The heavenly nectar that is coffee...

[Xander]

Now I've read things about how you should prepare the cup for coffee and the temperature of the water etc etc but one thing no one seems set on is milk first or second?

Now I mainly speak of the much maligned instant coffee here but the same works for "real" coffee too. Many seem unaware of the phenomena related to actually mixing coffee so I thought that this'd be a good place to go through some of it and see what you guys think.

Now firstly I've always used hot water. I mean just off the boil water. WE have a lot of tea drinkers around our house (well it is England after all) and I use the water pretty much straight after having poured theirs (unless I'm using the coffee machine thingy which uses water at some undefined temperature which I'm not going to measure unless it's vital). I've seen some people use it whilst it's boiling!! This is blasphemy and can often ruin a good cuppa.

Personally I put the milk in last. Some oddballs like to put it in first and this is where the main discrepancy lies because it seems that most people don't even know it changes the taste unless they try it "upside-down". Put milk in first and often you'll get a more milky taste to it, possibly because I find it more difficult to judge and presume that other's find it similarly difficult.

Another problem I find with other's making coffee is they treat it like tea. One or two swishes round with a spoon and they think that it's stirred. This ruins the reputation of instant coffee and can mess up a "real" cup of coffee somewhat too. Basically the more you stir instant coffee, the smoother cuppa you'll get.

So what's your little niggles and which way around do you do the milk?
Are there any authorities?

Oh and yes I totally expect a downpour of "real" coffee drinkers spitting etc but to them I say this, it take me about 30 seconds to make one cup. No filters, no mess, no having to make a pot for one cup. It's called convenience.

(Pre emptive strikes are fun :) )

[JivinJeffJones]

The milk goes in first, you bloody barbarian. :thelook:

Putting the water in first is a great way to scald your coffee and ruin the flavour. If you like scalded coffee then put the water in first. And then bugger off and eat furniture or whatever it is you scalded-coffee aficionados do when you aren't ruining coffee.

[Xander]

You use water hot enough to scold coffee????

What are you using? A fricking steam jet from a turbine?

[prplchknz]

I always do coffee in a stove top maker and I like it because it makes just the perfect amount for myself and its strong without being to bitter. I put the cream bottom of the cup add coffee, drink. Of course when I go to Caribou (like Starbucks, but I like it better) I have to put the cream in last as they give you the coffee black then you add sugar or cream.

[INTJMom]

1 empty coffee mug
add 1/4 cup French Vanilla Coffee Mate liquid
add 3/4 cup water
microwave on high for 77 seconds
add one teaspoon instant coffee
sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top
enjoy :cheers:

[nottaprettygal]

Instant coffee tastes horrible!

My morning coffee ritual:

Curse self for not remembering to set timer the night before
Grind beans of lightly flavored coffee
Put in coffee maker and get that going
Put sugar and cream in two cups
Wait for coffee to finish
Pour coffee for me and my live-in lover

Using really cold milk/cream makes the coffee cooler, and I don't like that. Hence, I set it out for a bit.

[targo]

mmmmmm coffee...............

NEVER instant.... no no no never instant.

Set up coffee maker night before, so it's ready for husband when he awake in the morning. Use Columbian Beans and grind then add to basket with cold water.

in morning take large 16oz coffee mug add 4tbsp international french vanilla and then add coffee, let cool sightly and enjoy.... mmmmm yes enjoy sweet wonderful coffee.

I don't like milk in my coffee only cream. If using cream and sugar, add sugar, then coffee then cream.

[Haight]

Pour coffee for me and my live-in lover*feels like a piece of meat. And is okay with that.*


EDIT: I like coffee.

[EffEmDoubleyou]

I have never heard of putting the milk in first. Can someone who does this explain what the advantage is?

[wildcat]

Now I've read things about how you should prepare the cup for coffee and the temperature of the water etc etc but one thing no one seems set on is milk first or second?

Now I mainly speak of the much maligned instant coffee here but the same works for "real" coffee too. Many seem unaware of the phenomena related to actually mixing coffee so I thought that this'd be a good place to go through some of it and see what you guys think.

Now firstly I've always used hot water. I mean just off the boil water. WE have a lot of tea drinkers around our house (well it is England after all) and I use the water pretty much straight after having poured theirs (unless I'm using the coffee machine thingy which uses water at some undefined temperature which I'm not going to measure unless it's vital). I've seen some people use it whilst it's boiling!! This is blasphemy and can often ruin a good cuppa.

Personally I put the milk in last. Some oddballs like to put it in first and this is where the main discrepancy lies because it seems that most people don't even know it changes the taste unless they try it "upside-down". Put milk in first and often you'll get a more milky taste to it, possibly because I find it more difficult to judge and presume that other's find it similarly difficult.

Another problem I find with other's making coffee is they treat it like tea. One or two swishes round with a spoon and they think that it's stirred. This ruins the reputation of instant coffee and can mess up a "real" cup of coffee somewhat too. Basically the more you stir instant coffee, the smoother cuppa you'll get.

So what's your little niggles and which way around do you do the milk?
Are there any authorities?

Oh and yes I totally expect a downpour of "real" coffee drinkers spitting etc but to them I say this, it take me about 30 seconds to make one cup. No filters, no mess, no having to make a pot for one cup. It's called convenience.

(Pre emptive strikes are fun :) )
First you have the water running. To have the water running you have to get up from your chair. Okay. Now get up. Then you have to walk to the kitchen. Wait. OK. I forgot to say that when you enter the kitchen you first have to switch the light on because you cannot see in the dark unless you are a cat.

Is the water running? Can you hear it?
Then you do not put water in the kettle. No no, you cannot be hasty. First you have to taste the water. If the water has been running an adequate time it is potable. No no, not the coffee. The water. The water is potable as water. All right.

Now the water in the kettle and the kettle on the stove. No no, you have no time to go back to your computing machine.
You have to because there is Raincrow007? No no! Get back to the kitchen! I do not care if it was the Pope.
Now you have to clean the filter and the jar. Hot water and soap. Yes, soap.
The water is boiling. OK. Balance the filter on the top of the jar and put the cappucino in there. Pour the water through the filter. When the water is in the jar open the fridge and get out the Greek gala. Heat the milk now on the stove.
Not too hot hot. Only hot.
Now you pour the milk. No no, not through the filter.

