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struth
01-08-2018, 15:39
Ah...Well, in terms of appearance anyway, that's the look I go for.

You haven't made any espressos for a while. See if you can make me one with a nice dense, thick yellowy-orange crema:)

Marco.

make one tomorrow

Marco
01-08-2018, 16:07
Excellent, old chap. I'll have the butler collect it around 3pm.

Marco.

struth
02-08-2018, 09:29
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180802/3860e6cb903cfaf9b9e39afcfe42fc88.jpg

Nicaragua Buenos aires

Marco
03-08-2018, 13:43
Oooh... YUM, YUM! Looks like I could almost stand a spoon up in that:eyebrows:

Did it taste as good as it looks?:)

Marco.

struth
03-08-2018, 13:54
wasnt bad.. i added some foam later tho:eek:

struth
03-08-2018, 14:42
Today's coffee is Kayton mtn

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180803/7f45d46b7b238a5377786b6d7a329609.jpg

Audio Al
03-08-2018, 15:15
My new bean stash arrived yesterday

Rwanda Cyato 1KG
Columbian Suarez 1KG

:)

struth
03-08-2018, 15:19
My new bean stash arrived yesterday

Rwanda Cyato 1KG
Columbian Suarez 1KG

:)

Got the Rwandan myself.. decent cup of coffee... not tried the Suarez

struth
04-08-2018, 14:36
A darker roast today tanzania Iyela aaa

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180804/7bdeea006973ffdfcf8d766dcdb0a95b.jpg

struth
05-08-2018, 09:34
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180805/bb5aa4a62d7df0e8e379a9780e06f853.jpg

The perfect latte. Enjoyed that one[emoji3]

struth
05-08-2018, 14:22
Afternoon attempt

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180805/6aa1c40e52faade6d14547579cffe8d8.jpg

struth
07-08-2018, 11:15
A rose by any other name would smell as sweet

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180807/49c17ed6d6d202b64d8440a72e808bd9.jpg

struth
10-08-2018, 17:06
First knight of Ethiopia

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180810/5f93e488a55b114ec667d7cbee5a537b.jpg

struth
12-08-2018, 10:46
Caramel coffee

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180812/bcdf9bd50d5a2c930ebc4f3e4f84e8fe.jpg

struth
13-08-2018, 15:07
A restorative

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180813/2901468682f1322ff8888f54a9498544.jpg

struth
15-08-2018, 14:33
A couple of coffees today

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180815/ad4795937d35623a3c4af0da79bd4838.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180815/1b0b5b60916fbe80f4ec5375a06efe68.jpg

Rave Coffee have there new coffees in today so bought some. Food onto beans on toast for a while. Lol

Got plenty backups in freezer

Audio Al
15-08-2018, 14:41
Grant , I had the email today as well , but I have only just purchased 2 x 1KG bags of beans so wont be buying any more just now

I have used Rave for years , good product and the offer prices are reasonable :)

struth
15-08-2018, 14:56
Grant , I had the email today as well , but I have only just purchased 2 x 1KG bags of beans so wont be buying any more just now

I have used Rave for years , good product and the offer prices are reasonable :)

Yeah Ive been using Rave for a while now. good coffee and good service. Think it might have been you who suggested them:)

Audio Al
15-08-2018, 15:14
Yeah Ive been using Rave for a while now. good coffee and good service. Think it might have been you who suggested them:)

It was indeed ;)

Marco
15-08-2018, 16:01
Bought one of these Bialetti stove-top espresso machines, to have a play with, until I decide to invest in a 'proper' coffee machine: https://www.bialetti.co.nz/collections/stainless-stovetop/products/bialetti-moka-induction-silver

These have been used for years in Italian households, before automatic 'pressurised' machines were invented:


https://youtu.be/TCUdRhyCnuE

I've also managed to source some of my favourite Italian coffee, used throughout the Tuscany area of Italy, from Bei e Nannini, in Lucca:

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/T0qTe4.jpg

The coffee will mainly be used as a base for cappuccinos, and so filled with hot frothy milk for breakfast every morning. Pics to come, when I get round to making some!:cool:

Marco.

struth
15-08-2018, 17:04
That's similar to what Gary bought I think

Marco
15-08-2018, 20:21
Ah, no worries... Should make decent enough coffee for cappuccinos:) For espressos, it needs to be a pressurised machine, as I like a nice crema, as yours have:)

Marco.

Gazjam
15-08-2018, 20:31
Marco,
you’ll be surprised just how good the coffee the Moka pots can make, seriously.
As you say, generations of Italians can’t be wrong. :)

Was advised (in this thread actually) by someone who swore by a moka pot for years and had to invest in upwards of 1 Large in a ‘proper’ machine to better it.

Get yourself a quality grinder and your good to go.
My reccy is for the one I have, works a treat.
https://www.johnlewis.com/sage-the-smart-grinder-pro-coffee-grinder/p1591194

Marco
16-08-2018, 06:46
Noted, mate. Looks like a good grinder! Which Moka pot did you go for?:)

Marco.

struth
17-08-2018, 15:03
Spooky

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180817/dfc558119a41ef8abb74d6e713020080.jpg

Svend N
17-08-2018, 16:14
Marco,
you’ll be surprised just how good the coffee the Moka pots can make, seriously.
As you say, generations of Italians can’t be wrong. :)

Was advised (in this thread actually) by someone who swore by a moka pot for years and had to invest in upwards of 1 Large in a ‘proper’ machine to better it.

Get yourself a quality grinder and your good to go.
My reccy is for the one I have, works a treat.
https://www.johnlewis.com/sage-the-smart-grinder-pro-coffee-grinder/p1591194

That might have been me :D. Pretty much describes what we did -- used a moka pot for about 20 years before springing for a higher end machine (ECM Giotto). Moka pots are special things, and make excellent coffee. Marco, you will love it. We still use ours from time to time, and almost never travel without it.

As for a grinder, the only recommendation I would make is that you don't need a full-on espresso grinder for a use with a moka pot, unless you plan on getting a pressurized machine later on. But do get a grinder that has machined burrs rather than cheap stamped metal burrs. The latter just mash the beans, whereas machined burrs will actually cut the beans, resulting in less heat and a more even grind. That said, you can get some proper espresso grinders for reasonable money, that can do double duty for moka or even French press. Baratza has a couple of basic models that work great, as do Rancilio (the famous Rocky grinder), and Macap.

Enjoy! And post back if you need user tips :)

Svend

User211
18-08-2018, 08:57
Ah, no worries... Should make decent enough coffee for cappuccinos:) For espressos, it needs to be a pressurised machine, as I like a nice crema, as yours have:)

Marco.Dedicated electric wisk type frothers froth milk better than any espresso machines I have come across.

Qualifying that that is only if you like a thick, floppy, microfoam type of finish.

