how you steam milk.<br />
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Watch more How to Make the Best Coffee videos on <a href="http://www.howcast.com/videos/494714-How-to-Make-a-Caffe-Macchiato-Perfect-Coffee" target="_blank">Howcast</a>.<br />
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According to 2005 National Coffee Drinking Trends, published by the National Coffee Association of U.S.A. Inc., more than 53 percent of consumers age 18 and older drink coffee on a daily basis, up from 49 percent in 2004. That translates into 7.7 million new coffee drinkers.<br />
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With consumers enjoying a wider range of coffee drinks in offices, corner cafes and restaurants, they are also demanding better-tasting coffee at home. Here are a few ideas for a better brew:<br />
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* Pressure-brewed is best. In blind tests, more people prefer the taste of coffee that is high-pressure brewed, versus any other method. High-pressure-brewed coffee requires the use of pump-pressure coffee machines, like espresso machines.<br />
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* All pressure-coffee machines are not equal. There are several types of these machines. Steam-driven espresso machines create pressure in a closed boiler, then force the hot water through the coffee. Most can make up to 10 ounces of coffee at a time. A pump espresso machine pumps hot water through ground coffee faster than a steam machine, creating more pressure with better flavor and aroma.<br />
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Automatic coffee centers, like those from Jura-Capresso, provide maximum flavor and aroma because they grind the beans just before the high-pressure brewing process. These machines control all aspects of high-pressure brewing, resulting in a better quality beverage, regardless of whether you choose an espresso, cappuccino, latte or just a large cup of pressure-brewed coffee.<br />
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* Look for crema. Crema is thick frothy foam that sits on top of pressure-brewed coffee or espresso, trapping all the flavor and aroma underneath.<br />
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* A high-pressure-brewed coffee should always be the base for your cappuccino or latte. If you prefer cappuccinos or lattes, experiment with the amount of milk to suit your taste. Remember, coffee does not have calories, but milk does.<br />
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* Determine your price range. Take a look at your coffee-drinking habits. If you purchase two cappuccinos a day, you may be spending about $1,900 a year on gourmet coffee. For less than this, you can purchase an automatic coffee center from Jura-Capresso that produces the same quality found in the coffeehouses.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSWNPfmRcyRvMRgD6X1cshZvXnLcxvmY9eNvOhTmYf8i3BFHalZQeoayjiSBQcZjZ_7Mdgo4Ws2sLksXym26r0TZdPYd95clawEfWZJHRiZiDMSwLW_TCrxO80Lwy_W9MhVk0v5-wzi6k/s1600/coffee+plant.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSWNPfmRcyRvMRgD6X1cshZvXnLcxvmY9eNvOhTmYf8i3BFHalZQeoayjiSBQcZjZ_7Mdgo4Ws2sLksXym26r0TZdPYd95clawEfWZJHRiZiDMSwLW_TCrxO80Lwy_W9MhVk0v5-wzi6k/s1600/coffee+plant.png" /></a></div>
The island of Jamaican is known for many things, sandy beaches, reggae music, Bob Marley and coffee. The high regard for Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee among avid coffee drinkers has driven its price up to between $26 and $40 a pound. What is it about this particular brew that warrants such a high price tag?<br />
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True to its name, Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee is grown in the Blue Mountain region of Jamaica, generally located between Kingston to the south and Port Maria to the north. Rising to 7,500 feet, the Blue Mountains are the highest point in the Caribbean. The area is characterized by cool, wet weather and dark, rich soil with good drainage, ideal conditions for cultivating coffee. Though coffee is not native to Jamaica, it is the chief export of the island.<br />
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Not just any old cup of Joe can call itself Jamaican Blue Mountain. The Coffee Industry Board of Jamaica must certify every bag of coffee to ensure only the highest quality beans bear the prestigious trademark. The Board only recognizes beans grown in specific parishes of Jamaica: St. Andrew, St. Thomas, Portland and St. Mary.<br />
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The Coffee Industry Regulation Act established a system of three grades of Jamaican Blue Mountain based on the screen or size of the bean. The term screen refers to the literal screens of various dimensions used to sort the beans according to their size. The theory behind this practice is that beans grown in higher altitudes are larger and make better-tasting coffee than those grown in lower altitudes.<br />
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The rigorous quality standard for Jamaican Blue Mountain excludes beans that would probably be considered fine for other coffees. The screening process also helps to eliminate maragogipe (elephant beans). A mutant strain believed to have originated on Brazil, elephant beans are large, green, porous beans that seem to absorb the flavor of the soil they grown in. The jury is still out on their worth, but they are considered an insufferable defect for Jamaican Blue Mountain production.<br />
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At least 96 percent of the beans used must be of the same size and bluish-green tint. No more than two percent can stray from that standard in any way. Sour or black beans, or foreign matter of any kind, are considered unforgivable defects and do not fall under the two-percent rule. The most unbending benchmark is needed to maintain the traits that coffee drinkers have come to expect.<br />
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The geographical area that grows Jamaican Blue Mountain beans is relatively small and can only produce so much coffee. The limited quantity, the matchless quality resulting from painstaking cultivation, the alluring aroma and the renowned name of Jamaican Blue Mountain have undoubtedly contributed to its reputation as one of the most sought-after coffees in the world. As long as hard-core coffee drinkers continue to demand it, it will also be one of the most expensive.<br />
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Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee - A Short Documentary<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/sp5M3HFA6xU" width="480"></iframe>
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<br />
Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee - A Short Documentary by Blue Mountain Coffee (Europe) Limited - www.bluemountaincoffeejamaica.com and www.seaislandcoffee.com - produced and narrated by Guy Wilmot<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/og7Qq_GC9UQ" width="480"></iframe>