It is ready.

Before you drink it, brush your teeth. This is God's Nektar.

[Xander]

Okay well it seems I'm in a minority with the whole milk thing, though I'd suggest that if you use hot but not boiling water and then add milk it tastes a whole lot better.

As for instant versus "real", "real" coffee is okay but to me it's like chocolate cake. Chocolate cake is nice every once in a while but to have it regularly would just turn my stomach.

If I want a treat I have a pack of plain crisps (chips to the americans), call me odd but I prefer the savoury snacks to bar of chocolate or some sweets (candy to you jonnys :tongue10:).

Oh and don't judge instant on that Red Mountain rubbish nor Nescafe standard. That would be like judging real coffee when you scald the coffee and use the nastiest budget crap you can find. Try something with a little more flavour (personally I like the Nescafe Alta Rican but I like that kind of coffee).

Don't get me wrong I like the whole "real" stuff but when it comes to a workhorse kind of coffee I'll pick instant every time.

Now do you warm your mug first or do you leave it icy cold?

[Xander]

First you have the water running. To have the water running you have to get up from your chair. Okay. Now get up. Then you have to walk to the kitchen. Wait. OK. I forgot to say that when you enter the kitchen you first have to switch the light on because you cannot see in the dark unless you are a cat.

Is the water running? Can you hear it?
Then you do not put water in the kettle. No no, you cannot be hasty. First you have to taste the water. If the water has been running an adequate time it is potable. No no, not the coffee. The water. The water is potable as water. All right.

Now the water in the kettle and the kettle on the stove. No no, you have no time to go back to your computing machine.
You have to because there is Raincrow007? No no! Get back to the kitchen! I do not care if it was the Pope.
Now you have to clean the filter and the jar. Hot water and soap. Yes, soap.
The water is boiling. OK. Balance the filter on the top of the jar and put the cappucino in there. Pour the water through the filter. When the water is in the jar open the fridge and get out the Greek gala. Heat the milk now on the stove.
Not too hot hot. Only hot.
Now you pour the milk. No no, not through the filter.

It is ready.

Before you drink it, brush your teeth. This is God's Nektar.
You left RC007 waiting? And I thought you were a gentleman!

Certainly a brave man :D

Can't say I agree with the cappuccino, but each to their own. I'd get fed up very quickly with the whole heating milk AND water!!

Oh and as a side note, should those who like white coffee run out of milk, try a dash of cold tap water and stir well. It seems to take the edge off the coffee somewhat.

[Vortex]

I usually use instant, too. I'm usually way too lazy to make my coffee properly, but once in a while I will preheat my cup, warm and foam my milk, make proper coffee, etc. etc. Mostly I drink tea. I've got several drawers worth of tea to consume because I'm such a hoarder.

[Jen]

Instant coffee sucks in the US. Nescafe Gold in England is the only instant I will drink. I put the kettle on while boiling half a cup of milk until it's frothy. Add desired amount of sugar to your cup and mix with a heaping spoonful of Nescafe. Add half a cup of water, frothy milk and drink up. :)

Now for the real deal. My favorite coffee is Sumatra by Starbucks. I add my sugar to my mug, boil the milk until frothy, add a little more than half a cup of coffee, then add the milk/stir and drink :) If I'm in a hurry I just add cold milk after the sugar and coffee, although it's not as enjoyable.

I really don't see a better way other than making espresso in a machine which I find messy and time consuming.

[Xander]

All that milk!!!!

Noooooo!!!!!!!

Talk about spoiling the sheer hit of the coffee! Less milk not more!

:D

(You can see why I get a bad reputation no? :) )

[Jen]

All that milk!!!!

Noooooo!!!!!!!

Talk about spoiling the sheer hit of the coffee! Less milk not more!

:D

(You can see why I get a bad reputation no? :) )


You haven't tried my coffee. It's very strong and doesn't have all that much milk in it and the half a cup of milk is for two servings. It's perfect really :)

[Xander]

You haven't tried my coffee. It's very strong and doesn't have all that much milk in it and the half a cup of milk is for two servings. It's perfect really :)
The perfect consistency coffee IMHO is Parisian. That should give you an idea of how I drink the stuff.

I keep getting suckered into ordering a double espresso thinking in my caffeine deprived state that some fantastic mug full of espresso will arrive only to find a pipette of half decent strength coffee. I found out that the ubiquitous Americano is supposed to be a full mug of espresso like strength only to find out it's espresso but watered down to fill the mug up!

Oh the trials I have with drinking coffee whilst out. I usually revert to Coke or Red Bull. Least if it's canned they can't water it down or mess it up. Hell even Starbucks seems to be a cup full of aroma and nothing else!

[Jen]

The perfect consistency coffee IMHO is Parisian. That should give you an idea of how I drink the stuff.

I keep getting suckered into ordering a double espresso thinking in my caffeine deprived state that some fantastic mug full of espresso will arrive only to find a pipette of half decent strength coffee. I found out that the ubiquitous Americano is supposed to be a full mug of espresso like strength only to find out it's espresso but watered down to fill the mug up!

Oh the trials I have with drinking coffee whilst out. I usually revert to Coke or Red Bull. Least if it's canned they can't water it down or mess it up. Hell even Starbucks seems to be a cup full of aroma and nothing else!

I love Breve's. There is a drive in coffee place near out house that makes it pretty well. Breve: Short for Espresso Breve. Espresso with half-n-half.

My Mother In Law is English and when she comes over for a visit she adds water to my coffee. I always tease her about it because she is too polite (or stubborn) to admit that it's too strong for her.

What brand of instant coffee do you prefer?

[INTJMom]

I only have one cup of coffee a day since it stains my teeth yellow,
and did you know caffeine depletes your calcium?

[Xander]

I love Breve's. There is a drive in coffee place near out house that makes it pretty well. Breve: Short for Espresso Breve. Espresso with half-n-half.
Don't spose you can mail me one?

To be honest I've not yet found any place or person who makes coffee that I like as much as my own but I guess that's kinda predictable.

[Jen]

I only have one cup of coffee a day since it stains my teeth yellow,
and did you know caffeine depletes your calcium?

Ever since I quit smoking this past May I whiten my teeth twice a week and take Viactiv once a day. I also drink one cup a day in the morning.