You also need zero skill.

Cleaning them is harder than cleaning a simple stainless steel jug, though, which you can put in the dishwasher. Unless you can get them with removable inards.

Marco
18-08-2018, 09:01
Yup, but I'm talking about crema (from the coffee), dude, not milk froth. Moka pots, as good as they are, don't produce crema:)

Svend, thanks for all your advice, as usual!:cool:

Marco.

struth
18-08-2018, 09:03
Dedicated electric wisk type frothers froth milk better than any espresso machines I have come across.

Qualifying that that is only if you like a microfoam type of finish.

Cleaning them is harder than cleaning a simple stainless steel jug, though, which you can put in the dishwasher. Unless you can get them with removable inards.

depends on your def of microfoam i guess. to me proper microfoam can only be made with steam. its like cream, rather than whipped egg white.

struth
18-08-2018, 09:19
Early coffee today. I enjoyed it after 15 hrs stuck in bed. Lol

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180818/a4876b95d420923a080bae31e7628df2.jpg

Jac Hawk
18-08-2018, 09:41
Just stumbled on this thread and although i don't class myself as a coffee geek as many of you undoubtedly are (nothing wrong in it and i'm not passing judgement btw) when i moved to Spain a number of years ago i drank coffee with milk but for some reason the cafe con leche (coffee with milk) always tasted weird, as it turned out all the bars, cafes there used UHT milk which i hate (only took me about a year to figure this out) so i started drinking cafe solo (espresso) and now it's my preference, however even when i was living there i preferred the coffee in the bars and cafes to the stuff i made at home, i figured it was probably the way they made it, but then i found that without exception as far as i could tell anyway they all used the same blend of coffee called Nescafe Bonka, i buy it online now in pods for my Dulce Gusto machine ( as i'm typing i can hear the gasps and disapproving tuts of folks that buy the stuff that's been shat by monkeys) but every time i have a cup it reminds me of my time in Spain and the coffee is just the way i like it.

User211
18-08-2018, 09:48
depends on your def of microfoam i guess. to me proper microfoam can only be made with steam. its like cream, rather than whipped egg white.Well put a actually. Was trying to express how it comes out and whipped egg white is nearly there. It's better than that, though.

The trouble with streamers is that the steam condenses to water in the milk. And you need to be well practised in the art.

A lot of steam wands won't do a good job no matter what.

Svend N
18-08-2018, 11:56
Just stumbled on this thread and although i don't class myself as a coffee geek as many of you undoubtedly are (nothing wrong in it and i'm not passing judgement btw) when i moved to Spain a number of years ago i drank coffee with milk but for some reason the cafe con leche (coffee with milk) always tasted weird, as it turned out all the bars, cafes there used UHT milk which i hate (only took me about a year to figure this out) so i started drinking cafe solo (espresso) and now it's my preference, however even when i was living there i preferred the coffee in the bars and cafes to the stuff i made at home, i figured it was probably the way they made it, but then i found that without exception as far as i could tell anyway they all used the same blend of coffee called Nescafe Bonka, i buy it online now in pods for my Dulce Gusto machine ( as i'm typing i can hear the gasps and disapproving tuts of folks that buy the stuff that's been shat by monkeys) but every time i have a cup it reminds me of my time in Spain and the coffee is just the way i like it.

...and that's all that matters. Don't worry about coffee snobs (are there even any here on this forum?). If it tastes good then just enjoy it. I travel to Chile from time to time for work, and pretty much every hotel breakfast joint serves cafe con leche with instant, powdered Nescafe (gasp! :eek:)...you put powder into cup to taste, waiter comes around with a pitcher full of hot milk, and voila! cafe con leche. And it's delicious! I love it.

struth
18-08-2018, 12:07
...and that's all that matters. Don't worry about coffee snobs (are there even any here on this forum?). If it tastes good then just enjoy it. I travel to Chile from time to time for work, and pretty much every hotel breakfast joint serves cafe con leche with instant, powdered Nescafe (gasp! :eek:)...you put powder into cup to taste, waiter comes around with a pitcher full of hot milk, and voila! cafe con leche. And it's delicious! I love it.

peasant :eyebrows: only joking.. one should drink what you like, as long as its not harming you. My son has a tassimo and daughter a dolce gusto nescafe one... both love them and you just press a button for decent coffee.
I just like making it by hand and think it tastes better.

Jac Hawk
18-08-2018, 16:30
peasant :eyebrows: only joking.. one should drink what you like, as long as its not harming you. My son has a tassimo and daughter a dolce gusto nescafe one... both love them and you just press a button for decent coffee.
I just like making it by hand and think it tastes better.

I do like the simplicity of the dolce gusto, but the pods are anything but cheap i keep looking to get a Gaggia machine and do the whole grinding faff and i'm sure in the long run it would work out a lot cheaper and the coffee, once i'd found a blend i liked would be nicer.

struth
18-08-2018, 16:51
if your prepared to grind manually the Orphon lido range are by far the best ive seen or used... I have this one

https://www.coffeehit.co.uk/lido-3-hand-coffee-grinder.html

Hard work grinding espresso but you get the perfect grind every time once set. grinding is so slow that the oils in the beans dont get warmed or burnt as can happen with faster electric ones.
downside is its not cheap and you have to use a fair bit of elbow grease, but if you only want afew a day its perfect.

Grinding correctly is THE most important bit to good coffee

mikmas
18-08-2018, 17:06
I do like the simplicity of the dolce gusto, but the pods are anything but cheap i keep looking to get a Gaggia machine and do the whole grinding faff and i'm sure in the long run it would work out a lot cheaper and the coffee, once i'd found a blend i liked would be nicer.


Got a fairly cheap De Longhi machine a few years back - makes a decent brew and has a very good steam wand (although they can be apparently a bit hit and miss)
After trying a few useless electric jobs, I got a good adjustable hand grinder from Hario - ceramic burrs and takes no time to grind enough for a couple of cups ... very highly rated, I paid about £40 but it's on offer here (https://coffeetastingclub.com/accessories/grinders/hario-skerton-coffee-mill/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI6uvMkIn33AIV1YXVCh2gogf2EAQYASA BEgKgX_D_BwE)

We have a local importer who always has a few interesting beans to choose from but usually I just buy a can of Illy beans at the supermarket (I love em)

Don't mind the faff at all and the sense of achievement every time you make a good cappuccino adds to the flavour :lol:

What I hate is all the cleaning up afterwards just for one coffee .... so I rarely bother now :(

mikmas
18-08-2018, 17:53
if your prepared to grind manually the Orphon lido range are by far the best ive seen or used... I have this one