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<br />
The History of Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee Beans<br />
An animated history of the journey that it took to get the worlds best Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee Beans. <br />
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J Martinez lays out a fun history of coffee and the nearly impossible journey ~ from the discovery of the dancing goats eating "magical" coffee beans to the eventual perfection that is Blue Mountains of Jamaica coffee plantations.<br />
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<a href="http://www.martinezfinecoffees.com/specialty-coffee-espresso-blue-mountain/jamaica-blue-mountain-coffee.html" target="_blank">J. Martinez & Company</a> is world renown for their spectacular Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee beans. Visit them online right now. Your beans are roasted to order!<br />
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An increasing number of us nowadays are wondering how to select a single serve coffee maker that will suit us best at home. These kinds of coffeemaker are designed to produce – as you might expect – a single cup of coffee at a time and they are becoming increasingly popular amongst all kinds of coffee drinkers.<br />
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In the past we’ve been a bit limited in our choices of coffee maker – we’ve often, for example, had to make a whole pot of fresh coffee just to enjoy a single cup but things are different nowadays. <br />
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<strong>The Advantages</strong><br />
The advantages of single serve coffee stations are primarily found in the fact that they can make just one serving of coffee at a time and that they work real quick as a consequence in comparison to multi serve machines. So, you won’t need to waste coffee or won’t need to make more coffee than you’ll actually drink in one sitting.<br />
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And, if you choose one of the new single serve pod systems as your final choice here, then you can simply slip a small individual coffee pod into the machine, make your cup of coffee and then throw the pod away. So, there’ll minimal cleaning up and maintenance to do as well! <br />
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You can even pick and choose the kinds of coffee you want to drink with these kinds of machines as the pods can come in various types, roasts and flavors. Major coffee companies that make coffee for these pods currently include some big names in the sector such as Douwe Egberts, Melitta and Folgers – so you’ll get a guarantee of coffee experience and quality at the same time as well. <br />
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<strong>Two Types</strong><br />
There are basically two ways to use a single serve coffee maker. In the first instance you can buy a conventional coffee machine that uses standard ground coffee via a normal filter system but which only brews a single cup of coffee at a time rather than making up a whole big pot. It is worth noting here that some of these machines may sometimes be able to brew up two cups instead of just one which could give you a little more flexibility.<br />
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In either case the machine here will brew up directly into your cup extremely quickly and efficiently. Some of these kinds of models even come with their own mug when you buy them!<br />
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As single serve machines go this kind of option is reliable but kind of uninspiring if you’re looking for something a little different in your coffee drinking. But, if you’re still wondering how to select a single serve coffee maker then this may be a good option for you if you simply want an affordable and compact coffee maker for one/two people. Some of these machines are real tiny nowadays and could easily just sit on the end of a desk for real ease of use without taking up too much space. <br />
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But, if you want something a little bit more exciting from a single serve coffee maker then you really should also consider something along the lines of one of these new pod systems we’ve already mentioned. These single serve machines (such as those in the Philips Senseo range, for example) are designed to take a single pod that contains a specific brand, roast or type of coffee at a time. <br />
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You unwrap the pod from its packaging, place it in the machine and it brews your coffee up for you into the cup. You can then simply throw the used pod into the trash. Again it’s worth noting that some pod systems can be purchased that will make two cups of coffee at a time. <br />
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<strong>Variety - The Spice of Life</strong><br />
These machines are so popular now partly because they are so convenient and reliable but also because they allow you to buy different varieties, types and flavors of coffee pods. So, you can pick and choose which kind of coffee you will brew at any given time of day without having to keep a huge stock of different types of coffee in your kitchen cupboards.<br />
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This does prevent you from having lots of large unopened bags of coffee going stale in your cupboards because you simply cannot drink them that fast. These pods are also all individually sealed so you won’t lose freshness as you may do once you open a bag of standard ground coffee. <br />
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One complaint that some pod machine users have is that the pods themselves are not always as cost effective as they may be. As you might expect you may have to pay a premium for convenience here so this kind of pod system may well work out to be more expensive to both buy the initial machine and the pods than if you were just buying a small single serve maker and regular bags of coffee. <br />
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One key thing to think about as you ponder how to select a single serve coffee maker is compatibility. Some pods can be used in other kinds of standard coffee makers so it’s worth while checking on compatibility with your manufacturer. And, some coffee pod systems offer the ability to add a normal filter to the machine so you can use them as a standard single serve machine with your own ground coffee. <br />
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Flexibility is vital here as you don’t want to buy a coffee maker or a pod system that limits your choices. Some pod systems, for example, will allow you to use other types of pods in the machine as well as those that are made for the particular model. This option is great as you get much more flexibility in terms of coffee drinking choice. However, some systems will only work with their own pods which could see you limited on choice and which could also cost you more in the long run.<br />