PS Starbucks in the UK isn't nearly as good as in the US according to my sources ;)

[Xander]

I only have one cup of coffee a day since it stains my teeth yellow,
and did you know caffeine depletes your calcium?
Really?
Is this one of those old wives tales (or the new one's with scientists substituted for wives)? Sounds odd. Sounds like one of those thing the 'People's army against the usage of caffeine products' would say. :)

[Jen]

Really?
Is this one of those old wives tales (or the new one's with scientists substituted for wives)? Sounds odd. Sounds like one of those thing the 'People's army against the usage of caffeine products' would say. :)


Right and cell phones can cause brain tumors. My Mother is always giving me secondhand advice on how to combat certain ailments. I can't keep up so I just tell myself to do things in moderation and I will hopefully live a long and healthy life, unless I get hit by a bus. :huh:

[Xander]

Right and cell phones can cause brain tumors. My Mother is always giving me secondhand advice on how to combat certain ailments. I can't keep up so I just tell myself to do things in moderation and I will hopefully live a long and healthy life, unless I get hit by a bus. :huh:
Wouldn't living a long life kinda preclude living a healthy life?
I mean if you live to be 150 then some things probably aren't going to work right and isn't that the defining point of healthy? :)

Oh and I almost never listen to advice like that unless I understand how it does it. Then I measure my want for the vice versus the not wanting the consequence.

So far I've done brilliantly. I still smoke and can't stop biting my finger nails :D

Oh well....

[Jen]

Wouldn't living a long life kinda preclude living a healthy life?
I mean if you live to be 150 then some things probably aren't going to work right and isn't that the defining point of healthy? :)

Oh and I almost never listen to advice like that unless I understand how it does it. Then I measure my want for the vice versus the not wanting the consequence.

So far I've done brilliantly. I still smoke and can't stop biting my finger nails :D

Oh well....

I'd like to live long enough to see my children grow up to be happy well adjusted people and enjoy my grandchildren. :) I think I'd be happy living until my early 80's. The moon on a golden stick would be nice as well. :D

I don't know how old you are, but when I turned 38 this year I decided that I needed to lead a healthier life. I wasn't getting any younger and cancer does run in my family.

[Xander]

I'd like to live long enough to see my children grow up to be happy well adjusted people and enjoy my grandchildren. :) I think I'd be happy living until my early 80's. The moon on a golden stick would be nice as well. :D

I don't know how old you are, but when I turned 38 this year I decided that I needed to lead a healthier life. I wasn't getting any younger and cancer does run in my family.
Only thirty (says he pointing and laughing at the wrinkly) :)

Oh and the only scions I intend to have are pups (when I can figure out how to get out of this working malarky and actually get a dog that is).

Still can you think what you'd drink if you had to give up coffee to be healthy? I mean I like the green & black tea I drink on occasions but as a permanent substitute it'd suck!

[JivinJeffJones]

I have never heard of putting the milk in first. Can someone who does this explain what the advantage is?

It makes the coffee taste better. Even if it does make it more difficult to dissolve the coffee granules. When using Coffee Mate instead of milk I will put some cold water in with the coffee/coffee mate first (doesn't need much), stir it around, add the hot water, stir again, then add cold water to achieve desired temperature.

Tip: when using soy milk instead of milk, you MUST put the milk in first or let the boiled water cool off for ~5mins otherwise the soy milk cooks or something and clots in a very unappetizing way.

[Haight]

I have never heard of putting the milk in first. Can someone who does this explain what the advantage is?

Using really cold milk/cream makes the coffee cooler, and I don't like that. Hence, I set it out for a bit.;)

[INTJMom]

Really?
Is this one of those old wives tales (or the new one's with scientists substituted for wives)? Sounds odd. Sounds like one of those thing the 'People's army against the usage of caffeine products' would say. :)"Reduce consumption of caffeine (it depletes calcium and magnesium), simple or refined sugars (also depletes calcium and lowers bone density)..."
Osteoporosis (http://womensvibranthealth.libraryonhealth.com/read.php?id=58cab4ed662f79f49940b7b3e&chapter=17)

"A harmful side-effect of caffeine consumption is a decrease in the amount of calcium in the body. According to the American Dietetic Association, teens who drink coffee are probably drinking smaller amounts of milk. Also, caffeine depletes the body's already stored calcium."
Paly Voice: Caffeine studies show harmful effects of teen coffee culture (http://voice.paly.net/view_story.php?id=3551)


For INTPs
"The caffeine-induced [Ca2+]i transient is an index of the Ca2+ content in the SR because caffeine depletes the SR of Ca2+ (18, 19, 31, 35)."
Calcium homeostasis in rat cardiomyocytes during chronic hypoxia: a time course study -- Pei et al. 285 (6): C1420 -- AJP - Cell Physiology (http://ajpcell.physiology.org/cgi/content/full/285/6/C1420)

"The maximally effective caffeine concentration fully depletes the noradrenaline-sensitive Ca store as found from both contraction and 45Ca efflux experiments."
The effects of caffeine on the noradrenaline-sensitive calcium store in rabbit aorta. (http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=1193260)

[EffEmDoubleyou]

Some quick coffee stuff...

Thanks, JivinJeff. I rarely drink instant, but next time I do I will try that. Notaprettygal's reason makes sense too.

I find Starbucks' regular drip coffee always tastes burned, but I enjoy their espresso drinks. I like the Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf chain much better.

But the best espresso drinks I've ever had in my life are at Caffe Artigiano in Vancouver. And it's not even close. The foam on the cappucino is like velvet. If you love coffee and you ever find yourself in Vancouver, put it at the top of your list of things to do.

[niffer]

I put the milk in first and last with lattes (lulz I really, really like milk). In all other cases, I put it in last.

[htb]

A quart a day. It's good for the spirit.

[Xander]

Ever notice how any thread on coffee is popular?
I gotta wonder if anyone who frequents forums drinks anything else!
:)

[raincrow007]

You left RC007 waiting? And I thought you were a gentleman!

Certainly a brave man :D


He's a gentleman of the old-fashioned sort. ;)

It figures my name would turn up in a thread about coffee. But y'know, there's a real easy way to solve this whole milk dilemma -- just drink it black, fer cryin' out loud. :rolleyes:

:coffee:

[wildcat]

He's a gentleman of the old-fashioned sort. ;)

It figures my name would turn up in a thread about coffee. But y'know, there's a real easy way to solve this whole milk dilemma -- just drink it black, fer cryin' out loud. :rolleyes:

:coffee:
Black?
Kind of hard.. but there is a way.

