View Full Version : The Coffeehouse.... Baristi, Barista, Bariste
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Congo coffee.
Very nice indeed.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200923/f5ef64cbd35ac3ccaf6f23a227392ed6.jpg
Looks good, how's it taste.
I tend to go for medium roast beans with “chocolate”, “biscuits”, “dried fruit” sorts of notes.
This one has that typical flavour profile I like, so low acidity, smooth yet with a complex flavour profile and ridiculous aromas compared to mass produced coffee.
Peace be with you brothers.
Nah not really. Sod the lot of you!:D
That North Kiva Conga coffee is really quite impressive on further reflection. Not used to finding coffee in a supermarket that is very good. This is I think.
Waitrose.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200925/4bbcf6bb19727ba7ee6d2be668f88a7f.jpg
Noice... Is that the Crossdressers Convention symbol?:D
Marco.
It's actually the Pepperoni Stick man stuck in a circular vortex throwing up to the right.
Ah, quality:eyebrows:
Marco.
This morning's slurp-ette... Two shots of espresso...
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/UzhIBS.jpg
...quickly turn into a creamy cappuccino:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/924/Nuq2ye.jpg
...then sprinkle on some choc:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/1Buvp0.jpg
Gorgeous!:cool:
Marco.
Looking very good can actually see some coffee, which is a good thang IMHO.
Lol - it's always been there, just covered with milk! :D
I like a cappuccino, so you need lots of milk to fill the large cup I normally use. It's much easier to froth the milk properly and get the coffee consistency right when you're filling a smaller cup:)
Marco.
needs more coffee for my taste.. i fill mine 2/3 up then add milk. obviously the final half of coffee is fairly weak but its stronger than all that milk.
More coffee mate, you think so? Not for me, as trust me what was there was STRONG [14.5g of ground beans], so even when topped up with milk, the coffee flavour was very prominent and shone through - I defo wouldn't want it any stronger, and so think 3 shots in the one cup (that size anyway) would be too much:)
Marco.
More coffee mate, you think so? Not for me, as trust me what was there was STRONG [14.5g of ground beans], so even when topped up with milk, the coffee flavour was very prominent and shone through - I defo wouldn't want it any stronger, and so think 3 shots in the one cup (that size anyway) would be too much:)
Marco.
i use a double shot but keep it running. im not too much in love with milk i'd take all that milk
Ah I see, fair enough... I hate 'raw' cold milk, but when frothed up like that, especially the super-fresh/creamy stuff we get from the dairy, in the context of a milky coffee, especially with some chocolate added, I love it!
At the bottom of the cup, I always use a spoon to scoop up the milky, 'coffee-infused choco-foam' - YUM!:cool:
Marco.
I only drink black coffee, and Sue doesn’t like fresh coffee (heathen) so I’ve decided to go back to a French press, because apparently I deserve it... :lol:
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200926/fe84a8e7dcb434c459ec1920675a442d.jpg
A rather nice one this.. Super thick
Like me
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200927/868721496a5ef9cf1520772843a659ab.jpg
I only drink black coffee, and Sue doesn’t like fresh coffee (heathen) so I’ve decided to go back to a French press, because apparently I deserve it... :lol:
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200926/fe84a8e7dcb434c459ec1920675a442d.jpg
:lol:
Ah I see, fair enough... I hate 'raw' cold milk, but when frothed up like that, especially the super-fresh/creamy stuff we get from the dairy, in the context of a milky coffee, especially with some chocolate added, I love it!
At the bottom of the cup, I always use a spoon to scoop up the milky, 'coffee-infused choco-foam' - YUM!:cool:
Marco.
Weirdly am not a big fan of warmed or frothed milk. I think it’s because I like espresso (through a machine) or Americano (through a dripper), and have always just used cold milk.
I am a huge fan of crema though, and to break the rules to enjoy the occasional Cortado or Macchiato. :)
Yeah, whatever you're into, mate:)
I'm Italian, so a frothy cappuccino (or latte) with breakfast is near-mandatory, but in Italy frowned upon after 11am, after which it's espressos or macchiatos all the way until the following morning.
I like all GOOD forms of coffee [read as made properly with freshly ground beans], even French press or the drip stuff you like. I don't 'do' instant though, or anything that hasn't been made in a proper machine by someone who knows what they're doing.
I just have high standards with everything that I eat or drink!;)
Marco.
A coffee this morning
Not a huge amount of light in room although it's sunny outhttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201002/b00aee7839ae2f9251f70b1578591607.jpg
edit.. maybe due to abstenence but that was bang on...:D
Nice and creamy, especially the 'centre gloop':eyebrows:
Marco.
yes it was very creamy that one.. got milk just right.
had lunch(fish chips beans lol) and made my daughter an olive bread... thats me done for the day. film time:eyebrows:
Quality, mate. Just the type of weather too for hibernating and watching a good film... What you got lined up, is it anything from this century?:D;)
Marco.
Quality, mate. Just the type of weather too for hibernating and watching a good film... What you got lined up, is it anything from this century?:D;)
Marco.
https://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?9059-Now-Screening-What-Are-You-Watching-Right-Now&p=1225068#post1225068
nice sunny day here so far
Nice one, makes a pleasant change, lol! It's dry here so far, but dull and overcast.
Marco.
Yes, I occassionally suffer from IBS, which in turn causes IBS (Irritable Bladder Syndrome) Went to doc as I thought I might have a bladder infection (constant weeing) the doc has advised me to stay off caffeine for the time being. The one thing I love is a morning coffee using my Aeropress....Grrrrrr.
The roasting and beans will make a big difference here. Go for an El Salvador, Cuban, or Mexican medium roast for example and they are not very acidic. Some beans like Kenya Blue Mountain are way too acidic for my tastes. Aeropress also keeps the acidity down vs machine I think.
I know these are a pretty standard available thing to get in the U.K.
They are probably available in your Tesco markets.
But we only see these around the holidays here, and never in tins this size!
I love these with coffee, I really love these!
I got a tin at Costco ,soon they will have holiday deals on scotch !
shortbread?, yeah its made mostly in scotland i think.. always scottish stuff i buy.. love good shortbread.. my mum used to make great butter shortbread
StingRay
05-10-2020, 13:04
shortbread?, yeah its made mostly in scotland i think.. always scottish stuff i buy.. love good shortbread.. my mum used to make great butter shortbread
Thats an idea, may buy some tomorrow, not had it in years.
walpurgis
05-10-2020, 13:11
Does anybody make longbread? :)
Does anybody make longbread? :)
yup, i used to make longbread :ner: poolish
StingRay
05-10-2020, 14:04
Does anybody make longbread? :)
Baguette is longbread.
Gad a mouthful.. I've a small mouth lolhttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201006/6a61d285b1d3151bc6f61de68a59e13a.jpg
...but to keep the girls happy, you make up for it with a long tongue!:D:eyebrows:
Marco,
...but to keep the girls happy, you make up for it with a long tongue!:D:eyebrows:
Marco,
scare the b'jezus out of them more like
Wogan Costa Rica Tarrazu San Luis.
Damned fine shit if you ask me. Which, of course, you don't!
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201009/f80edf6aab2da8cf054f23bdb3b35797.jpg
Like that one, Justers. Looks nice and rich:thumbsup:
Marco.
Late one todayhttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201011/612a6c5cd23e53758a9cf4743b3d0779.jpg
Afternoon cup. The same coffee finished three times. Did too much milk!
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201018/b626b03791e1aede43b3770f9a33b3ca.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201018/48eb6067823a092a4dba1e196014e84e.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201018/b6ce7c4677a8424012708b3f6f732a6d.jpg
Having tea today instead of coffee.
Chai to be exact with honey
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201022/d8a37fed7a4f76bbc67f8d71e5a229bd.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201022/b22dad22be2edab23d96c8ffebd0d524.jpg
Gold top Tarrazu.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201022/2cb502f7a98dda45c95708f1b440fd1a.jpg
Tasted great. I must change my milk order to include more gold top.
I can only take lactose free. Looking like yeast is a problem now too. Old age doesn't come cheap
Some nice coffees here, chaps - liking the dark ones, Justers! This morning's shlurp-ette, at Smeg Towers:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/P0ucY2.jpg
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/DDUa52.jpg
Was nice:)
Marco.
Yeah that Tarrazu produces a truck load of dark crema.
SSSSSSSSSSSSMMMMMMMEEEGGGGG looks good:fingers:
Today I am burning coffee, not drinking it!