Just curious ... but did you ever try a Hario Skerton Grant?
Excellent little grinder for just over £30 .... used one for a few years now and never disappoints:

https://coffeetastingclub.com/accessories/grinders/hario-skerton-coffee-mill/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI6uvMkIn33AIV1YXVCh2gogf2EAQYASA BEgKgX_D_BwE

Great feature is that it uses the same thread as Kilner jars - so easy to have a range of different grinds/types in the fridge :)

Jac Hawk
18-08-2018, 17:54
What gets me in this country at least is the cost of getting a coffee while you're out shopping, in Spain a coffee was 1 euro everywhere and it didn't matter if it was a greasy spoon or a top notch restaurant, whereas here i took 2 of my kids along with me to carry the shopping and we had a Costa while we were out, very little change out of £15 and the coffee was just ok nothing mind blowing

struth
18-08-2018, 18:00
I looked at quite a few but got enamoured with the orphan stuff. The burrs are lovely and whole thing can be taken apart with 1 driver.
Lidos have got good cred in USA especially. But I do nearly buy one similar to that one you've got. Had to sell a few things to afford it so I guess only nuts like me buy them. Lol

struth
18-08-2018, 18:35
Might add there are a few orphan espresso lido videos on YouTube if anyone is interested

mikmas
18-08-2018, 19:21
Inspired by posts earlier I gave the De Longhi a bit of a flush through and made a fresh Illy brew just now ...
Hand grind took about 4 minutes to make enough for two cups ....

Firstly the brew - this was a 45 seconds stream which I usually find enough for a good crema (hope Marco approves .... ;) )

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1871/30248716838_069e9da04a.jpg

Then the milk - I usually use a small glass rather than an SS jug so I can keep an eye on it. This one turned out slightly on the frothy side:

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1888/44116775031_aeac664625.jpg

The result? - delicious, definitely not Mr Grumpy now :lol:

struth
18-08-2018, 19:33
Nice crema mine takes 23 secs for a large double double that I use for my partial latte. 3/4 coffee. 1/4 milk

Marco
19-08-2018, 09:22
Inspired by posts earlier I gave the De Longhi a bit of a flush through and made a fresh Illy brew just now ...
Hand grind took about 4 minutes to make enough for two cups ....

Firstly the brew - this was a 45 seconds stream which I usually find enough for a good crema (hope Marco approves .... ;) )

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1871/30248716838_069e9da04a.jpg


Lovely! However, I wouldn't have spoiled it with milk... That deserved to be savoured 'as is' (or was)!

Marco.

struth
19-08-2018, 10:52
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180819/f66d50eda8bf91937b4f2518643173e7.jpg

Yummy

User211
19-08-2018, 11:12
Crema fans should pull their shots into a shot cup made of glass.

You'll soon see which coffees produce the most crema.

As YouTube videos will tell you, it isn't a guarantee of quality.

struth
20-08-2018, 09:29
Milky Way one this morning

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180820/8cf7f30f0601808a3b7b8c894e686e09.jpg

Marco
20-08-2018, 09:56
That looks suspiciously 'creamy'... Are you sure that there's no man's milk in it?:D:eyebrows:

Marco.

struth
20-08-2018, 10:11
That looks suspiciously 'creamy'... Are you sure that there's no man's milk in it?:D:eyebrows:

Marco.

:lol: I milked a goat...full cream:eyebrows:

Marco
20-08-2018, 10:41
Ha- and there was me thinking you were 'lactose intolerant':D

Marco.

struth
20-08-2018, 10:43
Coffee arrived. 3 250gm bags. I'm not overly short but fancied trying the new ones

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180820/0347971c58a4a6a63e21bd820d2279f8.jpg

Also noticed the new 250 fm packets are click sealing so will stay fresh in bag. That's a great advantage. Well done Rave

struth
20-08-2018, 10:59
Ha- and there was me thinking you were 'lactose intolerant':D

Marco.

no lactose in goats. or very low. not sure if i am, but normal cows milk (that contains A1 beta-casein) makes me ill. i seem ok with A2 beta-casein. so i use goat or A2 milk. mostly goat tbh as its easier to get

Jac Hawk
20-08-2018, 13:19
The nicest coffee i ever had was in New Orleans at a place called Cafe Du Monde, french roast coffee and beignets mmmmmmm

struth
20-08-2018, 13:44
considering a induction moka pot as well, but not sure what one yet..

struth
22-08-2018, 08:56
Some cupped lightening

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180822/d5459d3f19f5d019b3d3252075aeca39.jpg

struth
23-08-2018, 08:56
Brain juice

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180823/36f39592e269d62a8758265cb796e1ed.jpg

struth
23-08-2018, 09:24
That was good brain juice :)

Marco
24-08-2018, 09:02
Just got myself a nice 1kg bag of one of my favourite types of coffee beans on ebay, as commonly used by Costa:

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/BwaUp3.jpg

I know from experience that these beans make wonderful cappuccinos! Also got myself an entry-level hand grinder, to use with my Moka pot, and will see how that goes, before investing in the type of machine Gaz has recommended:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Hario-Medium-Coffee-Grinder-Ceramic/dp/B001802PIQ/ref=pd_sbs_201_1?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B001802PIQ&pd_rd_r=d32954bb-a77a-11e8-9ef1-419f427e8ea3&pd_rd_w=1MzkJ&pd_rd_wg=CiJON&pf_rd_i=desktop-dp-sims&pf_rd_m=A3P5ROKL5A1OLE&pf_rd_p=4fe8124b-f455-49bd-9e7d-c251837661fc&pf_rd_r=VE7CPKAX11MC4MCNKG24&pf_rd_s=desktop-dp-sims&pf_rd_t=40701&psc=1&refRID=VE7CPKAX11MC4MCNKG24

When it all arrives, I'll post a pic of the results!:cool:

Marco.

struth
24-08-2018, 09:32
that will keep you going for a while mate.

Marco
24-08-2018, 10:57
Yups... Have you tried Mocha Italia before? It's really rich and smooth!:)

Marco.

mikmas
24-08-2018, 11:06
... Also got myself an entry-level hand grinder, to use with my Moka pot, and will see how that goes, before investing in the type of machine Gaz has recommended:


Nice one Marco :)
The Hario is a great little grinder to use. I found getting to grips with the setting a bit finicky at first but not too difficult.
If you haven't found it already, this video is well worth the watch and has some handy tips (including recommended settings):

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zyCHdG25JFU

struth
24-08-2018, 11:17
Yups... Have you tried Mocha Italia before? It's really rich and smooth!:)

Marco.

yes, i tried them once. as you say they are quite smooth.. very costa the grinder will be a major step up for you.. :clapclapclap:

Marco
24-08-2018, 13:04
Hope so, mate. Rich and smooth is how I like my coffee. I'm not a fan of excessive sharpness or acidity, such I find you often get with some African beans.

Marco.