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It doesn’t really matter which system you decide suits you best at the end of the day. You may even opt for both choices! One last thing to remember is that you can get great discounts and bargains on standard single serve coffee makers, pod systems and the pods themselves if you shop around. Many pod system users, for example, shop around on the Internet and then bulk buy pods when they find a bargain.<br />
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If you have decided to roast your own coffee then your first port of call will be to consider how to select a coffee roaster that is right for you. This decision is probably one of the hardest coffee-related choices you’ll have to make – there’s nothing worse than buying the wrong kind of roaster for your needs. <br />
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We’re going to be primarily looking at automated custom coffee bean roasters for the purposes of this article. But, it’s worth noting that you can roast your own coffee beans fresh at home without having to buy a roasting machine.<br />
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It is possible to roast beans in or on the stove, on a barbeque or fire or even, sometimes, in a popcorn popper. But, if you take your home roasting seriously and want some help with the process (the do it yourself approach can take a lot more time and effort) then a proper roasting machine may be your best option.<br />
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So, why do people roast their own beans at home? Well, it’s basically all about freshness and the quality of the roast you will ultimately get. If you buy green coffee beans – i.e. beans that are unroasted – you can simply roast them at home when you need to use them in batches so they’ll be ultra fresh. Green coffee beans are cheaper and last longer than ready roasted beans into the bargain. By the way, more information on bean roasting can be found here: <a href="http://www.coffee-n-beans.com/roasters.html">http://www.coffee-n-beans.com/roasters.html</a> <br />
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The ability to roast your own beans is a desirable must with many coffee aficionados – you can do away with stale coffee, get the level of roast you want when and where you want it and save yourself some money into the bargain!<br />
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In very simple terms there are two main types of machine to consider when you’re deciding how to select a coffee roaster which are Fluid Bed/Air Roasters and Drum Roasters. <br />
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<strong>Fluid Bed/Air Roasters</strong><br />
If you want to roast your own coffee beans at home then the first thing you should look at is getting hold of a standard fluid bed based roaster. These machines are small, can be compact and are primarily designed for small-medium home use. So, they will roast your beans for you fairly quickly and with minimal fuss – you don’t have to stand over them for example, as you would if you were home roasting on the stove top.<br />
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These kinds of roasters kind of work like popcorn makers in that they use hot air during the roast process. You can see how the roast is progressing in most cases so you can control it more effectively and you will sometimes also be given pre-set roasts to choose from in any case. If you’re a home roasting ‘newbie’ then this kind of machine may suit you best as you will get a feel for the whole process as you go along – you can always upgrade to a bigger and more complex roaster at a later date when you have more experience. These machines are also cheaper than other options and are relatively easy to use in the kitchen.<br />
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There are a couple of downsides with this kind of roaster, however. You will find that some models won’t roast that much coffee at once and will burn out if you use them too often. Some models also don’t have such great controls or pre-sets (some don’t have any) – so it may take a while for you to get used to using the machine if this is the case. <br />
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<strong>Drum Roaster</strong><br />
If the option of a fluid bed roaster doesn’t seem quite right to you when you’re thinking about how to select a coffee roaster then you could also look at drum roasting as an alternative. Drum roasters were once only seen in coffee shops and stores that roasted their own coffee beans but, nowadays, it’s real easy to buy machines for domestic use. <br />
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Drum roasting machines can basically roast more beans at once – in most cases – than fluid bed machines as they are bigger. Most will work on a convection or conduction method. With this kind of machine you place your beans in a drum, close it up, set it running and wait until the roast is done. <br />
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This is more of a pro machine – although they are designed for use at home – simply because they can be more complex to operate than fluid bed roasters. But, the majority of true coffee fans will prefer this method over time as it is held to produce better results in coffee taste terms.<br />
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The downsides with many drum roasters is that they don’t have a window so you can’t always look inside them as you can with most fluid bed roasters. So, you may have to rely on your sense of smell or hearing (as you listen to the coffee bean cracks!) to work out when your roast is perfectly done. This is one of the reasons why these machines may not suit ‘newbie’ roasters to start off with. <br />
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Some of these drum machines can also give off a lot of smoke so you may need to sort out adequate ventilation or even do your roasting outside if this is the case. And, as you might expect you’ll pay more for drum roasters than for fluid bed machines. At the end of the day you’ll need to think long and hard about how confident you are with the home roasting process – if you haven’t roasted at home before then you may be better off starting off with a fluid bed machine but if you feel more confident and need the extra functionality then a drum roaster may suit you better.<br />
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Whichever type of machine you choose to buy do remember that it’s absolutely vital to read some user reviews on the Internet before you buy a roaster as these will tell you stuff the manufacturer won’t. These reviews are written by people who have used these machines and they will give you a real good idea of the pros and cons of any machine from people that have used them regularly.<br />