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201025/f376b56a5c18d6736af78e2e66211fc9.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201025/ab07636af926aef48851c3f7673c1edf.jpg
Supposed to burn very hot these.
Coffee and tea delivery from wogan.
Darjeeling and jasmine Green.
Coffee is Costa Rica tarrazu and sumatra kerinci alcohttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201027/cc13c178fef166e9958f4d1ae0cd1dfd.jpg
Darjeeling
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201027/1b32f28bac8a7a08e793191524a84e16.jpg
Nice to see you drinking some quality tea too, Granty, which I also do. It's a nice alternative sometimes to coffee. I often enjoy a Darjeeling (or Assam) in the afternoon with a nice slice of cake!:)
Marco.
Nice to see you drinking some quality tea too, Granty, which I also do. It's a nice alternative sometimes to coffee. I often enjoy a Darjeeling (or Assam) in the afternoon with a nice slice of cake!:)
Marco.
im giving tea a chance... :Dive a few different ones on order too in small batches to try. cant find any of my porcelain cups tho. must have packed them away somewhere:doh:
Quality teas are wonderful. I presume it's loose-leaf you're buying? This is the company I use, and the quality of their tea is superb: https://www.mysticbrewteas.com/?utm_campaign=newsletter-blog_posts-1f43693221fe435cb0714d3fde00595f&utm_medium=email&utm_source=seguno
Marco.
Quality teas are wonderful. I presume it's loose-leaf you're buying? This is the company I use, and the quality of their tea is superb: https://www.mysticbrewteas.com/?utm_campaign=newsletter-blog_posts-1f43693221fe435cb0714d3fde00595f&utm_medium=email&utm_source=seguno
Marco.
i got some loose from wogan coffee.. seems quite good and ive some on order from whitards i think it was... but thanks for the link. i will try theirs too. ive a tea kettle on order too:eyebrows: it will help with temps etc as im using the coffee machine at moment for hot water
Lol - nice one... Love it!:D
Marco.
That Tarrazu is lovely I think.
If you remember say what you think of the Indonesian when the time comes.
Green tea to start and now a coffee.
Tea had a tiny dribble of lemon inhttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201028/c9f463e384eafcd2f5830d5b8f293782.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201028/78509273ff7497e15584454f5e4194ce.jpg
i got some loose from wogan coffee.. seems quite good and ive some on order from whitards i think it was... but thanks for the link. i will try theirs too. ive a tea kettle on order too:eyebrows: it will help with temps etc as im using the coffee machine at moment for hot water
oh ive ordered a few from here. person seems nice that runs it
That Tarrazu is lovely I think.
If you remember say what you think of the Indonesian when the time comes.Will do
Morning Americano on the Aeropress. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201029/ad9818d69a229fe5301239b62097b5ed.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201029/d0ecbdb02f5f8e465ebb6ff43425deef.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201029/51f02ea995048de28dcdaf8c4e864045.jpg
Jasmine Green tea again.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201029/ea197739e353c048615e68aeed057d21.jpg
Nice... Liking the cup and spoon:)
Marco.
Nice... Liking the cup and spoon:)
Marco.
had to get a new kettle as using coffee machine wasnt overly practicle. got a variable boil one that you can set temp for different things etc.. quite quick and stylish.
yes new cup, spoon and bamboo saucer. quite nice and takes a decent amount too.
Lol - nice one... Can't believe you didn't have a kettle, though!:eek::D
Marco.
Have one but it's old and passed its best tbh. It's probably boiled 10k times. The wife did like her tea.
I rarely use a kettle so never got round to getting a new one.
Can set temp on this so very useful for things like green tea
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201029/90e7c7d0597aa5e88a03d601e5fa9f3a.jpg
Good stuff, how much was it and from where? We simply couldn't live without a kettle, especially at this time of year when I have to make Del's hot-water bottle, for her to cuddle, at least 10 times a day!:eek::D
Marco.
decen amazon homepage
https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/Decen/Homepage/page/B85E1A47-D820-4AC2-89D6-51A4317E4841
and the kettle listing
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B083SFB317/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Looks good, mate. When our current one goes, I'll get one of those, as I like the idea of being able to vary the temperature and also infuse tea in it:)
Marco.
Looks good, mate. When our current one goes, I'll get one of those, as I like the idea of being able to vary the temperature and also infuse tea in it:)
Marco.
only tried it twice but its quiet and fairly quick. yeah you can use your own temp but it has a number of tea programs to. so select say green and it heats to 80c'
if making a lot you can use it as a teapot too
Twining chai no 29 bag at 95c with honey. 3mins 30secs brew. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201029/c8177e2e7d62c2cef733759ced91892b.jpg
Lovely colour and nicely spiced. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201029/18ff9e3eb33be1f89e588aca709bf4c6.jpg
Why not raise a tea thread, Grant?
It's possible if there's enough interest. Leave it piggyback this for now tho.
Coffee this morning
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201030/800920c9c05eaa724eee75b3aeb48e2d.jpg
Lady Grey.
With a little honey. 3 minute brew at 95c from a twining teabag. Old square type. water, magnesium filtered
Lockdown cup.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201101/ee8c48ff2067160e4b0b73eb2257dceb.jpg
Glam coffee https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201107/fd1e45bdc4295f69a82949c505338374.jpg
Morning coffee
Rather tasty toohttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201113/e177efa7145901fcf20fc0d9f23bfa92.jpg
Tuesday again
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201124/27538d642e03066e04a0d82786ee2a96.jpg
Is Choozday shpechial, then?:D
Marco.
Anyway, did you get round to buying some of this Lavazza I recommended?:)
For me, they're the best 'base' mixer beans out there, which produce a wonderful crema, and a lovely smooth, rich flavour:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/924/oPNgJK.jpg
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/924/fhDaQ3.jpg
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/924/xqPcxc.jpg
I'll be using it permanently from now on: https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B00EUPLDNY/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Highly recommended, mate!:cool:
Marco.
Not yet. Still plenty of the segfredo
No worries, mate. Defo try it when the Sega runs out, as it's top-notch:)
Marco.
There is definitely much better coffee around than Lavazza Marco.
Try a mixed lot of Wogan - say 4 different types at 250g to get an idea of good coffee at very reasonable prices. Then tell me I am talking zee shiteloa!
Lavazza? No, not really, I think. Mass produced boolarks. I know you are using it as a base, but even so.
In anticipation of the backlash...;):)
Lol, no... No backlash, dude. Remember that Granty and moi like to combine basic 'mixer' beans, with 'posh' stuff, like Wogan, etc. So the Lavazza is only for mixing purposes. Grant has been using Segafredo.
I add a small amount of the above, simply to ensure that there is some Arabica and/or Robusta in the mix [improves crema, IME], as well as quality African beans (or whatever) with the 'posh' stuff:)
Marco.
Lol, no... No backlash, dude. Remember that Granty and moi like to combine basic 'mixer' beans, with 'posh' stuff, like Wogan, etc. So the Lavazza is only for mixing purposes. Grant has been using Segafredo.
I add a small amount of the above, simply to ensure that there is some Arabica and/or Robusta in the mix [improves crema, IME], as well as quality African beans (or whatever) with the 'posh' stuff:)
Marco.
indeed, i use only about 15% of filler.. it aids crema production without altering flavour
Yup, exactly why use it. I've tried using 'posh' beans on their own (as no doubt you have), without a 'filler', and results are always worse, no matter how good the 'posh' beans are:)
For me, for the best espresso, you need a small percentage of Robusta and/or Arabica in the mix!
Marco.
Yup, exactly why use it. I've tried using 'posh' beans on their own (as no doubt you have), without a 'filler', and results are always worse, no matter how good the 'posh' beans are:)
For me, for the best espresso, you need a small percentage of Robusta and/or Arabica in the mix!
Marco.
too much robusta and it gets bitter, but a smallish % and it adds to the flavour and aids the crema production. again if just making espresso with a top end machine you can do it without, although i would say it wont be as good, but when making the likes of flat white or capachino then robusta in the mix is beneficial
Yup, exactly why use it. I've tried using 'posh' beans on their own (as no doubt you have), without a 'filler', and results are always worse, no matter how good the 'posh' beans are:)
For me, for the best espresso, you need a small percentage of Robusta and/or Arabica in the mix!
Marco.A bit like cutting A grade coke, dude.
Put it this way, when it's A grade, you wake up the next day and know you had one of the best evenings of your life. You remember it all with fondness a decade or two later. And even though it's the morning after, you feel immortal. And the feeling remains for the rest of the day.