Not Cafe Beaubourg. Ever.
Not La Deauville.
Not Cafe de Flore.

Try Le Fouquet's.
They regularly run out of milk after midnight.
99 des Champs.

Just a block off the crossing of Rue de Balzac and Rue Lord Byron.

[raincrow007]

Black?
Kind of hard.. but there is a way.

Not Cafe Beaubourg. Ever.
Not La Deauville.
Not Cafe de Flore.

Try Le Fouquet's.
They regularly run out of milk after midnight.
99 des Champs.

Just a block off the crossing of Rue de Balzac and Rue Lord Byron.

Noted. But in case I gave the wrong impression -- I don't always take my coffee black. Sometimes it's just easier than lamenting the fact that the right materials aren't on hand for a really good cup with all the frills. ;)

Sometimes I'm oddly practical like that.

[Xander]

He's a gentleman of the old-fashioned sort. ;)
Precisely. Oh I see you mean he's unaware of the danger and hence innocent. Gotcha.
It figures my name would turn up in a thread about coffee.
Addictive...check.
Keeps you awake at night....check.
Bad for your health and apparently teeth.....check, check.

I'm surprised you even mentioned it. It's elementary dear bird.
:smile:
But y'know, there's a real easy way to solve this whole milk dilemma -- just drink it black, fer cryin' out loud. :rolleyes:
With a dash of cold water. That can make all the difference.

Oh and this does work but only short term I find. For some reason black coffee has a more profound impact. Must be something to do with the lack of emulsifiers or something.
:coffee:
You forgot the portrait of you leaping to attention and hammering the keyboard. Couldn't find a smiley for that huh?
:)

[JivinJeffJones]

But y'know, there's a real easy way to solve this whole milk dilemma -- just drink it black, fer cryin' out loud. :rolleyes:


Have you ever tried drinking instant coffee black?

[raincrow007]

Have you ever tried drinking instant coffee black?

Sure. What -- ya think I've never been camping before? ;)

[563 740]

But y'know, there's a real easy way to solve this whole milk dilemma -- just drink it black, fer cryin' out loud. :rolleyes:

:coffee:

:yes:

Noted. But in case I gave the wrong impression -- I don't always take my coffee black. Sometimes it's just easier than lamenting the fact that the right materials aren't on hand for a really good cup with all the frills. ;)

Sometimes I'm oddly practical like that.

:cry:

Am I the only one who insists it be as black as the night itself??

[JivinJeffJones]

Am I the only one who insists it be as black as the night itself??

You are if you're talking about instant coffee.

[CzeCze]

I drink my coffee like my tea -- i.e. by the quart. I mix it really heavy with milk. I prefer to put my milk in first, because neurotically it bothers me to think that by adding milk last, I'm making my coffee cold.

Did not know about the need to stir thoroughly will try that.

Also, I love Hong Kong style milk tea and Vietnamese coffee and Thai iced tea -- condensed and evaporated milk + caffeine = HEAVEN. And clogged arteries.

I like mixing my coffee with hot choco as well. And I like to start out with dark roast coffee, it tastes better in my opinion.

[sassafrassquatch]

1/8 cup beans per 16oz of water
1/4 cup milk per 16oz of coffee
Drink 2-3 pints a day

/not addicted
//just a little
///to slashies!

[booyalab]

I like making the coffee colder. You can't taste it if you burn your tongue on a regular basis.

[Xander]

Have you ever tried drinking instant coffee black?
Oh boy. There's nothing wrong with decent instant coffee. It's like chocolate cake to me. You can have the double, triple choc with chocolate icing and cream everyday it would just make me sick if it was me. Personally I prefer the sponge with a bit of chocolate icing on it for an everyday affair then treat myself occasionally. Still there is a difference between buying a nice chocolate sponge cake and something which has some brown stuff on it that should be chocolate but is actually just called that cause it's fairly close in all respects except taste. You know kinda like American chocolate :devil:

[Xander]

I like making the coffee colder. You can't taste it if you burn your tongue on a regular basis.
Yeah I'm with you there. Mike keeps moaning at me leaving mine till it goes "cold" but basically I can't see the point of the famous piping hot cuppa. May as well be trying to drink steam. It tastes like there's no flavour and you broil your mouth. Senseless.

Just tell those that do drink it really hot "where there's no sense there's no feeling".

:doh: I shoulda used that one on INTPc :smile:

[Jen]

I don't mind cold coffee either. I can pour a cup in the am and still be drinking that same cup hours later.

Lately I have been fond of Pumpkin Spice Latte's. :coffee:
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/88/232849942_92721915b3.jpg

[JivinJeffJones]

Yeah I'm with you there. Mike keeps moaning at me leaving mine till it goes "cold" but basically I can't see the point of the famous piping hot cuppa. May as well be trying to drink steam. It tastes like there's no flavour and you broil your mouth. Senseless.

Yeah, speaking of which, what is it with grandmothers and scaldingly hot coffees? How do they manage to heat them above 100 degrees c? Their coffees take 2 hours to cool to a drinkable temperature, during which time you can only lose soggy dunking biscuits in their superheated depths.

[prplchknz]

I don't mind cold coffee either. I can pour a cup in the am and still be drinking that same cup hours later.

Lately I have been fond of Pumpkin Spice Latte's. :coffee:
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/88/232849942_92721915b3.jpg

I love the pumpkin spice latte. It's like pumpkin pie minus the texture. Though I do miss the texture and can somtimes bring up the feel of the filling and crust in my mouth as I drink. sooo yummy, I hope they keep it on the menu.

[Xander]

Yeah, speaking of which, what is it with grandmothers and scaldingly hot coffees? How do they manage to heat them above 100 degrees c? Their coffees take 2 hours to cool to a drinkable temperature, during which time you can only lose soggy dunking biscuits in their superheated depths.
:D
If they're like mine it probably has something to do with making coffee like dishwater. No coffee, no sugar and a sliver of milk which isn't refrigerated for about half an hour (and so becomes kinda warm) whilst they make the coffee.