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Some example tips to look out with for fluid bed roasters include: <br />
- How well do the programs (if there are any) work? <br />
- How easy is it to use and what kind of functions does it have? <br />
- How well made is the roaster? <br />
- How evenly does it roast? <br />
- How well can you see into the roasting chamber? <br />
- How noisy is the machine? <br />
- How easy is it to clean the machine/parts? <br />
- What happens to the chaff? <br />
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Some example tips to look out with for drum roasters include: <br />
- How well do the programs (if there are any) work? <br />
- How easy is it to use and what kind of functions does it have? <br />
- Does it produce a lot of smoke? <br />
- Can you see inside the drum from the outside? <br />
- Does the machine get too hot? <br />
- What happens to the chaff? <br />
- How easy is it to clean the machine/parts?<br />
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It is common knowledge that the caffeine content in coffee is not good for human health. In spite of that caffeine consumption the world over has increased in the past decade. If you are a regular hot coffee drinker and still not familiar with the health issues it poses, it might be worthwhile to read this article. <br />
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Tremendous amount of research time has been spent to study the effect of caffeine on people. Most of the findings have discovered that caffeine ( and coffee is one of the highest caffeine laced beverage, a lot higher than tea) has some kind of effect on almost all body parts. Serious health hazards such as rheumatoid arthritis and heart attacks have also been linked to coffee. The common ailments are increase in blood pressure ( can be fatal in individuals who already suffer from high blood pressure) and change in the level of stress hormones. Heart palpitations, jitters and weakening of the nervous system have also been associated with long time coffee drinkers.<br />
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One of the most harmful effects of hot coffee has been connected with pregnant women. Malformation or low birth weight is a chronic problem faced by doctors in cases where the mother has been a regular coffee drinker. Coffee is said to reduce the ability of the women’s body to absorb calcium and other important minerals which can have harmful results on the child. Lactating mothers are also warned against having coffee as that gets transferred to the child and the child may loose the ability to process caffeine in the long run.<br />
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The harmful effect of hot coffee is a debatable topic and people continue to take sides on this matter. It should be kept in mind that regular usage of coffee is definitely harmful for the health.<br />
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If you’re currently wondering how to select a coffee bean grinder to suit you and your kitchen then you probably already know that there are various options open to you. In simple terms most coffee grinders will be spilt into two camps – blade grinders and burr grinders. So how do you choose between the two? <br />
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First, it’s worth noting that you can buy both types of grinder as both electric and manual options if you wish. It’s becoming more popular for people to buy electric machines on the whole as there is a big added convenience here so, for the purposes of this guide, we’ll be focusing on electrical options rather than manual ones.<br />
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In simple terms the final decision you make when it comes to working out how to select a coffee bean grinder will, in most cases, come down to budget and to how seriously you think about coffee so this is worth bearing in mind as you read through this post.<br />
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So, let’s take a look some of the pros and cons of the two types of grinder. If you want, you can learn more about coffee gridners here: <a href="http://www.coffee-n-beans.com/grinders.html">http://www.coffee-n-beans.com/grinders.html</a><br />
<br /><strong>Blade Grinders</strong><br />
Blade grinders – as the name suggests – use a blade to chop up your coffee beans until they are ground. Most of these machines work on a simple principle – the longer the machine grinds, the finer the grind will be.<br />
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<strong>Pros</strong> <br />
- Generally cheaper than burr grinders.<br />
- Do an effective job of grinding your coffee beans.<br />
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<strong>Cons</strong> <br />
-Can’t give a completely consistent or even grind (this can have an adverse effect on the taste and quality of the coffee you drink).<br />
-The blades on some models may overheat – especially if they are left on longer for a finer grind – which can again alter the actual taste of your coffee.<br />
<br /><strong>Burr Grinders</strong><br />
A burr grinder – often also referred to in some circles as a mill – works on a different principle to a blade grinder. Here the beans are crushed between the machine’s moving wheel and its static surface. You decide on the level of grind by using pre-specified settings on the burr. Models vary between doser and doserless for coffee bean storage in the actual grinder.<br />
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<strong>Pros</strong> <br />
- A burr grinder will give you a consistently even grind with no problems.<br />
- These grinders and their grinding pres-sets are easy to use.<br />
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<strong>Cons</strong> <br />
- A burr grinder will generally cost you more than a blade grinder.<br />
- Some models clog easily and can be harder to clean.<br />
<br />So, when you’re deciding how to select a coffee grinder – as you can see – you need to consider how important the quality of your grind and the resulting taste of your coffee is to you as an individual to a certain extent. This is what will dictate whether you opt for a blade grinder or a burr grinder at the end of the day. <br />
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Most blade grinders users will simply like a regular cup of coffee that has been ground at home for optimum freshness. If you simply like grinding your own beans for basic coffee drinking use then there’s no real reason why you should waste money on a burr grinder when a blade grinder will suit your needs just as well.<br />
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It’s very important to remember here that a blade grinder may give a more uneven grind but it still does an effective job. But you may not get the best grind – and therefore the best tasting cup of coffee – from the beans you buy in this case. One good tip that many blade grinder fans give is to give the grinding machine a little gentle shake every now and then as this will help distribute the bits of cut beans more evenly which may help your grind’s consistency.<br />