I find the best way these days to keep track of things is to eliminate as many variables as possible by rejecting anything that is single producer that isn't up to par for the money.
Mixes do introduce too much complexity and variability to come to definite conclusions. But if you are into it ignore what I say. I was into it, as you know.
All I am saying is I think you might change your mind given time.
I wouldn't know re coke.. Only coke I have is zero sugar.
As for blending, well its been going on for centuries.
too much robusta and it gets bitter, but a smallish % and it adds to the flavour and aids the crema production. again if just making espresso with a top end machine you can do it without, although i would say it wont be as good, but when making the likes of flat white or capachino then robusta in the mix is beneficial
Exactly my experience:)
Marco.
A bit like cutting A grade coke, dude.
Put it this way, when it's A grade, you wake up the next day and know you had one of the best evenings of your life. You remember it all with fondness a decade or two later. And even though it's the morning after, you feel immortal. And the feeling remains for the rest of the day.
I find the best way these days to keep track of things is to eliminate as many variables as possible by rejecting anything that is single producer that isn't up to par for the money.
Mixes do introduce too much complexity and variability to come to definite conclusions. But if you are into it ignore what I say. I was into it, as you know.
All I am saying is I think you might change your mind given time.
Lol... What are you like?:D
Sure, I never rule anything out, but for the moment that's how I like to do things:)
Marco.
Lol... What are you like?:D
Sure, I never rule anything out, but for the moment that's how I like to do things:)
Marco.Merely suppositional, dude, to make a point;)
Seemed like a cool post after a few glasses of red:D
Indeed....:eyebrows:
Marco.
Any medium roast of good quality coffee will do ,in this case 1 pound 11.8oz. or 788g. for $5.99. Thats 240 6oz. cups from one can! In a large French press dose the job for me. 1 heaping table spoon per mug,the press makes 3 mugs.:eek:
I have 3 mugs a day every day. Nosheen drinks tea so the press was perfect for me. I drink my coffee black,never anything in it. Barista's always repeat "just black coffee"? me; yes please.
I stay away from dark roasted beans,they have less caffeine and can be bitter even at $16.00 per pound.
Negative positivity.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201206/636d6c066bbfb0d988997edbe7dc8bfc.jpg
Interesting... The top looks somewhat like a soufflé:eyebrows:
Marco.
From earlier...
Espresso to Cappuccino, then some nice JAMMY toast, for the Grantster:D:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/xum0IT.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/T0wDQG.jpg[/URL]
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/R4KJ2K.jpg
Noice... That Deluxe strawberry jam, from Lidl, btw, it the biz. And Tiptree do some PROPA marmalade - just look at those lovely chunks of orange peel!:)
Marco.
You normally comment on my toast, Granty! Wossup - you no likey?:D
Marco.
just saw it. ive some orange spread hear too.. might be tiptree.. yup it looks nice
Interesting... The top looks somewhat like a soufflé:eyebrows:
Marco.Yeah I stirred it with a teaspoon to blend all the milk in with the coffee. Then used the very last of the milk to do the +/-.
I'm not claiming talent here:D
From earlier...
Espresso to Cappuccino, then some nice JAMMY toast, for the Grantster:D:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/xum0IT.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/T0wDQG.jpg[/URL]
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/R4KJ2K.jpg
Noice... That Deluxe strawberry jam, from Lidl, btw, it the biz. And Tiptree do some PROPA marmalade - just look at those lovely chunks of orange peel!:)
Marco.Dr Barrista sez: I would use a much bigger shot for that amount of milk.
Looks too pale for a cappuccino.
Lol - trust me it wasn't - very rich and tasty. Two shots of espresso is plenty in that cup... Cappuccino isn't supposed to be strong [traditionally in Italy] - just a bit more so than a latte. It's the lighting making it look 'pale':D
Marco.
i'd keep it running til half full personally then add milk
Lol - trust me it wasn't - very rich and tasty. Two shots of espresso is plenty in that cup... Cappuccino isn't supposed to be strong [traditionally in Italy] - just a bit more so than a latte. It's the lighting making it look 'pale':D
Marco.Nevermind come round to my new pad and my Barrista will train you propa.
https://youtu.be/tOjJ2BhKCnw
Dr Barrista sez: I would use a much bigger shot for that amount of milk.
Looks too pale for a cappuccino.
Would you like some toast with your jam?
Nevermind come round to my new pad and my Barrista will train you propa.
https://youtu.be/tOjJ2BhKCnw
Lol - I don't need a barista to train me how to make a cappuccino. I'm Italian, so I *know* what a cappuccino should taste like, for ITALIANS in ITALY!:ner::D
I've also been drinking them for the best part of 50 years...
That's not to say I wouldn't also like it made differently for a change [either by your 'barista' or you, lol], but I'm normally a traditionalist, so enjoy my food and drink served in an authentic and traditional way:)
Marco.
Would you like some toast with your jam?
:lolsign:
I deliberately zoomed in and highlighted the jammiest bits, just for Grant!:eyebrows:
Marco.
i'd keep it running til half full personally then add milk
Yeah I know you enjoy it like that mate, and that's cool, but that's not how it's done in Italy:)
Can you imagine how much it would cost cafes and restaurants, and what they'd have to charge to make a profit, if they put that much espresso inside a cappuccino?:eek:
Marco.
Lol - I don't need a barista to train me how to make a cappuccino. I'm Italian, so I *know* what a cappuccino should taste like, for ITALIANS in ITALY!:ner::D
I've also been drinking them for the best part of 50 years...
That's not to say I wouldn't also like it made differently for a change [either by your 'barista' or you, lol], but I'm normally a traditionalist, so enjoy my food and drink served in an authentic and traditional way:)
Marco.Hm. I've never considered the Italians to either grow or make the best coffee.
I know they are keen on it, but that's irrelevant. The respect simply goes to the producers of the beans. Whatever style you wish to serve it is a personal choice.
Lol, yes I know, but that's not what I mean!:D
Italian coffee isn't necessarily the best in the world, but that's not the point. The point is, Cappuccino is an Italian form of coffee, so Italians enjoy it a *certain way* - and that certain way isn't too strong...
It's a milky coffee, a little stronger than a latte, that's all, but nowhere near as strong as Grant and you like your milky coffee. Therefore, what I'm referring to isn't about which form of coffee is best, but rather what equates to a traditional Italian cappuccino., as that's what I drink.
Alles Klar, Amigo?:)
Marco.
Well, they don't even grow coffee, but qui, je comprend.
They make pretty coffee machines,.though.
I don't regard my coffee as strong, generally. Don't forget I drink it mostly as a morning driving to work drink generally as a double shot in a thermos. A bit stronger than a Costa, but not much.
My cups can look rich but it's just one bottomless portafilter producing a truckload of crema from decent beans. That said it is about £2K worth of coffee making kit so decent results are to be expected.
I still maintain, though, that your cappuccino looks weak in that shot. Definitely weaker than the average of cappuccinos I have experienced over a number of decades.
If you don't agree, fine:)
Lol - I told you it was the light/camera angle that made it look 'pale', and it *definitely* wasn't weak! Who tasted the fucker? Not you!:ner::ner::D;)
I wasn't implying that your coffee was strong; simply stronger than mine, or indeed your average cappuccino in any coffee shop I've ever been in, either here or in Italy.
There were two DOUBLE shots of strong espresso in that cup, which the camera angle makes look less (and also the cup bigger) than it actually is (partly the problem in terms of this discussion), so there's no way that any commercial premises, needing to make the required profit, is going to put more than two double shots of espresso in one cup, when making a cappuccino!
Anyway, best leave it there, daftee, as there's no argument to 'win':)
Marco.
In the nicest way, take some, dude!
Soz - what's that supposed to mean?:scratch:
Marco.
Well just that you do criticise a lot, but when under critique, do not respond so well to it.
I remember a long critique by yourself on the colour of my coffee and I went to work on it to find out why.
It no biggie, dude. Don't worry about it. It's just something I have thought about your posts quite frequently.
Lol - and you ALWAYS want to be right/know best, and are *super-competitive*!:ner::ner: As I said about the food thread, it's not a bloody competition, and neither is this!
Trust me, I have ZERO problem with being critiqued, IF the person responsible has a point and I consider it justified. You're entitled to your opinion, which is fine, but that's all it is, Justin.