[disregard]

Grind coffee beans
Make doffee
A little Ultra Pasteurized Half and Half (Please.. no milk.. it will dilute the coffee and waste precious space in the cup.)

Sip. Smile. Repeat.

[Ivy]

For Christmas my aunt gave me a can of South American coffee that she bought in Panama I think, which I wasn't expecting much from (she's way cheap, not that there's anything wrong with that). Turns out, it's the best coffee I've ever tasted.

To prepare coffee I use a French press. I boil water on the stove and put the grounds in the bottom of the press. When the water boils I turn it off, wait a minute for it to stop boiling, and fill the press, wait four minutes, push down the plunger. I like it VERY strong, but with lots of milk and sugar as well. Milk (or half & half, if I have it) goes in last since the sugar won't completely dissolve unless the coffee's super-hot.

[JivinJeffJones]

Grind coffee beans
Make doffee
A little Ultra Pasteurized Half and Half (Please.. no milk.. it will dilute the coffee and waste precious space in the cup.)

Sip. Smile. Repeat.

Sadly we have no Half and Half in this country, and (coincidentally?) no decent White Russians. As far as coffee is concerned, I get around our dairy shortcomings (when in the mood for white coffee) by using 3/4 of a cup of espresso with 1/4 of a cup of milk. Puts hair on your chest.

[alicia91]

Mmmm...coffee..my favorite beverage. INSTANT??? (seriously, get yourself a machine - I think they can be purchased for $40 or less. So worth it).

My routine:

Every evening set up coffee machine using Starbucks House Blend and cold water. Make sure timer is set for 5:15am

Wake up. Get cup, pour a little 1/2 & 1/2 or heavy cream into cup. Fill with coffee. Stumble to TV or computer for a 30 minute 'wakeup time.'

There is no reason for the milk first other than laziness - you don't have to stir it! I'm also too lazy to grind my own though I do own a grinder. I'm all about keeping it simple.

[EffEmDoubleyou]

For Christmas my aunt gave me a can of South American coffee that she bought in Panama I think, which I wasn't expecting much from (she's way cheap, not that there's anything wrong with that). Turns out, it's the best coffee I've ever tasted.

To prepare coffee I use a French press. I boil water on the stove and put the grounds in the bottom of the press. When the water boils I turn it off, wait a minute for it to stop boiling, and fill the press, wait four minutes, push down the plunger. I like it VERY strong, but with lots of milk and sugar as well. Milk (or half & half, if I have it) goes in last since the sugar won't completely dissolve unless the coffee's super-hot.

I'm curious about French press. I use a drip coffeemaker for my regular coffee and a moka pot for espresso. What is the advantage of a French press over a regular drip coffeemaker?

[Ivy]

I'm curious about French press. I use a drip coffeemaker for my regular coffee and a moka pot for espresso. What is the advantage of a French press over a regular drip coffeemaker?

For me, the advantage is that it's not always out on the countertop. I don't make coffee every day, and I have limited space, so it's nice that I can put it up in a cabinet when I'm not using it.

[Geoff]

For me, the advantage is that it's not always out on the countertop. I don't make coffee every day, and I have limited space, so it's nice that I can put it up in a cabinet when I'm not using it.

What's a french press? Is it a "cafetiere"?

If so, would you like freedom fries with that coffee? :devil:

[Xander]

For Christmas I got Weasel Coffee! Apparently the weasel eats the bean and then throws up which people then collect and use. Disgusting principle but delicious coffee. Frickin expensive apparently. Damn overpaid weasels!

[Ivy]

What's a french press? Is it a "cafetiere"?

If so, would you like freedom fries with that coffee? :devil:

I think it is also called a cafetiere, yes. It's basically a stainless steel (I've also seem them made of tempered glass) pitcher with a plunger that strains the water and pushes the coffee grounds down. So you pretty much mix coffee grounds and hot water, let it sit for a few minutes, and then push the plunger down to strain the coffee grounds out.

And I would never eat fries & coffee together, even if the alternative is hating America. ;)

[NoahFence]

For me, the advantage is that it's not always out on the countertop. I don't make coffee every day, and I have limited space, so it's nice that I can put it up in a cabinet when I'm not using it.

Let's not forget: no filters. It uses a metal mesh that's washable.

It also just makes better coffee, IMO, richer/fuller taste (my taste echoes Ivy's, gimme diesel, light tan with the spoon standing up). You put the coffee in the bottom of the pot and pour the boiling water in. The water swirls the grounds around until you plunge it, rather than trickling through it on the way down, and hits it hotter.

Also no chance of the joys of running the coffee machine with the pot slightly askew, causing the valve under the filter cone to stay closed, which makes the basket overflow and causes chunky hot protocoffee to cascade down the sides into an expanding puddle of hazelnut/mocha stain.

[Jen]

For Christmas I got Weasel Coffee! Apparently the weasel eats the bean and then throws up which people then collect and use. Disgusting principle but delicious coffee. Frickin expensive apparently. Damn overpaid weasels!Xander I don't know what to say other than you are defacing your avatar by speaking about regurgitated (by weasels no less!) coffee beans.
I think it is also called a cafetiere, yes. It's basically a stainless steel (I've also seem them made of tempered glass) pitcher with a plunger that strains the water and pushes the coffee grounds down. So you pretty much mix coffee grounds and hot water, let it sit for a few minutes, and then push the plunger down to strain the coffee grounds out.

And I would never eat fries & coffee together, even if the alternative is hating America. ;)I always see those for sale cheap! Do you think it makes better coffee than an machine?

[alcea rosea]

..but one thing no one seems set on is milk first or second?


Rice milk first, of course. ;)

[EffEmDoubleyou]

Let's not forget: no filters. It uses a metal mesh that's washable.

It also just makes better coffee, IMO, richer/fuller taste (my taste echoes Ivy's, gimme diesel, light tan with the spoon standing up). You put the coffee in the bottom of the pot and pour the boiling water in. The water swirls the grounds around until you plunge it, rather than trickling through it on the way down, and hits it hotter.

Also no chance of the joys of running the coffee machine with the pot slightly askew, causing the valve under the filter cone to stay closed, which makes the basket overflow and causes chunky hot protocoffee to cascade down the sides into an expanding puddle of hazelnut/mocha stain.