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If, however, your cup of coffee is real important to you and you want consistent brewing results each and every time you grind your beans, then you will probably be better off looking at buying some sort of burr grinder to meet your needs. These grinders are adored by coffee aficionados simply because they treat your coffee beans and the grinding process consistently and will therefore bring out the best taste for every cup by making sure that each grind is even across every single coffee bean.<br />
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It’s real simple to source and buy each kind of grinder – both in stores or over the Internet. Major coffee maker manufacturers such as Braun, Capresso, Alpina, Mr. Coffee, DeLonghi, Russell Hobbs, KitchenAid, Krups and Solis will all have a grinder line of some sort to choose from.<br />
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You may find – if you shop around a little – that you may be able to afford to buy a more expensive grinder for your budget as there are often great bargains and discounts to be had all year round. For this reason it’s certainly worth while not rushing out and buying the first grinder you see but doing some price comparisons first to see what savings can be made.<br />
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It’s equally important to read reviews to find out how specific models have worked for other people in the past. The Internet is a great source for these kinds of user reviews so once you’ve identified a few models you can log on and see how these machines have worked for others in their homes rather than just relying on manufacturer’s ‘blurb’. This will give you a real useful idea of how well a model/models may actually work in your own home rather than having to wait to find out once you’ve purchased a grinder.<br />
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There are certain things to look out for in these kinds of user reviews. For example, you should be looking to discover if other grinder users have found that their grinder: <br />
- Gets clogged or blocked easily. <br />- Gets beans stuck in its mechanism. <br />- Overheats and leaves a bitter taste on the coffee. <br />- Is easy to clean and maintain. <br />- Gives a really even grind consistently. <br />- Is excessively noisy. <br />- Has a problem with static electricity. <br />- Gives you an easy way to pour out your ground coffee. <br />- Is well made and won’t fall apart after a couple of uses.<br />
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If you can get the right kinds of answers to these questions then the chances are you’ll find the kind of grinder – either burr or blade – that’s right for you.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9xJ1-sKG3MYRgjRdF2PSP-tmZ6vE9ogq936uj3XTzDE8iDmV1CDhx6tkxmH-arZ8wt3fYLnUPrIh37YKdxdBUTnjO84gCVGn2bikBSAQtpun_Zebo0ahWt3Ag243vwivM8F4He_qCO5Q/s1600/Cappuccino+maker.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9xJ1-sKG3MYRgjRdF2PSP-tmZ6vE9ogq936uj3XTzDE8iDmV1CDhx6tkxmH-arZ8wt3fYLnUPrIh37YKdxdBUTnjO84gCVGn2bikBSAQtpun_Zebo0ahWt3Ag243vwivM8F4He_qCO5Q/s320/Cappuccino+maker.png" width="240" /></a></div>
Have you seen the choices in coffee makers today? Have you seen what they can do? I don't think it will be long before they are able to bring you your cup of coffee in bed!<br />
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There are the very popular filter machines, French press and stovetop espresso coffee makers. There are glass carafe coffee makers, thermal carafe coffee makers, some industrial sizes with two pots that brew at the same time. If you are into espresso did you know that there are three different types of espresso makers to choose from? <br />
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Steam, pump or piston. How about the coffee maker that makes you one individual cup of coffee?<br />
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Then, to complicate it even more there is the decision of what you want the coffee maker to do other than brew coffee!!! <br />
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Do you want your coffee maker to have a pause so that you can pull the pot out for your first cup before it is finished brewing? <br />
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Or, do you want your coffee maker to have the coffee ready for you when you get up? <br />
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Do you want to be able to grind your own beans? <br />
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If yes, do you want a separate coffee bean grinder or do you want one that is built right into the coffee maker? <br />
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If you say yes, do you want your coffee maker to figure out just the right amount of ground coffee for the amount of water you choose? <br />
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How about the strength of coffee? <br />
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There are machines that let you choose how strong they brew your coffee. Some have built in water filters. Some have auto turn offs. Some allow you to use a permanent filter rather than deal with messy paper filters.<br />
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If you head isn't spinning enough now comes the toughest decision of all... what type of coffee do you want? <br />
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Do you prefer a light roast or a medium roast or a dark roast? <br />
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How about an Italian or Espresso roast - the heaviest of all roasts. Have you thought about roasting your own beans? <br />
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There are many sources of green beans available and home coffee roasters can easily be purchased and you can be well on your way to not only brewing your coffee, but roasting your beans.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMTeEBI4ezwSgfTMT7n4UpnopafQtslgaps88eHGYjPBCusdWqbPi146-LGCrtpfyYWBofd7e_N7y5akU1bcW6sKouw2MQiC4UHVHbo0AWhBmuN6K4-6p-QsDvp8HTJKZj_U_RC6_Ge5g/s1600/CAPPUCCINO+VIVACE.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMTeEBI4ezwSgfTMT7n4UpnopafQtslgaps88eHGYjPBCusdWqbPi146-LGCrtpfyYWBofd7e_N7y5akU1bcW6sKouw2MQiC4UHVHbo0AWhBmuN6K4-6p-QsDvp8HTJKZj_U_RC6_Ge5g/s320/CAPPUCCINO+VIVACE.png" width="320" /></a></div>
Steamed milk with delicious froth is essential to a good cup of cafe latte or cappucino. Find out the basics of how to make a perfect cup of steamed milk.<br />
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Few coffee drinkers fully appreciate the fact that frothed milk is what makes a cappuccino or latte. Without the milk and foam, it is just plain espresso. Like anything worth learning, it takes a bit of practice, even the most capable baristas have a hard time at first. Let us take a look at the frothing process.<br />