The problem is, you think that you know better and are seeking to 'educate' me on something you're not qualified to educate me on, specifically: how to make a traditional Italian cappuccino, for an Italian. That's what pissed me off. If I'd thought your point was valid, I'd have accepted it, no problem, but on this occasion it wasn't.
With respect, I'm Italian and have been drinking cappuccino for the best part of 50 years, so *I know* what one should taste like, regardless of whether it meets your requirements or not - which btw are absolutely fine and I respect, but it's a personal taste thing, that's all, nothing else.
I've told you already that the reason the coffee looked 'pale' was because of the light (pics of other people's coffees here have suffered from the same problem before), and that it didn't taste weak, as I was the one who drank it, not you. Therefore, when I stated those facts, you should've simply accepted them, backed off, said 'no worries' and left it there.
But no... Because you're so competitive and don't like admitting that you're wrong [as in wrong about judging something you didn't taste, and how an Italian drinks cappuccino, not whether your idea of a 'perfect coffee' is better or worse than mine], you're still here arguing about it!:doh:
So, pretty please with bells on... Give it up, agree to disagree and move on, as I really don't want us to fall out - and that's precisely what will happen if you don't drop it now. Therefore don't feel that you need to respond. Ta!:)
Marco.
Filterlab
09-12-2020, 07:34
Man, do people really care this much about coffee? I have Tesco ground stuff in a jar with a blue lid, and it's perfect for me. :lol: :lol:
walpurgis
09-12-2020, 08:14
Man, do people really care this much about coffee?
I don't (much :)).
Man, do people really care this much about coffee? I have Tesco ground stuff in a jar with a blue lid, and it's perfect for me. [emoji38] [emoji38]Peasant [emoji23]
Filterlab
09-12-2020, 09:53
I don't (much :)).
Peasant [emoji23]
:lol:
Peasant [emoji23]Made me smile too:)
Man, do people really care this much about coffee? I have Tesco ground stuff in a jar with a blue lid, and it's perfect for me. :lol: :lol:
Apparently, the 'pink rim' is the one to have:eyebrows:
Marco.
Friday again. Coffee today.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201211/5e841d6acd6f892485ee0a6ee61b9129.jpg
That's a nice one, mate... I've just enjoyed another weak, pale cappuccino:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/VPAQz0.jpg
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/JITBOn.jpg
:D:eyebrows:
Marco.
I heard it was the light...:D:)
Haha, no it was DA BELLS, DA BELLS...:eyebrows:
Marco.
A reliable telltale sign of how rich coffee is, is seeing how much it sticks to the cup after it's been drunk, especially around the edges of the cup...
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/924/0c2P4F.jpg
:cool:
Marco.
Careful or I'll show you mine :eyebrows:
Anyway that's just the choccy...
LOL
Not on the edges of the cup it isn't, daftee. That's pure coffee. The chocolate just floats on top [aside from the stuff at the top on one side of the cup, left from it being drunk], as indeed you can see by the remnants of chocolate present, on top of the foam at the bottom of the cup!:ner:
Plus it's clearly a different colour:)
Marco.
I was joking. Hence the LOL.
Salted caramel Florentines and coffee.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201212/a889eddd0906003dac0b52fe9bed57f1.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201212/1aef322a61ea0afb7b3a2373f30c1497.jpg
Nice, did you make the biccies?:)
Marco.
Hot chocolate today for a change, topped with marshmallows and sprinkled with Cadburys Flake...
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/XCaxGj.jpg
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/gav20P.jpg
Noice...:cool:
Marco.
Lol - thanks... Can you guess which bit Del liked best?:D
Marco.
Lol - thanks... Can you guess which bit Del liked best?:D
Marco.
the mallows but better scorched:ner:
Lol, specifically which mallows? Just to see how much you've been paying attention, lol. Does she prefer pink more than white, or vice vera?:eyebrows:
Marco.
Zoidburg
14-12-2020, 18:36
A pre Xmas present to ourselves, arrived last week.
Very impressed with it so far, Coffee has never tasted so good! https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201214/170b77095b6e9b108f3bcb5b1d4e9f57.jpg
Sent from my Redmi Note 9 Pro using Tapatalk
Fantasmo.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201214/8511020f0f0ad09af04259e9a51af91d.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201214/6426bc7f05b7ce422aa9c74f9277ade1.jpg
A pre Xmas present to ourselves, arrived last week.
Very impressed with it so far, Coffee has never tasted so good! https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201214/170b77095b6e9b108f3bcb5b1d4e9f57.jpg
Sent from my Redmi Note 9 Pro using TapatalkLooks like my machine... A Sage
Zoidburg
15-12-2020, 06:51
Looks like my machine... A SageYes it is, bought mainly as it looks well made and not plasticy plus it seemed to get a lot of decent reviews. Got a good black Friday deal for it via amazon too.
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Zoidburg
15-12-2020, 07:50
My morning brewhttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201215/b7348cba68d0fb25ebd99523caff4570.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201215/7a3f4cd5e4926c1703f4d68306ba752d.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201215/1882589ad31ad430f4c169877938bc5d.jpg
Sent from my Redmi Note 9 Pro using Tapatalk
Nice buy, Ben. The Sage is a great machine, which Grant uses to superb effect! If I hadn't wanted a Smeg, 'cos I'm a smeggy kinda guy lol:eyebrows: I'd also have gone for the Sage:)
How are you using it, though? If you're serious about your coffee, there's a lot you need to know to get the most from the machine you've invested in. Have you got a proper tamper (not the plastic thing that often comes with new machines), and what are you using to grind your beans?
A cheap electric grinder, won't cut it, as it'll burn the beans, making the coffee bitter, and you also have to get the grind consistency right.
I'm not sure how you made the coffee you've just posted pics of, or whether any milk was added, but you should be getting much more crema than that and an altogether richer espresso, all of which will happen once you learn a few tricks!:cool:
Marco.
Fantasmo.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201214/8511020f0f0ad09af04259e9a51af91d.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201214/6426bc7f05b7ce422aa9c74f9277ade1.jpg
Interesting chocolate:)
Marco.
Nice buy, Ben. The Sage is a great machine, which Grant uses to superb effect! If I hadn't wanted a Smeg, 'cos I'm a smeggy kinda guy lol:eyebrows: I'd also have gone for the Sage:)
How are you using it, though? If you're serious about your coffee, there's a lot you need to know to get the most from the machine you've invested in. Have you got a proper tamper (not the plastic thing that often comes with new machines), and what are you using to grind your beans?
A cheap electric grinder, won't cut it, as it'll burn the beans, making the coffee bitter, and you also have to get the grind consistency right.
I'm not sure how you made the coffee you've just posted pics of, or whether any milk was added, but you should be getting much more crema than that and an altogether richer espresso, all of which will happen once you learn a few tricks!:cool:
Marco.
the tamper with the sage is quite good, but can be bettered. grind looks a bit rough and clean up all the bits of coffee on portafilter before putting it in, in case you didnt. a little artists paint brush is ideal, or the grounds will damage the seal.:)
grind looks a bit rough...
Yeah, that's what I also thought. Needs to be quite a bit finer... No worries on the tamper, but I still think that investing in a quality dedicated one (and a distributor) is worth it, as of course even more so is a quality coffee-grinder.:)
Marco.
Interesting chocolate:)
Marco.It was fantasmo. Came free with a Christmas hamper my wife got given by her employer.
I liked the light reflection in the coffee shot:cool:
Zoidburg
15-12-2020, 13:11
Nice buy, Ben. The Sage is a great machine, which Grant uses to superb effect! If I hadn't wanted a Smeg, 'cos I'm a smeggy kinda guy lol:eyebrows: I'd also have gone for the Sage:)
How are you using it, though? If you're serious about your coffee, there's a lot you need to know to get the most from the machine you've invested in. Have you got a proper tamper (not the plastic thing that often comes with new machines), and what are you using to grind your beans?
A cheap electric grinder, won't cut it, as it'll burn the beans, making the coffee bitter, and you also have to get the grind consistency right.
I'm not sure how you made the coffee you've just posted pics of, or whether any milk was added, but you should be getting much more crema than that and an altogether richer espresso, all of which will happen once you learn a few tricks!:cool:
Marco.
Hi Marco,
Its all a big learning curve at the moment and il admit to not knowing how to get the best out of the Sage just yet. But what i will say is that even for a novice the coffee is already much better than our old pod machine so in that respect im happy so far.
The tamper that came with the sage is a metal one so im hoping that will be sufficient for the time being. Well spotted that we are currently using a cheap electric grinder, having spent an hour perusing this thread last night I may look to invest in a better quality one.