Marco
24-08-2018, 13:05
Nice one Marco :)
The Hario is a great little grinder to use. I found getting to grips with the setting a bit finicky at first but not too difficult.
If you haven't found it already, this video is well worth the watch and has some handy tips (including recommended settings):

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zyCHdG25JFU

Cheers for the video, Mike. I'll sit and watch that later:):thumbsup:

Marco.

struth
25-08-2018, 09:30
Putsasmileonyourface coffee

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180825/975650e9fbdeff31ef2f5de43cb4810f.jpg

struth
25-08-2018, 14:10
Justcantleafit coffee

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180825/5e735572df28ff8dbeb298a6100d6075.jpg

Marco
26-08-2018, 07:40
Lol - you're making up words now!:eyebrows:

Marco.

User211
26-08-2018, 08:22
Justcantleafit coffee

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180825/5e735572df28ff8dbeb298a6100d6075.jpgWatchamillionl atteartyoutubevideosandgetbetteryouloser

MindyouIamshitetoo

:)

struth
26-08-2018, 08:29
loser?... me?.... oh yeah,..loser :rolleyes:

User211
26-08-2018, 08:49
Found a really good hybrid using cheaper supermarket coffees by accident at the end of the coffee hopper when I had to refill.

So my taste buds say a 50/50 mix of these is fab.

They are both better than I expected by themselves.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180826/e6c3bfb6b18f487dc19fe8e1f2898db4.jpg

struth
28-08-2018, 09:22
This rawandan gives the perfect crema

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180828/6e7389afe70b62f3ae3165402b534021.jpg

struth
28-08-2018, 10:40
New supplies. They offered me a big discount plus free post so I filled me boots

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180828/4a20d1196e2ba7311f6cba2d3974179a.jpg

WESTLOWER
28-08-2018, 10:45
New supplies. They offered me a big discount plus free post so I filled me boots

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180828/4a20d1196e2ba7311f6cba2d3974179a.jpg

Im going to check these guys out!
Grant, Can you recommend a grinder?

struth
28-08-2018, 10:52
Im going to check these guys out!
Grant, Can you recommend a grinder?

you got a budget Adam?

WESTLOWER
28-08-2018, 11:36
you got a budget Adam?

Crumbs, I wouldn't know where to start. I suppose moderate!
Rest of the income is hifi tokens ;)

WESTLOWER
28-08-2018, 11:40
you got a budget Adam?

This is my machine, although it isn't getting much use these day...easier to do a cafetiere!
https://i.imgur.com/r4lfQSH.png

struth
28-08-2018, 11:41
you can get a decent electric for 160... the one marco bought is about 40 and manual. good start point.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Hario-Medium-Coffee-Grinder-Ceramic/dp/B001802PIQ/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1535456393&sr=8-4&keywords=manual+coffee+grinder+ceramic+burr

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Sage-BCG820BSSUK-Smart-Grinder-Coffee/dp/B00P81AQUU/ref=sr_1_10?s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1535456436&sr=1-10&keywords=electric+coffee+grinder+with+settings

struth
28-08-2018, 11:42
This is my machine, although it isn't getting much use these day...easier to do a cafetiere!
https://i.imgur.com/r4lfQSH.png

always wanted one of those

WESTLOWER
28-08-2018, 11:43
you can get a decent electric for 160... the one marco bought is about 40 and manual. good start point.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Hario-Medium-Coffee-Grinder-Ceramic/dp/B001802PIQ/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1535456393&sr=8-4&keywords=manual+coffee+grinder+ceramic+burr

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Sage-BCG820BSSUK-Smart-Grinder-Coffee/dp/B00P81AQUU/ref=sr_1_10?s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1535456436&sr=1-10&keywords=electric+coffee+grinder+with+settings

I quite like a hand job! :eyebrows: (apologies)
Will the manual one give a fine enough grind?

WESTLOWER
28-08-2018, 11:46
Thanks Grant, actually the electric one looks great.
Apart from the obvious freshness, is it much better to go the bean route as apposed to ground? or is that like asking CDs or Vinyl?

Gazjam
28-08-2018, 11:50
Second the Sage grinder reccy,
Built to last and does a grand job of my morning cup of Joe



you can get a decent electric for 160... the one marco bought is about 40 and manual. good start point.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Hario-Medium-Coffee-Grinder-Ceramic/dp/B001802PIQ/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1535456393&sr=8-4&keywords=manual+coffee+grinder+ceramic+burr

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Sage-BCG820BSSUK-Smart-Grinder-Coffee/dp/B00P81AQUU/ref=sr_1_10?s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1535456436&sr=1-10&keywords=electric+coffee+grinder+with+settings

WESTLOWER
28-08-2018, 11:52
always wanted one of those

I got it in a house clearance shop 25 years ago, bit of a mess...
mine is an original from the late 50's or so.. I had it completely serviced and fettled as it leaked and was pretty darn dangerous. Apart from the odd descale it works a treat.
BUT can never seem to get a good head/froth on my steamed milk.. I found I was frothing shit loads more milk than needed just for a half decent froth, I don't like milky coffee. Flat white stylee for me.
Maybe the wrong milk Jug, maybe my steaming action... God it's complicated!

struth
28-08-2018, 11:53
Thanks Grant, actually the electric one looks great.
Apart from the obvious freshness, is it much better to go the bean route as apposed to ground? or is that like asking CDs or Vinyl?

No, the grind is the most important bit about coffee... i use one of these .. https://www.coffeehit.co.uk/lido-3-hand-coffee-grinder.html ..its not cheap and hard work but its the best hand grinder around. im getting too old now for it lol but it does great coffee... machine omes second for me... the hario is decent for money. if your only making 1 or 2 a day then a manual is your choice as its better than an electric; goes slower nd keeps the oils from getting hot.

struth
28-08-2018, 11:55
I got it in a house clearance shop 25 years ago, bit of a mess...
mine is an original from the late 50's or so.. I had it completely serviced and fettled as it leaked and was pretty darn dangerous. Apart from the odd descale it works a treat.
BUT can never seem to get a good head/froth on my steamed milk.. I found I was frothing shit loads more milk than needed just for a half decent froth, I don't like milky coffee. Flat white stylee for me.
Maybe the wrong milk Jug, maybe my steaming action... God it's complicated!

you can always buy a milk frother/foamer.. some steam wands are difficult to master.

WESTLOWER
28-08-2018, 12:02
you can always buy a milk frother/foamer.. some steam wands are difficult to master.