Ahhh, I see. I like my coffee diesel strength too, so maybe I will look into this. I'm never making coffee for more than one person, too, so the size is not an issue. I'd love to get that giant hulk of a coffeepot off the counter.

[Ivy]

Ahhh, I see. I like my coffee diesel strength too, so maybe I will look into this. I'm never making coffee for more than one person, too, so the size is not an issue. I'd love to get that giant hulk of a coffeepot off the counter.

This (http://www.bodumusa.com/shop/line.asp?MD=1&GID=3&LID=282&CHK=&SLT=&mscssid=3QFMVV6C9JRW8KEXRX300TM5W3490B66) is the one we have. It was a gift- if I had been picking, I would probably have picked this one (http://www.bodumusa.com/shop/line.asp?MD=1&GID=3&LID=3&CHK=&SLT=&mscssid=3QFMVV6C9JRW8KEXRX300TM5W3490B66).

[Xander]

Xander I don't know what to say other than you are defacing your avatar by speaking about regurgitated (by weasels no less!) coffee beans.
Straw. Hello. :rolleyes:
Rice milk first, of course. ;)
:shock: Now that's just silly. How you gonna milk rice?

I dunno where you get these ideas :rolleyes:

[AllAboutSoul]

He's a gentleman of the old-fashioned sort. ;)

It figures my name would turn up in a thread about coffee. But y'know, there's a real easy way to solve this whole milk dilemma -- just drink it black, fer cryin' out loud. :rolleyes:

:coffee:

Yep, black's the only way to go. And...buy a Bunn.

[Athenian200]

It seems like it's common for people to be very particular about their coffee. When I drink it, I usually just take a spoon of instant coffee, pour boiled water over it (don't have a coffeemaker), put in creamer and sugar, and then stir and drink it.

I make tea similarly, except I steep the tea bag in the mug for five minutes, and then and either drink it as is, or add cream and sugar.

Oddly enough, I like regular tea better than iced tea. That seems to be an unusual preference of mine, because I've never met anyone else who liked it (until Xander said he knew people that liked tea).

[Vortex]

Mmmm...coffee..my favorite beverage. INSTANT??? (seriously, get yourself a machine - I think they can be purchased for $40 or less. So worth it).


It sounds insane, but for someone as disorganized as I am, using anything other than instant in the morning doesn't happen. I know I could set my coffeemaker up in the evening, and sometimes I do, but I forget to push the button in the morning. I'm so terrible at mornings that I've started to drink tea instead of coffee because it requires less movement and ingredients to make.

Hmmm - maybe I should set up my one-cup French press for the mornings and put it on the counter. That might actually help a bit. Like, I would see it right there in front of me instead of forgetting about it completely.

[Vortex]

Oddly enough, I like regular tea better than iced tea. That seems to be an unusual preference of mine, because I've never met anyone else who liked it (until Xander said he knew people that liked tea).

Are you serious? I don't even think I've seen anyone drink iced tea for several years. I certainly know I haven't. Maybe I'm biased. Most of my immediate relations, including myself, drink massive amounts of hot tea - sometimes we even drink the real, loose stuff that doesn't resemble sawdust in a filter. :yes:

[alcea rosea]

:shock: Now that's just silly. How you gonna milk rice?


Haven't you heard of rice cow that give rice milk? :unsure:
.
.
.
:whistling:
.
.
.
Actually there is a thing called rice milk for those people who cannot drink the "real" milk. Soya milk can also be found from stores as well as oat milk. I have to use these replacement milks for now because of some reasons that I'm too lazy to explain now. ;)

[Athenian200]

Are you serious? I don't even think I've seen anyone drink iced tea for several years. I certainly know I haven't. Maybe I'm biased. Most of my immediate relations, including myself, drink massive amounts of hot tea - sometimes we even drink the real, loose stuff that doesn't resemble sawdust in a filter. :yes:

But you're in Europe, right? I'm in the United States, so it might be a culture difference. People drink Iced Tea a lot here. I've even heard people here claim it's unpatriotic to drink regular tea (I have no idea why), so I just don't drink it in front of people. I tried it once and now I don't want to stop drinking it.

Oh, and sorry to derail your topic about coffee with a conversation about tea, Xander.

[alcea rosea]

But you're in Europe, right? I'm in the United States, so it might be a culture difference. People drink Iced Tea a lot here. I've even heard people here claim it's unpatriotic to drink regular tea (I have no idea why), so I just don't drink it in front of people. I tried it once and now I don't want to stop drinking it.

Oh, and sorry to derail your topic about coffee with a conversation about tea, Xander.


Do you like green tea Athenian?

[Athenian200]

Do you like green tea Athenian?

It seems okay, but I also like something called "Chai" tea, as well as Earl Grey, Prince of Wales, and various other teas. I like most of them, actually.

[Vortex]

But you're in Europe, right? I'm in the United States, so it might be a culture difference. People drink Iced Tea a lot here. I've even heard people here claim it's unpatriotic to drink regular tea (I have no idea why), so I just don't drink it in front of people. I tried it once and now I don't want to stop drinking it.


Yes, of course you are right about the cultural difference, but it just blows my mind because I had absolutely no idea about this. Like jaw-dropping amazement. And it shocks me even more to learn that some consider tea-drinking unpatriotic. That would never occur to me, particularly since my favourite bagged tea-brand is American Celestial Seasonings.

Enjoy your tea :yes:

[Athenian200]

Yes, of course you are right about the cultural difference, but it just blows my mind because I had absolutely no idea about this. Like jaw-dropping amazement. And it shocks me even more to learn that some consider tea-drinking unpatriotic. That would never occur to me, particularly since my favourite bagged tea-brand is American Celestial Seasonings.

Enjoy your tea :yes:

Well, I'm not sure this is all over America, it could be more common in the South. And probably not everyone thinks that even here, because the stores do stock it and aren't boycotted or anything.

People just don't seem to drink tea as much here for some reason. Although they could just be adverse to the people who disapprove seeing them drink it like I am. I kind of wish it were more common, though.

Thanks, I will enjoy it. :)

[Xander]

It seems okay, but I also like something called "Chai" tea, as well as Earl Grey, Prince of Wales, and various other teas. I like most of them, actually.
If you like a nice light cuppa then the best thing I've found is Twinings Green and Black blend. It's so refreshing the milk is usually optional. In fact one of my friends alternates between strong coffee, two sugars and milk to naked green and black tea.