At present my coffee making technique is as follows
1. grind beans in grinder for 20 seconds.
2. fill coffee handle / holder thing with ground coffee and tamp down
3. fix into machine and press play, await expresso for 30 seconds or so.
4. froth milk in S/S jug and pour on top.
I am definitely interested in producing better end results so any top tips would be more than welcome
coffee this afternoon. Had tea this morning.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201215/131ad7a5ecdaa54739d2a44ae0a3f079.jpg
Hi Marco,
Its all a big learning curve at the moment and il admit to not knowing how to get the best out of the Sage just yet. But what i will say is that even for a novice the coffee is already much better than our old pod machine so in that respect im happy so far.
The tamper that came with the sage is a metal one so im hoping that will be sufficient for the time being. Well spotted that we are currently using a cheap electric grinder, having spent an hour perusing this thread last night I may look to invest in a better quality one.
At present my coffee making technique is as follows
1. grind beans in grinder for 20 seconds.
2. fill coffee handle / holder thing with ground coffee and tamp down
3. fix into machine and press play, await expresso for 30 seconds or so.
4. froth milk in S/S jug and pour on top.
I am definitely interested in producing better end results so any top tips would be more than welcome
I use one of these for grinding - no idea about whether it is better for the beans than my old Delonghi electric, but far less mess (the grind used to get really charged up with static electricity and fly all over the place :doh:). Also there is a zen like state reached while grinding away, and the anticipation adds to the experience :):
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Kalita-Coffee-KH-3-Retro-Model/dp/B0006BLI2W (didn't pay that much though - price seems to have rocketed!)
I was really surprised how much better my coffee was using a decent tamper (and far easier to exert a decent pressure with this rather than the plastic one supplied with my Delongi coffee maker) - more of an effect on the flavour than the change of grinder imo:
https://www.delonghi.com/en-gb/dlsc058-coffee-tamper/p/DLSC058
Morning flat white.. The berrieshttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201216/20415e2a5e943d8866c84f3d963138b4.jpg
Hi Ben,
No worries, mate. It was a big learning curve for me too - and still is!:)
Your machine is capable of producing excellent results, so it's certainly worth trying to get the most from it. Everyone will have their own ideas of what's best or tips to give you, so these are simply my own, based on my experience, and not in any way definitive.
For me, it's *imperative* to get yourself a good grinder, with a wide range of variable adjustments, in order to find the perfect grind a) for the beans you're using, and b) your machine. Since Grant's got the same machine as you, although a different grinder, he may be able to advise on that.
But essentially, your cheapo grinder will have to go, if you're going to obtain the quality of results you're after. My advice would be that if you have the time and want to save some money, then go for a good hand-grinder, rather than electric, but it depends on your budget. There are lots of great electric grinders our there, but you'll pay for the privilege of getting great results, simply at the press of a button!;)
Therefore, if you don't mind using a bit of elbow grease, try a hand coffee grinder, such as the Lido 2 that I use (or even what Guy's bought). Here's an interesting and informative article on the subject: https://coffeeblog.co.uk/best-manual-coffee-grinders-hand-grinders-in-the-uk/
Next, although the metal tamper that comes with the Lido is ok, investing in a better one will certainly improve results. I like using a calibrated tamper, as it ensures that the same pressure is applied consistently, thus so is the strength of the coffee obtained consistent (as tamping down harder or softer impacts on how the coffee is extracted and how strong it will be), and which is difficult to achieve otherwise.
This is a good one, or anything else of its ilk: https://www.amazon.co.uk/LuxHaus-49mm-Calibrated-Espresso-Tamper/dp/B01MYGT5IO/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1F2I3MZ4XZOHC&dchild=1&keywords=luxhaus+tamper&qid=1608122940&sprefix=luxhaus%2Caps%2C158&sr=8-1
However, you'll need to measure the diameter of your filter cup (the round metal thing that you fill with coffee grinds), as they vary wildly, and so need to ensure that the tamper you buy will fit. Again, as Grant uses a Sage, he'll be able to tell you how big it is in mm.
Also, if want to achieve high levels of consistency, then measuring the amount of coffee, in grams, which produces the strength you like best is a good thing to do, so you'll need some type of weighing device. Then simply experiment with how much ground coffee you fill the filter with gives you the best results (basically, keep adding more until you hit the sweet spot), and weigh that amount - then simply use that exact amount every time you make coffee.
The same applies with milk, when making milky coffee. You need to know how much milk to use, given the size of the cup you're using, and which provides the best results with the amount of espresso you're adding, then measure that quantity and fill your milk jug with exactly that amount to froth. All this, of course, depends on how keen you are to obtain the best results and greatest consistency, but those are some of the things I do.
Also, always warm the portafiller (handled extension that holds the filter cup), prior to extracting coffee, by passing some hot water through it from the machine, and also warming up the cup you're going to drink from with some boiled water. You'll get better crema that way, and also your coffee will stay warmer for longer!
Hope that helps... Next I can give you some tips on how to froth the milk to get the creamiest consistency, without 'bubbly foam', which you don't want (Grant was a great help here).
In that respect, you should always use the freshest whole milk, not semi-skimmed. Then there's the subject of milk temperature gauges, ensuring that the milk is frothed/heated to the optimum temperature, or you can do as Grant does, and judge it by hand, feeling how hot the jug gets - but I have sissy-soft hands and can't hold hot things for long!:D
More later - if I haven't bored you to death already!!
Marco.
Hi Marco,
Its all a big learning curve at the moment and il admit to not knowing how to get the best out of the Sage just yet. But what i will say is that even for a novice the coffee is already much better than our old pod machine so in that respect im happy so far.
The tamper that came with the sage is a metal one so im hoping that will be sufficient for the time being. Well spotted that we are currently using a cheap electric grinder, having spent an hour perusing this thread last night I may look to invest in a better quality one.
At present my coffee making technique is as follows
1. grind beans in grinder for 20 seconds.
2. fill coffee handle / holder thing with ground coffee and tamp down
3. fix into machine and press play, await expresso for 30 seconds or so.
4. froth milk in S/S jug and pour on top.
I am definitely interested in producing better end results so any top tips would be more than welcome
Any thoughts, Ben?:)
Marco.
Arr it be Jim ladhttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201218/49d05bcd7ff5f6a662a619cf224eba12.jpg
Weak latte.
Last of the Josh Egglestone. Need to order coffee TODAY. NOW. BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE!
:)https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201218/181d04603ca36092e8c14df349783da1.jpg
Weak latte.
Last of the Josh Egglestone. Need to order coffee TODAY. NOW. BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE!
:)https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201218/181d04603ca36092e8c14df349783da1.jpg
Brilliant how you got the reindeer flying across a starry sky :)
Brilliant how you got the reindeer flying across a starry sky :)Yeah it is a complex one.
I love how it came out.
Simple really. A super cheap homogenised crime to the word milk dropped high into an inadequate strength of very high quality coffee whilst dropping the height of the milk jug shaking it all the way down at at almost constant but ultimately slowing rate of decent.
With a flick of the jug to create the dots.
Easy.
Or a random act of nature;)
Just like having a chug in a teacup:D;)
Marco.
New Wogan packaging. I only ordered that yesterday and it was here in less than 24 hours!
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201219/0ac1de7c0349e0b4fb81d3d2b515e099.jpg
Just like having a chug in a teacup:D;)
Marco.
You "chug" reindeers :youtheman:
You "chug" reindeers :youtheman:If he does it into his coffee and drinks it then the mind boggles...
New Wogan packaging. I only ordered that yesterday and it was here in less than 24 hours!
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201219/0ac1de7c0349e0b4fb81d3d2b515e099.jpgGood choices
£31.50 including postage (free over £30) for 2KG of coffee of that qualiy really is a bargain.
You have to do KG bags for that, though. But so what? Just do 250g in the hopper and swap to another one afterwards, keeping your hoard in the freezer
ive some coffee on order.. 3 at 500gm and one at 250gm.. hoping it comes before xmas and lockdown.
If he does it into his coffee and drinks it then the mind boggles...
Classic Christmas cocktail, mate, called a 'Lapland Lush':D
Must give Wogan a go at some point, as their stuff does look good. However, I've discovered some rather nice beans sold in our local Polish supermarket, and for not a lot of dosh, which are giving me superb results!:eyebrows:
Marco.
No milk so espresso time, which I only very rarely do.