I'll look into one. Cheers Grant
Your posts have inspired me to get back into my La Pavoni coffee ritual.

struth
28-08-2018, 12:27
I'll look into one. Cheers Grant
Your posts have inspired me to get back into my La Pavoni coffee ritual.

as do your jazz ones

struth
28-08-2018, 12:44
One of the new ones. Columbia Finca

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180828/4c051d5a2db3fcb1a8800f8d5a679165.jpg

very nice.. smooth but a decent body. Marco would like this

struth
29-08-2018, 09:52
Yumhttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180829/ef1e184cbac63618903fa7e29534512d.jpg

Svend N
29-08-2018, 11:20
I got it in a house clearance shop 25 years ago, bit of a mess...
mine is an original from the late 50's or so.. I had it completely serviced and fettled as it leaked and was pretty darn dangerous. Apart from the odd descale it works a treat.
BUT can never seem to get a good head/froth on my steamed milk.. I found I was frothing shit loads more milk than needed just for a half decent froth, I don't like milky coffee. Flat white stylee for me.
Maybe the wrong milk Jug, maybe my steaming action... God it's complicated!

Adam -- yeah, frothing can be tricky. If I may offer some suggestions...

If you don't have one, a pitcher with a narrowing upper half helps build foam. Don't use one too large; half-full with cold milk is about right.

And do make sure the milk is cold. Higher fat content milk froths easier, and tastes better. A steaming nozzle tip with multiple holes can help, but once you get the knack then a single-hole nozzle will work just fine. If your machine has adjustable steam pressure, make sure it's set so that you have enough to really steam aggressively. Too-low pressure and it's hopeless.

Tip the pitcher at a slight angle toward the machine; hold the nozzle along the tipped-down inside wall, well under the milk surface, and let rip with a good blast of steam; now (here's the tricky part) raise the nozzle until it is just under the milk surface and the steam is actively sucking air down into the milk, and Hey! Voila! you will have froth building like crazy. You'll know when you hit the sweet spot by the much louder hissing sound, and by the vortex of milk and air being pulled down around the nozzle tip. Pull it out too far and you'll have milk all over the kitchen; leave it in too deep and it won't froth and just makes a dull hiss. Takes a bit of practice until you twig it, but once you do it's easy, easy. Finesse -- that's the trick. And use your ears :)

Let us know how it goes.

Hope this helps!

Svend

PS -- nice machine, that Pavoni. Like Grant, I've always wanted one. Classic design.

WESTLOWER
29-08-2018, 12:25
Adam -- yeah, frothing can be tricky. If I may offer some suggestions...

If you don't have one, a pitcher with a narrowing upper half helps build foam. Don't use one too large; half-full with cold milk is about right.

And do make sure the milk is cold. Higher fat content milk froths easier, and tastes better. A steaming nozzle tip with multiple holes can help, but once you get the knack then a single-hole nozzle will work just fine. If your machine has adjustable steam pressure, make sure it's set so that you have enough to really steam aggressively. Too-low pressure and it's hopeless.

Tip the pitcher at a slight angle toward the machine; hold the nozzle along the tipped-down inside wall, well under the milk surface, and let rip with a good blast of steam; now (here's the tricky part) raise the nozzle until it is just under the milk surface and the steam is actively sucking air down into the milk, and Hey! Voila! you will have froth building like crazy. You'll know when you hit the sweet spot by the much louder hissing sound, and by the vortex of milk and air being pulled down around the nozzle tip. Pull it out too far and you'll have milk all over the kitchen; leave it in too deep and it won't froth and just makes a dull hiss. Takes a bit of practice until you twig it, but once you do it's easy, easy. Finesse -- that's the trick. And use your ears :)

Let us know how it goes.

Hope this helps!

Svend

PS -- nice machine, that Pavoni. Like Grant, I've always wanted one. Classic design.

Hi Sven,
thanks for the Frothing tips!!

I made the best darn coffee ever this morning!! and with the right hand action got my self a good old froth (no sniggering at the back you dirty buggers!)
I use skimmed milk, so this maybe an issue.

Man i forgot how good it is to make it properly. Woke the whole house up at 6am
so ended up making everyone one!

Need a grinder. Thats next on my list
Cheers Chaps!

struth
29-08-2018, 14:31
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180829/01a14ee29454556956a06bb002a0a40b.jpg

that was great..truly great

CageyH
29-08-2018, 17:19
What is your favourite coffee?
I fancy trying something different so I am looking for a recommendation.

struth
29-08-2018, 17:25
What is your favourite coffee?
I fancy trying something different so I am looking for a recommendation.

I like quite a few on rave but this was the one i bought again. https://ravecoffee.co.uk/collections/single-origin-coffee/products/ethiopia-magarissa-lot-2?variant=2762757537818

Svend N
30-08-2018, 10:27
Hi Sven,
thanks for the Frothing tips!!

I made the best darn coffee ever this morning!! and with the right hand action got my self a good old froth (no sniggering at the back you dirty buggers!)
I use skimmed milk, so this maybe an issue.

Man i forgot how good it is to make it properly. Woke the whole house up at 6am
so ended up making everyone one!

Need a grinder. Thats next on my list
Cheers Chaps!

Well, now we know you're not a southpaw :D.

Seriously, great to hear that things are improving. Keep practising and soon it will be second nature, you'll be able to do it with eyes closed.

Cheers,
Svend

Audio Al
31-08-2018, 17:50
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KRDf5x6cYMM&list=PLJ0fNWL4J-JWma5HfzQ8GdrZkLNWoIuor

All you need to know ;)

CageyH
31-08-2018, 19:11
A few of my recent efforts:

https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1890/43648506624_606081dbf2_z_d.jpg

https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1853/43648507154_ccd055c422_z_d.jpg

https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1886/44389970771_a9ef11d4bd_z_d.jpg

I am getting the hang of this coffee making malarkey now.

struth
31-08-2018, 20:23
good thick crema..

Audio Al
01-09-2018, 16:13
My ECM Barista is not working :(

Think it needs a new pump , one on order :)

struth
01-09-2018, 16:27
My ECM Barista is not working :(

Think it needs a new pump , one on order :)

no luck Al.. what do they cost? 60/70 quid?

Audio Al
01-09-2018, 16:34
no luck Al.. what do they cost? 60/70 quid?

£14 delivered :)

struth
01-09-2018, 16:37
£14 delivered :)

thats a good price.

Audio Al
01-09-2018, 18:35
UNIVERSAL EP7 230V Vibratory Electric Pump for Espresso/Coffee Machines 48W 50Hz

struth
02-09-2018, 09:43
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180902/b543febc4e52edcaa25d971ed70ebf64.jpg

Good morning drinky

struth
02-09-2018, 14:08
Just back in drinky

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180902/c8cd652e67a2d17b5abaf273e254b90a.jpg

User211
02-09-2018, 14:59
New mug from Poundland:Dhttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180902/4ace4353420cc02f9bc34df261ac7711.jpg

struth
02-09-2018, 15:23
cool

Svend N
02-09-2018, 20:24
New mug from Poundland:Dhttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180902/4ace4353420cc02f9bc34df261ac7711.jpg

Love it! That should be offered as a Master's degree at university...an M-GsD

struth
03-09-2018, 08:14
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180903/f6bcc44daae373ead059f504e8c4804d.jpeg

Papillion.

struth
03-09-2018, 14:26
Get lost

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180903/4d86cd99b386e1b9a4d7c402c2d44277.jpeg

User211
03-09-2018, 19:45
Get lost

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180903/4d86cd99b386e1b9a4d7c402c2d44277.jpegA ref to the stick out tongue I guess?

