Every now and then, my husband or I would quietly praise the quality of our morning coffee as we take that first sip and start our day. However, more often than not, the coffee we brew at home is just satisfactory. It took me a while to realize that despite using good beans, we might not always achieve the best coffee because we didn’t have the right equipment. Upon researching, I found out that having the right tools can significantly improve the brewing process. While some of these tools can be expensive, there are also affordable options that experts recommend. For example, a burr grinder, which can grind beans to a consistent coarseness, typically starts at $100. Additionally, a reverse-osmosis filtration system, which helps in reducing the mineral content in hard water, can cost over $100.
Fortunately, there are several affordable items that can greatly enhance your coffee-making experience. Here are five reasonably priced items to consider.
The Ideal Storage Container
These sturdy, well-sealed plastic containers come in various sizes and are easy to stack, scoop, and pour from.
Oxygen can cause coffee to become stale. If your beans or grounds come in a sturdy valve bag, which is foil-lined and resealable, it’s best not to transfer them to a storage container as the bag is sufficient in keeping oxygen out. However, for beans in a non-valve bag, it’s recommended to use an airtight container. The Rubbermaid Brilliance Pantry Storage Containers are a durable and tightly sealed option. In any case, it’s important to store your beans in a cool, dark place, away from light, heat, and moisture to maintain their freshness.
A Kitchen Scale
The compact and accurate LB-3000 scale reads in 0.1-gram increments.
Beans and grounds vary in size and shape, which can impact the coffee-to-water ratio, leading to inconsistent brews. A scale can help in achieving accurate measurements, hence improving consistency. The American Weigh Scales LB-3000 Compact Digital Scale is a highly accurate option. Alternatively, for a more budget-friendly choice, the Ozeri Pronto Digital Multifunction Kitchen and Food Scale is recommended.
A Pour-Over Dripper
The Kalita Wave 185 Dripper offers the most even extraction and best-tasting coffee compared to other pour-over options.
Drippers allow for precise control over the saturation of coffee with water, resulting in a more even flavor extraction. The Kalita Wave 185 Dripper is known for consistently producing great coffee, making it suitable for both beginners and experts alike.
A Preferred Mug
An affordable modern take on the classic diner mug that comes in various muted color options.
To fully savor the flavor of your coffee, it’s crucial to drink it at just the right temperature. A good mug ensures that you can enjoy the aroma and taste without scalding your tongue. There are various mug options available, and our budget-friendly recommendation is the IKEA Dinera Mug – 10 oz. For those willing to spend a little extra, the Highwave Cafe Classic Mug is also a great choice.
Descaling Solution
Regular descaling can significantly enhance the taste of your coffee. While a vinegar-water solution can be used for cleaning, a prepared solution can make the process easier. The Urnex Dezcal Coffee and Espresso Descaler and Cleaner is a recommended option for coffee and espresso makers, as well as kettles.