This is the Honduran above. My policy for espresso is NEVER make it with average beans. It will be shite. Only good plus to excellent coffee can make espresso that is enjoyable.
This was very nice, but there is never enough of it, lest you go shot after shot of the stuff, in which case you may get somewhat high.
You know if your grind is good to some extent if your crema looks clean on the side of the cup i.e. no black bits.
Shot shows comparison in size to the usual latte cup:D
Plus two coffee books I was given as a present but haven't read yet. I think they are the same book, one more recent than the other. Bit odd, but hey.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201221/6eac258137e20465ac53151ae5158577.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201221/abb157d28a30b838dc711ee3ee098281.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201221/cd2ef48f36f46607725f38ae3f7a1e6c.jpg
Classic Christmas cocktail, mate, called a 'Lapland Lush':D
Must give Wogan a go at some point, as their stuff does look good. However, I've discovered some rather nice beans sold in our local Polish supermarket, and for not a lot of dosh, which are giving me superb results!:eyebrows:
Marco.Well if I come round and you offer me coffee I'm doing a Nancy Reagan on you:D
Zoidburg
21-12-2020, 11:34
Thanks for the comments Marco,
Still taking it all in but have tried grinding the beans using a old kenwood burr coffee bean attachment before spending more money in another grinder.
Still experimenting but things are improving gradually https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201221/763a71816eff9efe0b1c012971d6901c.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201221/5ed66c6399fb7d9be2054adc957c4094.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201221/744c757bd2d29833d1974ced80e2372a.jpg
Sent from my Redmi Note 9 Pro using Tapatalk
Zoidburg
21-12-2020, 11:40
Just drinking the newly ground beans from the old burr grinder and there's a deff improvement in flavour, much less bitterness which is great
Sent from my Redmi Note 9 Pro using Tapatalk
Wowser I remember that Kenwood bean grinder we had one as a family many decades ago, long before I was really into coffee. We used it for cafetierres.
Enjoy.
I have just been watching a video about why Italians don't drink coffee after 11am.
The theory is they are lactose intolerant, and more so in the South. Why? Because milk doesn't keep well in hotter climates, so over the generations they haven't evolved to be good at coping with it.
Interesting.
https://youtu.be/7mIcIVCnTrY
Haven't watched the video, but it's not a case that they don't drink coffee after 11am, but specifically milky coffee, namely cappuccino. After that, it's pretty much espresso all the way, which you'll see if you go to any Italian cafe, and of course which contains no milk:)
Btw, that was a textbook espresso earlier, with great crema! Liked you're books, too. Nice one:thumbsup:
Marco.
Yeah they do say no cappuccino after 11. It's not just Italians. 65% of the world is lactose intolerant.
The books were a nice gesture but unfortunately I haven't learnt much from them. Oh well. Been in and around Bristol's surrounding areas too long!
The lactose intolerant thing is a new one on me, but interesting (and I'm sure relevant). Doesn't apply to anyone I know though, apart from Del, and she isn't Italian:D
After 11am though, you'll still see plenty of folks having a macchiato, cortado or even affogato [which is gorgeous], but never a cappuccino or latte, unless they're tourists!;)
Marco.
Interesting. I am trying to remember my time in Rome, but it is dominated on first thoughts by Italian policemen trying to impress the chicks LOL:)
Beyond the beauty of the place in parts, that is:D
Lol - most Italians practice the tradition of 'La Bella Figura': https://www.lagazzettaitaliana.com/history-culture/9151-la-bella-figura-the-italian-way
I'm just a tramp though, so don't bother;)
Marco.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50750633951_9e61944bb3_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kjEgmc)
That's a really nice one, Grant. One of your best ever, IMO:)
Btw, I'm getting really good results with this stuff, which I discovered in our local Polish supermarket: super-tasty, super-smooth and makes great crema:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/gKPvHp.jpg
Details here: https://www.jacobscoffee.ge/en/
Buy here: https://www.scotbycoffee.co.uk/german-coffee-beans/14-jacobs-kronung-caffe-crema-whole-beans-1000g-7622300359942.html
Honestly, highly recommened, great value, and defo worth a punt, as 'mixers'!:cool:
Marco.
That's a really nice one, Grant. One of your best ever, IMO:)
Btw, I'm getting really good results with this stuff, which I discovered in our local Polish supermarket: super-tasty, super-smooth and makes great crema:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/gKPvHp.jpg
Details here: https://www.jacobscoffee.ge/en/
Buy here: https://www.scotbycoffee.co.uk/german-coffee-beans/14-jacobs-kronung-caffe-crema-whole-beans-1000g-7622300359942.html
Honestly, highly recommened, great value, and defo worth a punt, as 'mixers'!:cool:
Marco.
cheers.. not seen that one before. just had my coffee order delivered from wogan.. wasnt really expecting it this side of xmas tbh.
Xmas timehttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201225/04d02ee77d05f727ca0d5019c04b4f24.jpg
Zoidburg
27-12-2020, 13:31
Bought a better grinder today so need to experiment further for the ideal brew. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201227/fd5021dc7b76fb8d23df7bcb58928976.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201227/c143985c05c749a71a062a040b3a7847.jpg
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Is that a Sage grinder, Ben? Nice one:)
It's a matter of getting the right grind for your machine and choice of beans. IME, for espresso machines, erring on the finer side of things is best, but not too fine. If the grind is too course, it's really affects the quality of the coffee produced.
Marco.
Zoidburg
27-12-2020, 14:18
Yes it's a sage dose control pro, write ups seem reasonably positive and though it was a bit more than I was hoping to spend it should provide decent results. Probably up half the night tonight after multiple trial runs all afternoon[emoji16]
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Good stuff, mate. A helpful guide, in terms of getting the right grind consistency is to buy a small packet of ground espresso coffee from the supermarket (get decent stuff and you can always mix some of it in later with your own mix) and use it to gauge the how coarse or fine your grind is in comparison.
It won't be perfect, but it'll certainly get you in the right ballpark, then just refine things from there:cool:
It's worth persevering with the grind, as IME it's *vital* in order to get the best results. Don't be afraid to tamp down nice and firmly too, as it'll give you a nice rich coffee with good crema:)
Scroll back a couple of pages and look at the results Justin produced earlier with his espresso. That's the colour you're aiming for and the thickness of crema!
Marco.
Zoidburg
27-12-2020, 16:03
Good stuff, mate. A helpful guide, in terms of getting the right grind consistency is to buy a small packet of ground espresso coffee from the supermarket (get decent stuff and you can always mix some of it in later with your own mix) and use it to gauge the how coarse or fine your grind is in comparison.
It won't be perfect, but it'll certainly get you in the right ballpark, then just refine things from there:cool:
It's worth persevering with the grind, as IME it's *vital* in order to get the best results. Don't be afraid to tamp down nice and firmly too, as it'll give you a nice rich coffee with good crema:)
Scroll back a couple of pages and look at the results Justin produced earlier with his espresso. That's the colour you're aiming for and the thickness of crema!
Marco.That's a great idea il do that tomorrow cheers Marco.
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That's a great idea il do that tomorrow cheers Marco.
Sent from my Redmi Note 9 Pro using TapatalkBear in mind that the colour of that espresso is quite light as the beans weren't dark roast.
Shot of the beans I used below. Not in natural light but it'll do.
Wet bits are just bean oil.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201227/54927c9839de54a8da80e73bfd60fd68.jpg
That's a great idea il do that tomorrow cheers Marco.
No worries. Let us know how you get on:)
Marco.
4th day of Xmas... [emoji23]
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201228/221922787f5a7689e87fd9d1f7c2eaf6.jpg
Zoidburg
28-12-2020, 09:46
The new grinder is very easy to use and results have immediately improvedhttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201228/703ef77cbab3189477e0b1a319164f00.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201228/29b575257f0692390c0820a5a7badbd8.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201228/2e844f9a8c612841d59211c9c72abf8a.jpg
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4th day of Xmas... [emoji23]
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201228/221922787f5a7689e87fd9d1f7c2eaf6.jpg
Looks like a Sahara sun!:)
Marco.
The new grinder is very easy to use and results have immediately improvedhttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201228/703ef77cbab3189477e0b1a319164f00.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201228/29b575257f0692390c0820a5a7badbd8.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201228/2e844f9a8c612841d59211c9c72abf8a.jpg
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Oh yes, that's much better, Ben... Bet you can taste it, too!:)
Marco.