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Most experts agree that it is best to begin with a stainless steel pitcher, some cold milk and an espresso machine with a steaming wand. Past that, there are as many differing ideas about the frothing process as there are blends of espresso.<br />
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Stainless steel is preferred for its easy maneuverability, but any non-plastic container will work as long as it will not melt or crack with heat. The kind of milk you start with depends on the texture of foam you want to achieve. The higher the fat content, the more dense and more difficult to froth the milk with be. Skim milk produces light, airy foam, and is probably the easiest for beginners to practice with.<br />
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To determine how much milk is needed, fill the cups you plan to drink from with half the milk the drink requires. For example, a cappuccino is half espresso and half steamed milk, so you would fill the cup one-fourth full will cold milk because steaming will cause the milk to roughly double in volume. Pour the milk in the pitcher.<br />
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It is important that the tip of the steam wand is consistently held just below the surface of the milk. If it is too held too deep, the milk with scorch or boil before it froths. If it is not deep enough, it will blow the milk out of the pitcher and make a mess. Keep the palm of your free hand flush with the bottom of the pitcher. This will help you monitor the temperature of the milk without interrupting the process.<br />
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Slide the pitcher away from the machine as to keep the tip of the wand just under the surface as the milk expands. At this point, if the milk is about the same temperature as the palm of you hand, plunge the wand deeper into the milk to warm it up. If the pitcher feels too hot, turn off the steam and tap the pitcher against the work surface. This lets large bubbles to escape and helps cool the milk. It is important to never let the milk boil.<br />
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Using a long-handled spoon to carefully hold the froth back, add the milk to the drink. Be careful to pour in one continuous stream. A spoon may be used to add the desired amount of froth on top of the drink, but if the frothing is done well, the result is a fine micro foam that can be poured directly from the pitcher. Cinnamon, nutmeg or grated chocolate is a nice addition to any drink.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLV1Fh-jWNy4w-FKgRIhbaTKJ9Hc7muvcLqB68QWTn8T1DxIPHBDM9D2bKCV0OH2Ydje7HJRer0KAHMeJ9TlieusFdVY9WUg0QH89IMHbBn2QzDvO6SBYmJGWXqk5Jq00aygaaR19Biw8/s1600/Coffee+into+Ceramic+mug.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLV1Fh-jWNy4w-FKgRIhbaTKJ9Hc7muvcLqB68QWTn8T1DxIPHBDM9D2bKCV0OH2Ydje7HJRer0KAHMeJ9TlieusFdVY9WUg0QH89IMHbBn2QzDvO6SBYmJGWXqk5Jq00aygaaR19Biw8/s320/Coffee+into+Ceramic+mug.png" width="213" /></a></div>
It is common knowledge that the caffeine content in coffee is not good for human health. In spite of that caffeine consumption the world over has increased in the past decade. If you are a regular hot coffee drinker and still not familiar with the health issues it poses, it might be worthwhile to read this post.<br />
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Tremendous amount of research time has been spent to study the effect of caffeine on people. Most of the findings have discovered that caffeine ( and coffee is one of the highest caffeine laced beverage, a lot higher than tea) has some kind of effect on almost all body parts. Serious health hazards such as rheumatoid arthritis and heart attacks have also been linked to coffee. <br />
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The common ailments are increase in blood pressure ( can be fatal in individuals who already suffer from high blood pressure) and change in the level of stress hormones. Heart palpitations, jitters and weakening of the nervous system have also been associated with long time coffee drinkers. <br />
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One of the most harmful effects of hot coffee has been connected with pregnant women. Malformation or low birth weight is a chronic problem faced by doctors in cases where the mother has been a regular coffee drinker. <br />
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Coffee is said to reduce the ability of the women’s body to absorb calcium and other important minerals which can have harmful results on the child. Lactating mothers are also warned against having coffee as that gets transferred to the child and the child may loose the ability to process caffeine in the long run.<br />
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The harmful effect of hot coffee is a debatable topic and people continue to take sides on this matter. It should be kept in mind that regular usage of coffee is definitely harmful for the health.<br />
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Photo <strong>By </strong><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dinnerseries/" id="yui_3_5_1_3_1354297414811_1015"><strong>Dinner Series</strong></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Hr7JNYE02iF0lOYfN7y6bswMfyVEP3km18uzr8H5nTG2NHWAvM2Y0hBR26lEX8hP2foQOuGNwWQmo7OHxc68GdDpxVlt4YXG0zz9fLQUNOEt7kIYlNxCgPxRDSkRqeeRuCgJlRs0MzU/s1600/Coffee+and+Tea+mugs.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Hr7JNYE02iF0lOYfN7y6bswMfyVEP3km18uzr8H5nTG2NHWAvM2Y0hBR26lEX8hP2foQOuGNwWQmo7OHxc68GdDpxVlt4YXG0zz9fLQUNOEt7kIYlNxCgPxRDSkRqeeRuCgJlRs0MzU/s320/Coffee+and+Tea+mugs.png" width="320" /></a></div>
Everyone has their favorite and you are no exception when it comes to your favorite coffee mug. It is special and you like the feel of it in your hands and are really disappointed if someone else in the family is already using it for their beverage. <br />
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What makes a good coffee mug? <br />
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Who knows? <br />
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Each person has their own special likes and dislikes; however, there are literally thousands of different ones to choose from.<br />
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There are coffee mugs in every shape and size imaginable. They are now insulated and can be covered, are stackable, ceramic, stainless steel, travel sizes and the majority are dishwasher safe. <br />
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They can be small and hold about 6 ounces or very large holding over 20 ounces. There is no unique type, style, color or size to them, so, what makes these so special to the user?<br />
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Actually, there is nothing more comforting that holding a steaming hot mug of coffee. Sitting back and smelling the fresh scents from the newly brewed coffee that you just poured is delightful and it can sooth you after a long day or refresh you so that you can move on and accomplish more work.<br />