As for iced tea I think you'd just get stared at if you asked fro it around here. It's just not cricket ;)

Oh and I'd also suggest my fathers favourite which is Assam tea. I'm not sure if he likes it because of the taste or because he never gets tired of the jokes like "Let's Assam tea" but it tastes nice to me.

[INTJMom]

Did you know Oolong tea is excellent for loosening up chest congestion?
I buy the leaves from my local Chinese restaurant.

[EffEmDoubleyou]

Are you serious? I don't even think I've seen anyone drink iced tea for several years. I certainly know I haven't. Maybe I'm biased. Most of my immediate relations, including myself, drink massive amounts of hot tea - sometimes we even drink the real, loose stuff that doesn't resemble sawdust in a filter. :yes:

I only drink iced tea, hardly ever hot tea. I suppose it's because wherever hot tea is available, coffee usually is as well and I love coffee.

That's not to say that the idea of drinking hot tea is foreign for me as it seems to be for Athenian.

[CzeCze]

Well, I'm not sure this is all over America, it could be more common in the South.

Sweet Tea! Yummy. Considering soda is also just sugar water and a Type II Diabetes in a bottle, I prefer sweet tea.

The McDonald's in some regions will sell it.

I like tea as well as coffee. I drink my coffee black now, after discovering that decent coffee doesn't need to be masked. Tea, I prefer with lots of milk and honey.

I drink iced tea. Matcha sweet tea is HEAVENLY. Pure sugar. Peet's Coffee has an okay sweet green tea slushie, but I prefer the real deal. Also, adding mashed fruit like peaches to a container of iced tea in the fridge is also HEAVENLY.

Cooler drinks are easier to drink than hotter. Hot tea to me is more ritualized, you're meant to savor it with snackies and a friend. I just imagine sitting by the window on a drizzly afternoon wearing a sweater and warming up with tea. Blame it on watching too much tv and commercials. But tea that's not that hot and especially iced tea is a substitute for water and you can chug it down!

Also, I know this may veer on sounding a little too scatalogical, but you are what you eat and I prefer the idea of drinking something aromatic and sweet rather than acidic and sharp. I mean, they do say vegans smell better. I always wonder if you drink a gallon of rose hips tea every day if you'll start smelling like roses!

And does bubble tea count? Because I definitely drink that!

[Xander]

For all those who wish to share in the experience of Weasel sick coffee, it's available here Weasel Coffee (http://www.firebox.com/?dir=firebox&action=product&pid=616)

Get those orders in ;)

[Ivy]

For all those who wish to share in the experience of Weasel sick coffee, it's available here Weasel Coffee (http://www.firebox.com/?dir=firebox&action=product&pid=616)

Get those orders in ;)

"Sorry, this product is not available."

:cry:

[Xander]

"Sorry, this product is not available."

:cry:
Damn my inattentive eyes!!!

(I go find a REAL coffee seller.)

[Xander]

Okay these seem to stock it (amongst what can only be described as similarly themed snacks) [url=http://www.lazyboneuk.com/store/pro501.html]Edible Stuff from

[Jen]

Well Xander, at least you're not eating sheep shit.

Please tell me you're not eating sheep shit!

[Xander]

Well Xander, at least you're not eating sheep shit.

Please tell me you're not eating sheep shit!
No I'm from the east side. That's west side maaan!!

:party2:

[EffEmDoubleyou]

Sweet Tea! Yummy. Considering soda is also just sugar water and a Type II Diabetes in a bottle, I prefer sweet tea.

The McDonald's in some regions will sell it.

I like tea as well as coffee. I drink my coffee black now, after discovering that decent coffee doesn't need to be masked. Tea, I prefer with lots of milk and honey.

I drink iced tea. Matcha sweet tea is HEAVENLY. Pure sugar. Peet's Coffee has an okay sweet green tea slushie, but I prefer the real deal. Also, adding mashed fruit like peaches to a container of iced tea in the fridge is also HEAVENLY.

Cooler drinks are easier to drink than hotter. Hot tea to me is more ritualized, you're meant to savor it with snackies and a friend. I just imagine sitting by the window on a drizzly afternoon wearing a sweater and warming up with tea. Blame it on watching too much tv and commercials. But tea that's not that hot and especially iced tea is a substitute for water and you can chug it down!

Also, I know this may veer on sounding a little too scatalogical, but you are what you eat and I prefer the idea of drinking something aromatic and sweet rather than acidic and sharp. I mean, they do say vegans smell better. I always wonder if you drink a gallon of rose hips tea every day if you'll start smelling like roses!

And does bubble tea count? Because I definitely drink that!

Hah, the cultural differences are amusing. I once had sweet tea in the south and I felt like I wanted to brush my teeth with a Brillo pad. I don't think I'd ever have it again. I like a big glass of unsweetened iced tea with half a pack of Splenda and maybe a slice of orange if I have it around. Mmmm.

And bubble tea...I tried that once before I knew that the balls were made of tapioca. The texture was so strange, and when combined with my ignorance of what they were made of, I allowed myself to imagine that they were eyeballs. Needless to say, I don't think I'll be drinking bubble tea anymore either! :wacko:

[alcea rosea]

...back to coffee.

How about this :drool::

http://sparklette.net/archives/467/cappuccino.jpg

[AliciaS2R]

Yep, black's the only way to go. And...buy a Bunn.

Bunn, the only coffee maker I will buy. The one I have is 10 years old and still going strong. A carafe of coffee is ready in 3 minutes. No setting it up with a timer, just set up the filter and pour in the water. I know some coffee officianados will tell you that the water is stale, but to me it is hot and fresh. Oh, and I put the half and half or the chocolate raspberry creamer in last. :)

[CzeCze]

I like to French Press my caffeinated hot beverages. I feel so continental.

[CzeCze]

And bubble tea...I tried that once before I knew that the balls were made of tapioca. The texture was so strange, and when combined with my ignorance of what they were made of, I allowed myself to imagine that they were eyeballs. Needless to say, I don't think I'll be drinking bubble tea anymore either! :wacko:

No bubble tea in a city that may arguably have the most and tastiest bubble teas outside of Hong Kong. Tsk, tsk.