Zoidburg
28-12-2020, 09:58
Oh yes, that's much better, Ben... Bet you can taste it, too!:)
Marco.Yep, pleased with that, much richer fuller flavour to it.
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Does look good.
Those Union beans can be quite good.
In my opinion the best £200 odd quid burr grinders get close to the best burr grinders cost no object.
kirstysdad
29-12-2020, 11:24
I'm late to this party, and I can't compete with y'all's fancy machines and grinders, but for your enjoyment I offer my cutest wee hob-top espresso maker...:eyebrows:
https://i.postimg.cc/0zr9Y9yY/IMG-1311.jpg (https://postimg.cc/0zr9Y9yY)https://i.postimg.cc/BLzTvSbm/IMG-1310.jpg (https://postimg.cc/BLzTvSbm)
kirstysdad
29-12-2020, 11:25
https://i.postimg.cc/mkL88hsW/IMG-1310.jpg (https://postimg.cc/BLzTvSbm)
Interesting, Sandy. What is it exactly?:)
Marco.
kirstysdad
29-12-2020, 11:40
Interesting, Sandy. What is it exactly?:)
Marco.
Water in the bottom, coffee in the funnel, like a Moka, coffee bubbles up the copper pipe...https://i.postimg.cc/g2HrPJ9T/IMG-1311.jpg (https://postimg.cc/0zr9Y9yY)
kirstysdad
29-12-2020, 11:43
Realised that there's nothing to give scale- that's a standard espresso cup. Nice wee Bialetti.
Coffee on mysterious new device.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201230/e00c9686170ddb19809d562b995dd178.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201230/044dd4d5264376f86719433dfed830db.jpg
Device and coffee both looking lovely :thumbsup:
Coffee on mysterious new device.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201230/e00c9686170ddb19809d562b995dd178.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201230/044dd4d5264376f86719433dfed830db.jpg
nice.. is that a Pontevecchio
Nope.
It's an aarke Carbonator 3 soda water maker.
https://www.aarke.com/uk/
My wife was asking for a Sodastream for Christmas so rather than buy her a lump of plastic I thought I'd get her something that will last and that looks nice. Will complement the Rocket coffee machine/grinder well I think.
She will use it a lot she drinks gallons of carbonated water.
Really surprised it turned up today not supposed to ship until Jan.
Nope.
It's an aarke Carbonator 3 soda water maker.
https://www.aarke.com/uk/
My wife was asking for a Sodastream for Christmas so rather than buy her a lump of plastic I thought I'd get her something that will last and that looks nice. Will complement the Rocket coffee machine/grinder well I think.
She will use it a lot she drinks gallons of carbonated water.
Really surprised it turned up today not supposed to ship until Jan.
oh right.. ive been looking at a sodastream.. not seen that one.. any good.. let me know.
oh right.. ive been looking at a sodastream.. not seen that one.. any good.. let me know.Will do. It uses sodastream gas cylinders, but my Amazon order doesn't show up til Monday.
Bummer.
Last of yearhttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201231/cd73528df460bf36caa7cbe99069867e.jpg
Zoidburg
31-12-2020, 09:59
Another good cuppa this morning, the new grinder certainly helps achieve consistently good results, it just makes things simpler and easier. When we bought it I was slightly skeptical especially given the price but now I'd certainly recommend it to anyone starting out rather than the £20 grinder we initially went with. No bitterness any more just interesting coffee flavours.
The Sainsbury's kenyan beans shown are prob my favourite so far. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201231/16f61497ef5e3fcdac5988d9e2c77de6.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201231/fd4c8d8fe23ca632bf6308d6b37482e3.jpg
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kirstysdad
31-12-2020, 16:03
Blinking elitists! With yer big fancy expensive machines! My wee dribbler doesn't even get acknowledged ya bunch a big show affs! Not size that matters! My wee yin can spurt oot a good brew for feck all money and with the saving I can buy more coffee! Bawbags the lot o' ye! :ner:
Blinking elitists! With yer big fancy expensive machines! My wee dribbler doesn't even get acknowledged ya bunch a big show affs! Not size that matters! My wee yin can spurt oot a good brew for feck all money and with the saving I can buy more coffee! Bawbags the lot o' ye! :ner:I loved your old stove top.
Blinking elitists! With yer big fancy expensive machines! My wee dribbler doesn't even get acknowledged ya bunch a big show affs! Not size that matters! My wee yin can spurt oot a good brew for feck all money and with the saving I can buy more coffee! Bawbags the lot o' ye! :ner:
Lol - shut it, ya zoomer, that duznae sound like a Welsh accent tae me!:ner:
In any case, ah hud a wee Bialetti before ah goat ma Smegster, so ah know how gid they ur. The vast majority of Italian households now still use them. Wrap that aroon yer wee walloper:D
Marco.
kirstysdad
31-12-2020, 19:23
Aye, right! Too late, too fekkin late ya perr a scunners. :pRight perr yes urr, perr a wally dugs. No piitin' ma walliper onywherr near onny machine Marco! Fekkin pervert tae think aboot it ye urr. Right wrang yin. An yer patters mince- :eyebrows: Didnae say ah wiz Welsh... Orrabest tae yiz a' (All the very best to you good gentlemen, delighted to make you acquaintance) Off to take my prescribed medication... :mental:
Haha, belter... So where aboots in Scotland ur ye fae, soda heid?:D
When o this Covid pish is over, ye'll need to pop roon for wee music sesh, as ye urnae far away - and am no talkin shooglin' aboot tae Jimmy Shand! :eyebrows:
Lang ma yer lum reek, ma man!:cool:
Marco.
kirstysdad
01-01-2021, 12:04
Haha, belter... So where aboots in Scotland ur ye fae, soda heid?:D
When o this Covid pish is over, ye'll need to pop roon for wee music sesh, as ye urnae far away - and am no talkin shooglin' aboot tae Jimmy Shand! :eyebrows:
Lang ma yer lum reek, ma man!:cool:
Marco.
Lang may yer puddin squeek! Jimmy Shand is it? I gie ye Jimmy Shand! Ye'll get Sydney Devine an' Lena Zavaroni an haud yer wheesht. Sounds the dugs bawz Marco-boy.:eek:
I fear that I have given myself away by returning to my native parlance... From the dear green place, of course :wave:
Lol - yer a maddy. Goat yur PM, will reply shortly:D
Marco.
Trying out a new coffee company, again based in Wales, as where possible, I like to support Welsh businesses and consume Welsh products: https://welshcoffee.com/best-coffee-beans/
They're purported to be top-notch and their coffee has won numerous awards, so we'll see how it goes. They roast their beans freshly to order once a week (every Thursday) and ship next day, so it doesn't get much fresher than that!:)
I've ordered a selection of their speciality single origin beans (scroll down), as they also sell them in smaller 250g bags: https://welshcoffee.com/welsh-coffee-online-shop/
Once I discover my favourites, I'll stick to them (in bigger bags), so looking forward to trying some different beans and will report my experiences here in due course:cool:
Marco.
Hi Marco, I would be interested to hear what you think - As you are looking at Welsh roasters, I would recommend "Poblado Coffi". Based in Snowdonia, excellent service and I really like their "Atu Litang", fair price and after a week or so the beans "calmed down" a bit (a little "acidic" at first), very smooth and full bodied coffee.
https://pobladocoffi.co.uk/products/sumatra-atu-lintang
Hi Guy,
I'll certainly let you know. I have high hopes for them. Yes I know of Poblado, and have used them on many occasions. Great quality coffee and great service, but just wanted to try something different this time:)
Marco.
oh right.. ive been looking at a sodastream.. not seen that one.. any good.. let me know.Yes Grant, it is good. Build quality reflects the price++. Very high quality item you'd feel proud to have bought.
Carbonation is as good as commercial I would say. But not immediately. The bubbles are too big. But a good rest in the fridge seems to work wonders, not only to chill the tap water, but to achieve the best carbonation.
That said we have excellent tap water here. An important factor.
Yes Grant, it is good. Build quality reflects the price++. Very high quality item you'd feel proud to have bought.
Carbonation is as good as commercial I would say. But not immediately. The bubbles are too big. But a good rest in the fridge seems to work wonders, not only to chill the tap water, but to achieve the best carbonation.
That said we have excellent tap water here. An important factor.That's good. Will put it on my list then. Cheers.
Coffee this morning was epic..
Phone caused a shadow but you get the ideahttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210106/3059f089e66bdf1f00f4b7ff5e6b84ba.jpg
Little Red Rooster.