Papillon though?

struth
03-09-2018, 19:49
A butterfly. More like a moth tbh lol

User211
03-09-2018, 20:34
A butterfly. More like a moth tbh lolWhere there's a will LOL...

struth
03-09-2018, 20:36
Like beauty it's in the eye of the beholder

Marco
04-09-2018, 18:22
A cheeky wee cappuccino, produced this morning with my new Moka pot/milk frother and hand coffee-grinder, and with freshly ground Mocha Italia beans, from Costa, mixed with a touch of chocolate:

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/921/ktupn3.jpg

Marco.

User211
04-09-2018, 20:44
Permanent grin.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180904/8ff5cfdb877821723aa620bd1578da2e.jpg

User211
04-09-2018, 20:46
One minute later...https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180904/fc59a2486ecafc8dc25b1fae79abda60.jpg

User211
04-09-2018, 20:57
5 minutes later.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180904/89793408b9d4d63a9667240b563dea5e.jpg

User211
04-09-2018, 21:07
A cheeky wee cappuccino, produced this morning with my new Moka pot/milk frother and hand coffee-grinder, and with freshly ground Mocha Italia beans, from Costa, mixed with a touch of chocolate:

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/921/ktupn3.jpg

Marco.Looks good bro.

Mine's a quick cheap call with an electo frother and psuedo permanent grin.

Tonight.

Tomorrow will differ.

But I probably won't post it.

Marco
04-09-2018, 21:53
Thanks dude, but yours was funnier! Nice one:cool:

Marco.

Marco
04-09-2018, 21:58
Btw, has anyone experimented with different types of milk, say whole vs. semi-skimmed, normal vs. organic, etc?

I'm currently experimenting with different types. Whole milk defo froths up more, but for my tastes is a little too rich, so I prefer the results I'm getting with semi-skimmed.

What I need to decide on now is whether or not the various types of organic semi-skimmed milks available, particularly those from so-called 'specialist' producers, when used to make a milky coffee, taste any better than their non-organic counterparts.

I'll be testing a few soon, so watch this space!:cool:

Marco.

struth
04-09-2018, 22:02
Tried them all mate. Those filtered milks work well. I use goats milk and find it the best overall. Either s skimmed or full fat. Both work well. Nicer milk than cow milk too with cereal

Marco
04-09-2018, 22:27
Interesting... I hadn't considered goats milk. Will give that one a go, too! What, in your opinion, is better about the taste it produces?:)

Marco.

struth
04-09-2018, 22:29
Interesting... I hadn't considered goats milk. Will give that one a go, too! What, in your opinion, is better about the taste it produces?:)

Marco.

More flavour and easy digestion. Del would be ok with it I think. I am

Marco
04-09-2018, 22:32
Del doesn't really drink coffee at home, more tea, so for me the deciding factor would purely be flavour!:)

Marco.

struth
04-09-2018, 22:37
It's dearer mind. The filter stuff is good for foaming and lasts a fair time. 7 days I think. I just pay extra for the goat. It's that much better taste wise and I get no issues

Marco
04-09-2018, 22:55
Thanks, I think I'll just about be able to afford it;)

Marco.

struth
04-09-2018, 23:33
Thanks, I think I'll just about be able to afford it;)

Marco.

Didn't want to bankrupt you like[emoji5]

struth
05-09-2018, 10:22
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180905/75eb4bef8b0bf6f66d857dffcca6b578.jpg

Marco
05-09-2018, 10:32
Oh yes, that's nice!:)

Marco.

struth
05-09-2018, 13:54
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180905/b2349677f89be85c9b46b133698d1020.jpg

struth
06-09-2018, 10:02
Rhapsody in brown

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180906/d1f7508b030d80d4e7a75049cbf4f6a8.jpg

Marco
06-09-2018, 10:10
Lol - you're getting there, mate! I've just made a cracking cappuccino (my best yet), with the Moka pot and milk frother, which I'll post up later. It was better than anything I've had in a coffee shop!:)

Marco.

struth
06-09-2018, 10:18
Lol - you're getting there, mate! I've just made a cracking cappuccino (my best yet), with the Moka pot and milk frother, which I'll post up later. It was better than anything I've had in a coffee shop!:)

Marco.

good. practice, practice; and its enjoyable coz u gets tae drink it

CageyH
06-09-2018, 13:29
Btw, has anyone experimented with different types of milk, say whole vs. semi-skimmed, normal vs. organic, etc?

I'm currently experimenting with different types. Whole milk defo froths up more, but for my tastes is a little too rich, so I prefer the results I'm getting with semi-skimmed.

What I need to decide on now is whether or not the various types of organic semi-skimmed milks available, particularly those from so-called 'specialist' producers, when used to make a milky coffee, taste any better than their non-organic counterparts.

I'll be testing a few soon, so watch this space!:cool:

Marco.

I just use semi-skimmed non filtered milk. My other choice is UHT here in France.

Svend N
06-09-2018, 15:54
I just use semi-skimmed non filtered milk. My other choice is UHT here in France.

Ditto here. Skim milk is tough to froth -- it can be done with good technique, but the taste isn't worth the effort. Too watery (yuck!). Semi-skimmed (2% on this side of the Atlantic) is perfect balance of neither too rich or too watery tasting, and it froths easily. Not a fan of UHT as I find it tastes cooked, not fresh.


Lol - you're getting there, mate! I've just made a cracking cappuccino (my best yet), with the Moka pot and milk frother, which I'll post up later. It was better than anything I've had in a coffee shop!

Marco.

Now you're talkin'! So right. I've tasted coffee out of some super-auto machines costing thousands that was worse than what a $20 moka pot can do.

BTW, what frother are you using Marco? When we use our moka pot, we have a stove-top frother which works great. Makes gobs of thick foam. Tried a little battery powered spinny thing for a while, but gave up on that as too underpowered and incapable of doing more than one cup at a time.

Marco
06-09-2018, 17:14
Lol - you're getting there, mate! I've just made a cracking cappuccino (my best yet), with the Moka pot and milk frother, which I'll post up later.