I used to like bubble tea until I tasted a lot of really bad ones. Chalky or just off tasting. At one whole foods Chinese market, the tapioca balls were 'hand made' which basically meant misshapen hard lumps. Blech.

You should try those tasty colorful Vietnamese drinks. The tapioca in some of those is shredded so cannot remind you of any body parts.

And you can try Vietnamese caphe (that's coffee). Nice and strong and sweet, like most hybrid Asian coffees. Condensed milk, it's good for ya!

See, I turned the post around! It's relevant. :yes:

[Athenian200]

No bubble tea in a city that may arguably have the most and tastiest bubble teas outside of Hong Kong. Tsk, tsk.

I used to like bubble tea until I tasted a lot of really bad ones. Chalky or just off tasting. At one whole foods Chinese market, the tapioca balls were 'hand made' which basically meant misshapen hard lumps. Blech.

I've never had Bubble Tea, but I did know someone who claimed they liked it a lot... I've been wondering if it was worth trying. It seems like you're saying that it's not that great, right?

[EffEmDoubleyou]

I've never had Bubble Tea, but I did know someone who claimed they liked it a lot... I've been wondering if it was worth trying. It seems like you're saying that it's not that great, right?

The one I had was peach flavored, and the actual taste of it was quite good. It was the texture of the "bubbles" that turned me off. It's a little frothier than regular tea, it sort of reminded me of an Orange Julius.

[CzeCze]

I've never had Bubble Tea, but I did know someone who claimed they liked it a lot... I've been wondering if it was worth trying. It seems like you're saying that it's not that great, right?

It's actually very good if you like sweet drinks. They aren't carbonated and are generally more milk based (there are a few that you can order without the milk). They originated in Hong Kong or Taiwan so they usually come with requisite cute packaging usually including giant colorful straws and cutesy plastic lids shrink wrapped on if you go to some places. My favorite is usually the taro or just the plain milk tea.

It's technically 'tea' but I think with some of the flavors it's more like a milk soft drink. So similar to your frothy drink at Starbucks. :rolleyes:

The texture of the tapioca balls is familiar to people who grew up with a lot of far Eastern cuisines, since tapioca is used in desserts and resembles the chewiness of rice confections. Even with people who aren't use to it, the drinks are especially popular with students and people in CA. Except for FM...cause he's strange like that. (Hahaha, you know I kid).

The reason I stopped drinking it is that there are so many bubble tea places that have popped up that the quality is now hit or miss.

I would definitely give it a try, if the place is packed that's a good indicator.

If you aren't sure about the tapioca balls, you can always request with less or none at all.

[Xander]

See, I turned the post around! It's relevant. :yes:
Relevancy is soo overrated :D

So I'm gathering that only a handful have any appreciation for instant coffee. I have to conclude that the instant available abroad must be dire!

[Geoff]

I hope you will all take pity on me, I went caffeine-free a week ago (trying to get rid of persistent headaches...). Oh, for a real coffee!

-Geoff

[Xander]

Did the headaches get worse?

[Geoff]

Did the headaches get worse?

Yeah I had withdrawal headaches for a couple of days until Thursday, but I've felt much better since!

-Geoff

[Xander]

Yeah I had withdrawal headaches for a couple of days until Thursday, but I've felt much better since!

-Geoff
Do you object to tea? If not then try some tea next time. I find that changing source of caffeine works. Either that or more sleep.

[Geoff]

Do you object to tea? If not then try some tea next time. I find that changing source of caffeine works. Either that or more sleep.

Sleep! SLEEP! :banned:

-Geoff

[Xander]

Sleep! SLEEP! :banned:

-Geoff
You no hear of tension headache?

Put down the keyboard and back away from the PC ;)

For some reason I thought you had a missus who'd keep you in line on such things as appropriate times to be solving problems and such.

[Geoff]

You no hear of tension headache?

Put down the keyboard and back away from the PC ;)

For some reason I thought you had a missus who'd keep you in line on such things as appropriate times to be solving problems and such.

Wait, you want me to follow rules now? :shock:

Heh.. no I usually get 6 or 7 hours sleep which is just fine for me.

Back on topic. Does anyone have experience of caffeine triggering migraines, and how one might know (short of giving it up and counting the migraines which is what I am doing now).

Anyone found any good quality decaff coffee?

-Geoff

[Xander]

Wait, you want me to follow rules now? :shock:

Heh.. no I usually get 6 or 7 hours sleep which is just fine for me.

Back on topic. Does anyone have experience of caffeine triggering migraines, and how one might know (short of giving it up and counting the migraines which is what I am doing now).

Anyone found any good quality decaff coffee?

-Geoff
You tried making it weaker? My father tends to get headaches if he drinks coffee but there again he just gave it up and is now on fruit tea!!! Personally I wouldn't wish nettle tea on anyone except as a de-hydrant!

Anyhow I thought that recent research reckoned that migraines were chemical imbalances and hence not linked to tension?

[mippus]

Does anyone have experience of caffeine triggering migraines, and how one might know (short of giving it up and counting the migraines which is what I am doing now).

Anyone found any good quality decaff coffee?

-Geoff


I know people who get migraines that are triggered by caffeine but have no experience with it myself...

Espresso contains very little caffeine. I haven't read all 100 previous posts, so this may be no news, but caffeine takes 30 seconds to dissolve in water. So if you make your espresso in less than that, dose should be very limited and far more tasty than most decaff's.

I actually have very good experience with Nespresso's decaff. Not cheap but very tasty...

[Athenian200]

Does anyone have experience of caffeine triggering migraines, and how one might know (short of giving it up and counting the migraines which is what I am doing now).

Anyone found any good quality decaff coffee?

-Geoff

From what I've heard, decaf coffee only removes most of the caffeine, leaving about 3% of it. I've also heard of health concerns about the chemicals (methylene chloride) they use to remove the caffeine.

You might be better off trying to drink something without caffeine naturally.

[mippus]

From what I've heard, decaf coffee only removes most of the caffeine, leaving about 3% of it. I've also heard of health concerns about the chemicals (methylene chloride) they use to remove the caffeine.

You might be better off trying to drink something without caffeine naturally.

EU standard is that only .1% is left, and since I see you're English...
In my family, there is a persistent group that drinks "coffee" made of acorns. I loathe the idea, but they are very satisfied with this alternative...