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Have you noticed that more and more companies are giving away personalized mugs to their customers? <br />
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What better way to advertise your products and services than by giving away an item that everyone uses every day. These products can be purchased from numerous companies that will allow the organization to select a color and a special logo-and the more they purchase the lower the cost for each.<br />
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Many companies order thousands when using them as a promotional gift.<br />
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There are even organizations that will give each employee their very own as an award or bonus—a way of saying thank you for the hard work everyone has accomplished over the past year. This is just a little token of appreciation that goes a long way with employees and, they can also be used as promotional advertising.<br />
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People are even decorating with coffee mugs. They have shelves in their homes where they proudly display antique ones that have been handed down for generations or that they have collected over the years. There are special cup hangers that you can attach to a wall so that you hang it by the handle and set up a pattern to display them in such a way as to enhance their beauty. <br />
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This is an inexpensive way to decorate and to also show your collection. They could even be souvenirs of places the family has visited and vacation in over the years. It can be a constant inexpensive little memory of a special time that is in their home.<br />
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No matter what your preference in coffee mugs, to use or to display them, each person has their own special one-and heaven forbid that it ever gets broken. Some people when they have a favorite go back and get another one, exactly like the first, just in case. If you do not have a spare, you can always get another, but nothing will ever replace the look and feel of your favorite coffee mug.<br />
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Photo <strong>By </strong><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/donabelandewen/" id="yui_3_5_1_3_1354296501556_991"><strong>ewen and donabel</strong></a><br />
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<br />There are almost as many ways to skin a cat (Kat?), but here are a couple of methods for making this delicious chocolate + coffee drink. Watch Gail whip up two mochas using 2 different techniques.<br />
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I made these and they were good!!!<br />
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Thanks Gail for the recipes.<br />
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CHECK OUT THE VIDEO BELOW FOR INFORMATION<br />
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Hello my friend. I'm posting this message to help you to protect your home based business. <br />
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<strong>This is not info on coffee but a very important matter to us US home business owners.</strong><br /><strong></strong><br />
<strong><a name='more'></a>Tomorrow is July 9, 2012! It's concederd to be the Internet DoomsDay!</strong><br /><br />
Why is because a lot of people are not aware that their computer has been infected by malware.<br />
In other words "<strong><span style="color: red;">Cyber Theives</span></strong>" put a virus on your computer!<br />
You need to go to this <a href="http://dns-ok.us/" target="_blank">US government site</a> and check your computer to see if it has malware infection on it. By checking your computer now will let you be able to fix it and not loose any of your business tomorrow. <br />
I checked my computer and it is fine. Hopefully yours is too. <br />
This is just a precaution that I think you should do to keep you ahead on everything. <br />
Hope you see this in time to check your computer.<br />
This is the direct link: <a href="http://dns-ok.us/">http://dns-ok.us/</a><br />
There is another link on the site to help you to remove the malware if your computer is infected.<br />
Now, to learn more of why this is happening you can check out <a href="http://www.technolog.msnbc.msn.com/technology/technolog/what-know-july-9-internet-doomsday-arrives-869336" target="_blank">msnbc.com Tech</a><br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06;">We'll get back to talking about coffee soon.</span> <br />
In the mean time, have a cup and share this with your freinds and family.<br />
Don't foreget if you haven't checked out your computer to do so before midnight.<br />
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<div style="color: #999999; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; margin-top: 5px; text-align: center; width: 420px;">
Visit msnbc.com for <a href="http://www.msnbc.msn.com/" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(153, 153, 153) !important; border-bottom-style: dotted !important; border-bottom-width: 1px !important; color: rgb(87, 153, 219) !important; font-weight: normal !important; height: 13px; text-decoration: none !important;">breaking news</a>, <a href="http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3032507" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(153, 153, 153) !important; border-bottom-style: dotted !important; border-bottom-width: 1px !important; color: rgb(87, 153, 219) !important; font-weight: normal !important; height: 13px; text-decoration: none !important;">world news</a>, and <a href="http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3032072" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(153, 153, 153) !important; border-bottom-style: dotted !important; border-bottom-width: 1px !important; color: rgb(87, 153, 219) !important; font-weight: normal !important; height: 13px; text-decoration: none !important;">news about the economy</a></div>
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In the first part of the 20th century the interior was settled by British and European farmers who became rich by farming coffee on the backs of the Kenyan workers. By the 1930's the farmers powers had become very strong. Even with over 1 million Kikuyu tribe members calling it home they had now real land claims according to the Europeans. To protect their interest the wealthy Europeans banned them from growing coffee, introduced a hut tax and gave them less and less for their labor.<br />
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<a name='more'></a>The Kikuyu were forced to leave their land and go to the cities in order to survive. This legal slavery of the population continued until the century until the British relinquished control in 1960. Despite all this bloodshed and slavery Kenya coffee has flourished and is among one of the finest cups in the world.<br />