As promised, first up, 'au natural', unstirred with some chocolate:

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/924/d8bJEq.jpg


Next, stirred:


https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/924/SDRUaO.jpg


It was bloody lovely - really smooth, rich and creamy!:)

Oh, and the milk used was just Asda's bog-standard semi-skimmed.

Marco.

struth
06-09-2018, 17:16
good one :)

Marco
06-09-2018, 17:23
BTW, what frother are you using Marco?

Hi Svend,

Just of these cheap jobbies, from Lidl: https://www.lidlcommunity.co.uk/t5/Coffee-Break/Milk-Frother/td-p/42928

Think it cost me £20 (and is branded as Silvercrest). Works really well:)

Marco.

Svend N
06-09-2018, 18:17
Hi Svend,

Just of these cheap jobbies, from Lidl: https://www.lidlcommunity.co.uk/t5/Coffee-Break/Milk-Frother/td-p/42928

Think it cost me £20 (and is branded as Silvercrest). Works really well:)

Marco.

Good one! I believe they do work well. My sister-in-law has one alongside her capsule machine - seems to do the job easily. Bit of a pain to clean though. The stovetop ones do the business also, if you get a good one. Dishwasher cleanup is nice....

Enjoy!

PS -- we drank moka pot coffee all last week while on vacation in Atlantic Canada. Wonderful stuff, and the Bialettis travel well.

WESTLOWER
06-09-2018, 19:05
I have just seen on the bbc news website, Starfucks are about to open their first outlet in Italy ... Milano!
I’ll reserve judgment!
Apparently it’s the crown jewel of their empire...oh, and they will sell pizza!
Is nowt sacred??
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-45430915

Marco
06-09-2018, 19:08
Jeez... If I was in Milan, the very LAST place I'd be having a coffee would be in fooking Starbucks!!! :doh:

You'd need to be an utterly brainless, tasteless tool to go there, with so many utterly fabulous traditional Italian cafes around!

Marco.

WESTLOWER
06-09-2018, 19:12
Jeez... If I was in Milan, the very LAST place I'd be having a coffee would be in fooking Starbucks!!! :doh:

You'd need to be an utterly brainless, tasteless tool to go there, with so many utterly fabulous traditional Italian cafes around!

Marco.

Esattamente!!!

struth
07-09-2018, 09:32
The coffee hoard

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180907/2a4f2ea8684321f8eb1c5e487577dd79.jpg

Fruit of the cupboard or is it ghost

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180907/976b3a0ac5d061c04b41f6aaa4f1748a.jpg

struth
07-09-2018, 10:04
Jeez... If I was in Milan, the very LAST place I'd be having a coffee would be in fooking Starbucks!!! :doh:

You'd need to be an utterly brainless, tasteless tool to go there, with so many utterly fabulous traditional Italian cafes around!

Marco.

the young often want a place where other "young" meet... They not only sell coffee but lots of other shoite....and anywhere you go there is one..... it will surprise you but it will do very well in milan. i wouldnt go there on principle alone

Marco
07-09-2018, 12:23
Trust me, there are plenty of "young" in the coffee shops I go to over there!:eyebrows:

Also, don't get the idea that young people are all brainwashed sheep, and automatically drawn to marketed brands. Some are still discerning and capable of individual thought;)

The Starbucks in question will undoubtedly do well, but mainly because of the amount of footfall it'll get, courtesy of one of the most touristy cities in the world, not because of much else.

Marco.

P.S Lovin' yer coffee hoard!:respect:

struth
07-09-2018, 12:26
Trust me, there are plenty of "young" in the coffee shops I go to over there!:eyebrows:

Also, don't get the idea that young people are all brainwashed sheep, and automatically drawn to marketed brands. Some are still discerning and capable of individual thought;)

Marco.

naw...they're all sheep mate :ner:

I agree, but many do like to do what others do and be part of that in crowd.. its what young folk do. once they get it out of their system they will go back to quality.

Marco
07-09-2018, 12:34
naw...they're all sheep mate :ner:

I agree, but many do like to do what others do and be part of that in crowd.. its what young folk do. once they get it out of their system they will go back to quality.

Not me, when I was young (or Del). We liked to be different, by refusing to conform to the norm... We had minds of our own, and that's still the same now. The fact is, intelligent and well-educated people, of any age, are less prone to being brainwashed.

However, other than that, I accept your point:)

Marco.

Marco
07-09-2018, 17:26
Today's brekkurs... A glass of Portuguese pure mango juice, Ensaïmada (a type of Spanish pastry), and another cheeky wee cappuccino, this time in a glass mug:

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/BJxN65.jpg

And no, those aren't sheep droppings!:eyebrows:

Marco.

CageyH
07-09-2018, 17:30
You eat coffee beans for breakfast?

Marco
07-09-2018, 17:31
Yesh... We're like that here.

Marco.

User211
07-09-2018, 17:32
You know when you've got good beans, because if you literally eat one, it tastes good!

Grant you are a complete coffee nutcase!;):lol:

CageyH
07-09-2018, 17:34
Can’t say I have ever tried eating a bean. I usually grind them to make coffee with.

Marco
07-09-2018, 17:38
Can’t say I have ever tried eating a bean..

That's all that came out my wallet earlier...:(

Marco.

User211
08-09-2018, 09:22
Interesting tea making contraption. Available in Sainsbury's. I use it a lot for single cups of loose leaf tea.

A reusable tea bag, basically.

Back to coffee...https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180908/d0c32bc86e0edebc70b558648d62cb95.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180908/1f6fcfb2306465177aaff498a02c25fe.jpg

User211
08-09-2018, 09:22
Can’t say I have ever tried eating a bean. I usually grind them to make coffee with.Luddite:D

struth
08-09-2018, 09:50
Luddite coffee

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180908/a1c4ff656a20ab34d6de24d110b494be.jpg

Marco
08-09-2018, 09:51
Interesting tea making contraption. Available in Sainsbury's. I use it a lot for single cups of loose leaf tea.

A reusable tea bag, basically.

Back to coffee...https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180908/d0c32bc86e0edebc70b558648d62cb95.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180908/1f6fcfb2306465177aaff498a02c25fe.jpg

Looks like an S&M bra for a deformed midget!:D

Marco.

User211
08-09-2018, 10:05
Looks like an S&M bra for a deformed midget!:D

Marco.You shouldn't talk about your rent girl like that.

The hook is for your Prince Albert. Easy portability.

struth
08-09-2018, 10:08
they are tea infusers.. my mum had one, mostly for green tea

User211
08-09-2018, 10:12
£3.50 I think. Maybe £3.75.

I like it because it is a contraption, literally. Good word - contraption.

struth
08-09-2018, 10:16
£3.50 I think. Maybe £3.75.