Bit shit. Slightly cold. What's with the small bubbles?
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210107/bc612d5082cce16694e0280046e3425f.jpg
Yeah, but it still looks nice and rich/tasty to me, dude... And Grant's earlier was epic!:)
Marco.
Quadruple shot. Up all night. Intense. Right temperature.
Much better.
Aero evening, obviously.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210107/c66c7ac76f7ca89ac3a718fcc6cb5850.jpg
Yeah, but it still looks nice and rich/tasty to me, dude... And Grant's earlier was epic!:)
Marco.Every now and then that Granty boy pours a cup.
Not often. But sometimes;):)
A cold Saturday morning deserves coffee.. Hot Coffee. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210109/a1a7d99d8a0bffb16d93ac6fb7ad72bf.jpg
Ah coffee. God's little helperhttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210111/e4b78ba65cdcc1f777c0664e934e1eeb.jpg
Nice description, mate:)
Marco.
Ok, I said I'd post my findings when I'd sampled some new beans from the Welsh Coffee Company. I opted to try three different types, available in smaller 250g bags, eventually in order to find my favourite and stick with them, so once I've tried those, I'll move onto another three, and so forth. First up is some Columbian Las Galeras, shown here: https://welshcoffee.com/product/colombia-las-galeras/
And this is a cappuccino I enjoyed earlier today using solely those beans, which has probably been my nicest yet:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/924/2Grqm4.jpg
I have to say that these beans are simply OUTSTANDING! They're a lighter roast than I usually use, but produce a really smooth and intensely rich coffee, with a lovely dense and thick crema and no underlying or unpleasant, rather acrid bitterness, which is so often present in beans of a lesser quality or provenance.
Quite simply, these are top-notch coffee beans, roasted to perfection and supplied in limited quantities by a dedicated and passionate artisan coffee company [with I would hasten to add exemplary levels of customer service], and if this Columbian variety is typical of the quality of beans on offer, then I can't wait to try others from their range! Very highly recommended:cool:
Worth looking at the pictures here, many of which portray the company's dedication to supplying the finest beans for true coffee aficionados:
https://www.google.com/maps/uv?pb=!1s0x486e6e28f79b790d%3A0xf0bbf9e065888e50!3 m1!7e115!4shttps%3A%2F%2Flh5.googleusercontent.com %2Fp%2FAF1QipMfNnhUzibilIN7fW4rcGSDzBBBo3GHnh-I4aHt%3Dw143-h215-k-no!5swelsh%20coffee%20company%20-%20Google%20Search!15sCgIgAQ&imagekey=!1e10!2sAF1QipMfNnhUzibilIN7fW4rcGSDzBBBo 3GHnh-I4aHt&hl=en&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwj9_KOWi5ruAhXJiFwKHcqoDyMQoiowCnoECBsQA w
Marco.
Nice colour and plenty there for a good one
Beobloke
14-01-2021, 08:15
Can highly recommend these beans from Whittard that we’ve just finished. Quite a light roast but very smooth with good depth of flavour and a lovely, almost chocolatey finish.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210114/17695a6d6081ae9104cc52ce8626a7e5.jpg
Beobloke
14-01-2021, 08:15
Decent crema, too!
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210114/762e917e11f4e7e84c1fe0b7060964f5.jpg
Nice colour and plenty there for a good one
Cheers, mate. Honestly, this stuff's a different ball game!:)
Marco.
Decent crema, too!
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210114/762e917e11f4e7e84c1fe0b7060964f5.jpg
Is it the light though, Adam, as it looks a bit weak and rather pale... Or have you added a touch of milk? Even with a light roast, the crema should be thicker and deeper in color.
No doubt it'll taste good, though!:)
Marco.
P.S Just thought, I'm presuming you've got a proper pressurised espresso machine, and that's what was used to make the above coffee? If not, disregard what I've said.
Beobloke
14-01-2021, 13:47
P.S Just thought, I'm presuming you've got a proper pressurised espresso machine, and that's what was used to make the above coffee? If not, disregard what I've said.
Nope, I’ve got one of these:
https://www.delonghi.com/en-int/products/coffee/coffee-makers/bean-to-cup/primadonna-xs-deluxe-etam-36365m-0132215185
Much as I love a good coffee, I really cannot be arsed with the long-winded manual methods of making it that involve half a kitchen full of different gadgets, although I doff my cap to those of you who do!
I chuck the beans in the top, fill it with filtered water, select which style of coffee I fancy and it does the rest on its own!
Ah, that explains it then, as you'll never get proper crema without a pressurised espresso machine, just froth. Yeah, I know what you mean - to do it right you need a few gadgets, aside from the machine itself. I've got a whole side of the kitchen dedicated to making coffee/tea - and cocktails for the princess!:D
What do you use to grind your beans? I suspect you could upgrade things in that department, as how the beans are ground has a *MASSIVE* impact on the quality of the resulting coffee.
Marco.
Hi Marco, it's that bitterness that you refer to which I dislike in coffee - will give the "welsh coffee co" a look when I am running low on stocks (strange but I love bitterness in beer, time and place for everything I suppose :))
Ah, that explains it then, as you'll never get proper crema without a pressurised espresso machine, just froth. Yeah, I know what you mean - to do it right you need a few gadgets, aside from the machine itself. I've got a whole side of the kitchen dedicated to making coffee/tea - and cocktails for the princess!:D
What do you use to grind your beans? I suspect you could upgrade things in that department, as how the beans are ground has a *MASSIVE* impact on the quality of the resulting coffee.
Marco.
its a good machine.. an all in one i think. not sure which model but some are over a grand
Hi Marco, it's that bitterness that you refer to which I dislike in coffee - will give the "welsh coffee co" a look when I am running low on stocks (strange but I love bitterness in beer, time and place for everything I suppose :))
there are a miriad of potentials to bitter coffee. water temp, bean grind burn,,, list goes on.
Beobloke
14-01-2021, 18:29
What do you use to grind your beans? I suspect you could upgrade things in that department, as how the beans are ground has a *MASSIVE* impact on the quality of the resulting coffee.
Marco.
The machine grinds the beans as well. However, if it’s any consolation, though, it does have a fair range of grind settings and it took me a good couple of weeks of fiddling to arrive at the optimum one!
its a good machine.. an all in one i think. not sure which model but some are over a grandThat one is a grand. Better than the Smegster I would guess.
I'd like to play with something like that out of pure curiosity.
Hi Marco, it's that bitterness that you refer to which I dislike in coffee - will give the "welsh coffee co" a look when I am running low on stocks (strange but I love bitterness in beer, time and place for everything I suppose :))
Yup, indeed. With this Columbian blend at least, there's certainly no excess bitterness, just a lovely smooth taste, as I've described, so yes give them a go and see what you think:cool:
Marco.
The machine grinds the beans as well. However, if it’s any consolation, though, it does have a fair range of grind settings and it took me a good couple of weeks of fiddling to arrive at the optimum one!
Nice one, I'm unaware of your machine but it sounds good, even though it's not a proper espresso machine. The main thing is that you're happy with the results, so just enjoy them!:)
Marco.
its a good machine.. an all in one i think. not sure which model but some are over a grand
Noted, mate:)
Marco.
That one is a grand. Better than the Smegster I would guess.
Lol - "better" in what way? How can you judge something you've never used, either the De Longhi or the Smeg?
I guess it depends on what you're after, a proper, pressurised espresso machine, that makes real crema, as your machine, Grant's and mine does, which of course involves a fair bit of effort and some extra 'gadgets', as Adam alluded to, or something much more convenient that still makes good coffee and also grinds the beans.
The Smegster makes superb coffee, as you can clearly see, and I have an excellent hand-grinder [the Lido], plus plenty of time to fiddle [not not just THAT:eyebrows:], and rarely in a rush, so I'm delighted with it and won't be changing it until it breaks:cool:
Marco,.
Ha! Gotcha!
I did say 'I would guess'.
That said I own a really cheap Delonghi and it's surprisingly good for the money. So I do think it will be good. It might even be better than my Rocket but without having a play I dunno.
Ha! Gotcha!
I did say 'I would guess'.
:D Well. I would 'guess' that Rachel Riley is a better shag than Nicola Sturgeon, but I doubt I'll ever know!
I think I'm too much of a purist (and lover of the whole 'ritual' and hands-on approach involved in making proper espresso) to ever use an all-in-one machine. The best part of my morning is hand-grinding the beans in the Lido, as I find it rather therapeutic!:)
Marco.
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