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All Kenya coffee grown is Arabica coffee grown on the rich volcanic soil that is found in the highlands of the country. Today around 250,000 Kenyans are employed in the production of coffee. <br />
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Most is produced by small land holders that are members of cooperatives that process their own coffee. Still, even with this Kenya coffee's specialty status Kenya coffee farmers still remain among the poorest in the world. In 2001 a farmer producing 1,007 kg crop would only earn £20.14 for his labor, that same coffee is available at specialty stores for $10 + per pound.<br />
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Recently Kenya farmers have introduced the Ruiru 11 hybrid plant and it is causing concern amongst true Kenya coffee lovers. This is because it may lack the traditional Kenya coffee attributes that coffee aficionados love. The Kenya Coffee Board is trying to promote Ruiru 11 as an alternative to the farmers but their efforts are overshadowed by the rumors that it tastes like a low grade coffee from a different country. History will have to be the judge to see who is correct.<br />
Kenya coffee has a bright acidity and a wonderful sweetness with a dry winy aftertaste. A really good Kenya coffee will also have a black-current flavor and aroma. Some of the worlds finest coffees come from Kenya and as a single origin coffee it wins praise at the cupping table. Kenya has this level of quality through a government-run system that offers rewards to farmers for producing better quality coffee. This policy has lead to steady improvements and consistent improvements in the cups quality. Each lot of Kenya coffee, if it is from a large farm or a small co-op has to undergo rigorous testing for quality by the Coffee Board of Kenya.<br />
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</script>Bronzihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10499185047657482216noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4513284141135201305.post-61537876433578248862012-07-04T15:09:00.001-04:002012-07-29T05:47:14.471-04:00Fourth of July<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBhhdbghq_AKzwOt4zYE-DcFPLQ34Nuu03l5brB5HIAFI2OR3Ho0j463_QQoIeS7yXFvmAnKrwlJHPlJ8MpCzKr16O6bOazcIbOcubR8XuAGfVxGvC0kdvPC-J9N2QYyTkXJJwKuG7zwo/s1600/CDC3DDC57D6F43FF8AED0A2415F5E98F.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBhhdbghq_AKzwOt4zYE-DcFPLQ34Nuu03l5brB5HIAFI2OR3Ho0j463_QQoIeS7yXFvmAnKrwlJHPlJ8MpCzKr16O6bOazcIbOcubR8XuAGfVxGvC0kdvPC-J9N2QYyTkXJJwKuG7zwo/s320/CDC3DDC57D6F43FF8AED0A2415F5E98F.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Today we celebrate the 236th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in a
nation that is as divided now as it was then on just about every level. By
revisiting our history helps to remind us how far we've come; just remember that
236 years ago slavery was the law of the land with all or just about all of the
so-called founding fathers owning human beings as chattel. I guess you could say
that this speaks to the character of these men.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>The idea of Independence
Day, commonly known as the Fourth of July and a national holiday, which America
commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776,
declaring independence from England or Great Britain. As was suggested at the
time, Independence Day is commonly associated with fireworks, parades,
barbecues, carnivals, fairs, picnics, concerts, family gatherings, political
speeches and ceremonies. Oh, and a lot of flag waving!<br />
<br />
It was during the
Revolution, the legal separation of the Thirteen Colonies from Great Britain on
July 2, 1776, when the Second Continental Congress voted to approve a resolution
of independence declaring the United States independent from Great Britain.
Thomas Jefferson the principal author of the document that congress debated and
revised the wording and finally approving it on July 4.<br />
<br />
Historians have
long disputed whether Congress actually signed the Declaration of Independence
on July 4, even though Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, and Benjamin Franklin all
later wrote that they had signed it on that day. Most historians have concluded
that the Declaration was signed nearly a month after its adoption, on August 2,
1776, and not on July 4 as is commonly believed.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8KkBee9_HbbbKO7pbF26i9hyo1_ReNVsnk2b5leokHY8bOdUjxQuZCo7nuG0M6cQoeneRp32DTRI_XEDPxNdr9I_4TLEfp1kKCUgxEE1oSv-T_YMLyKhviAIN4iLmTLhJIJu3nWzssPY/s1600/4th+of+july.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8KkBee9_HbbbKO7pbF26i9hyo1_ReNVsnk2b5leokHY8bOdUjxQuZCo7nuG0M6cQoeneRp32DTRI_XEDPxNdr9I_4TLEfp1kKCUgxEE1oSv-T_YMLyKhviAIN4iLmTLhJIJu3nWzssPY/s1600/4th+of+july.png" /></a></div>
As we all know these famous words taken from the document: We hold these truths
to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by
their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life,
Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. This makes one wonder what men they were
talking about because by owning men they surely did not consider Africa American
people as men. Or was it ever supposed to relate to blacks or women. NOT!!! So
who was left? I think we know!<br />
<br />
Although this is a glorious day, there
actually was not anything close to independence for most of the populous. Now, I
like a good party as much as anyone but this was not a party designed for anyone
of color. In fact, I am positive that my ancestors who made that long captive
journey in the belly of the beast across the Atlantic as a day of
independence.<br />
<br />
It is worth mentioning that not all the colonialists were
keen on this whole independence thing either and by some accounts about a
half-million were Loyalists to the British crown, and hung on to their royal
connections. Now the author’s of His-Story, which is that written by the
victory, left out much of what really happened.<br />
<br />
I will close with what is
a remarkable coincidence, both John Adams and Thomas Jefferson, the only signers
of the Declaration of Independence later to serve as Presidents, died on the
same day: July 4, 1826, which was the 50th anniversary of the Declaration. Just
a little piece of history another so-called Founding Father, who became a
President James Monroe, died on July 4, 1831, thus becoming the third president
in a row who died on this memorable day.<br />
<br />
Enjoy the party’s and celebrate
the freedoms we have left. <br />
<br />
<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!!!</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
By my friend <a href="http://justaseason.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">John T. Wills</a><br />
<br />
<br />
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