I like it because it is a contraption, literally. Good word - contraption.

you can still buy them; also get tong versions for the kinky.:eyebrows:

User211
08-09-2018, 10:28
you can still buy them; also get tong versions for the kinky.:eyebrows:Yeah Sainsbury's Grant, as I said. Not sure about the Pete Tong version, though.

struth
08-09-2018, 10:30
https://www.teapalace.co.uk/products/infuser-tongs

User211
08-09-2018, 10:45
https://www.teapalace.co.uk/products/infuser-tongsWant.

CageyH
08-09-2018, 12:19
I’ll stick with my Tefal Magic Tea contraption.

Marco
08-09-2018, 13:49
You shouldn't talk about your rent girl like that.

The hook is for your Prince Albert. Easy portability.

Ha - you and I must buy from the same catalogues! The rent girl's more into 'golden showers':eyebrows:

Marco.

struth
08-09-2018, 14:26
Maple leaf coffee

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180908/03761b8c0946dd6804561aa3adf1e499.jpg

Audio Al
08-09-2018, 18:01
My new pump for the ECM arrived today , no time to fit it until tomorrow ,

Also while I had no propper coffee I purchased some Colombian instant arabica from ALDI , for instant its very good :) good lingering flavour
, only £1.79 for 100 grams

User211
08-09-2018, 19:07
Ha - you and I must buy from the same catalogues! The rent girl's more into 'golden showers':eyebrows:

Marco.My fave rent girl is in the movie Payback. Now she's good. Not my scene but for her I have some considerable respect. A master at her art.

Audio Al
09-09-2018, 16:37
Grant do you ever look in here = https://coffeeforums.co.uk/forum.php

Mind blowing site :)

struth
10-09-2018, 10:51
Grant do you ever look in here = https://coffeeforums.co.uk/forum.php

Mind blowing site :)

Yup been on a few times. Need to look again.

First coffee for while. A bit shaky but not bad

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180910/12a10fcf2afbf1de1bbd1e61d1e5b088.jpeg

CageyH
10-09-2018, 12:01
Grant do you ever look in here = https://coffeeforums.co.uk/forum.php

Mind blowing site :)

I am a member there too. Same user name as here.

Audio Al
11-09-2018, 11:31
I am a member there too. Same user name as here.

I am ( Instant no more ) :)

struth
11-09-2018, 14:05
I am ( Instant no more ) :)

Yay!

struth
11-09-2018, 14:06
Here's my coffee corner

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180911/34095f2f1cdf092ab5dab4abb5a1aec5.jpg

Cheapish in comparison to you lads machines.

Still it can make this

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180911/76791d4a1a65c49667bdaa7c4764b09b.jpg

CageyH
11-09-2018, 14:11
Ooo, a class A coffee machine. :)

struth
11-09-2018, 14:15
yup, power rating.. it switches off if left too long, which isnt long.

CageyH
11-09-2018, 14:22
Mine takes a max of 2.2kW. :eek:

struth
11-09-2018, 14:23
Mine takes a max of 2.2kW. :eek:

can run a fire with that energy :eek:

Audio Al
11-09-2018, 14:33
Yay!

Thats my forum name , not a working machine yet , no time to do it , Bloody work

struth
11-09-2018, 15:37
Thats my forum name , not a working machine yet , no time to do it , Bloody work

Lol. Thought you meant your machine was fixed

Audio Al
11-09-2018, 17:44
Lol. Thought you meant your machine was fixed


:D

Svend N
11-09-2018, 18:18
Thats my forum name , not a working machine yet , no time to do it , Bloody work

Curious to know how your repair works out. I also have an ECM machine, which has had the occasional breakdown. Always curious about other's experiences with theirs.

Hope you get back in the espresso groove soon :)

Cheers,
Svend

struth
12-09-2018, 09:19
Sorry it got drunk.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180912/5dce498f05f1577b8f702c32bf6b4935.jpg

struth
12-09-2018, 13:13
Cocked up the grind there and the milk was new but not quite right. All down drain and new grind and another milk carton

Success

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180912/220ed7963bc001da7bf6dfdb7ff560e7.jpeg

Milk was unopened and had 17th date on. Just shows as it looked and smelled fine but steaming milk will tell you if it's off

struth
13-09-2018, 09:37
Coffee in hand and jazz in ear. What could be better on a rainy morning

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180913/515e16eec14bef1de11abf09d541c18a.jpg

Audio Al
13-09-2018, 13:56
I see no hand :scratch:

struth
13-09-2018, 14:20
I see no hand :scratch:

Leant it out. Never returned

struth
14-09-2018, 09:05
Managed this this morning.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180914/b9cd9bf40f83528ae6fcb6246438251c.jpg

struth
14-09-2018, 14:32
Nearly forgot. A celebratory coffee. Forgot what I'm celibate about tho. [emoji23]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180914/e747f381912ba59f1cf11c89f9503a00.jpg

User211
14-09-2018, 14:38
Local haunt's latte. And breakfast LOL.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180914/d252fa026ea7f87fafe1d1dd95b8c2ad.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180914/3fc881ca9afc96adf1477d535c883305.jpg

struth
14-09-2018, 14:49
not had fry up for ages

walpurgis
14-09-2018, 14:55
not had fry up for ages

Nor me. I only fry eggs or mushrooms anyway

User211
14-09-2018, 15:01
Damned fine it was too. It might be 4pm Friday but I really enjoyed that.

struth
14-09-2018, 15:03
ive got the makings in freezer for a couple of fry ups. must have one soon and bugger the consequences :eyebrows: black, white, bacon, sausage, potato scone chilli beans, brown sauce... awesome

User211
14-09-2018, 15:09
ive got the makings in freezer for a couple of fry ups. must have one soon and bugger the consequences :eyebrows: black, white, bacon, sausage, potato scone chilli beans, brown sauce... awesomeSounds it. Do it.

:)

struth
15-09-2018, 09:51
This looks yummy

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180915/edf8ae4f2252710090b08fb4a7fee301.jpg

Used A2 milk with this

CageyH
15-09-2018, 10:24
I see no hand :scratch:

Here is an attempt of a hand....

https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1849/43939753854_4e61ac4c87_z_d.jpg

I only managed two fingers of a left hand...

struth
15-09-2018, 10:28
The claw. [emoji3]

julesd68
15-09-2018, 16:24
How about that for a tidy looking cappuccino?

Tasted pretty good too ... Not of my own making I hasten to add - respect is due to The Food Room in Highgate, a lovely little cafe. :)

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1880/44695973441_1874c08c09_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2b6CxHK)

Marco
15-09-2018, 16:34
Nice one, Jules. I like how they've done the chocolate! I might try that:)

Marco.

Marco
15-09-2018, 16:46
Returning to the milk thing...


Btw, has anyone experimented with different types of milk, say whole vs. semi-skimmed, normal vs. organic, etc?

I'm currently experimenting with different types. Whole milk defo froths up more, but for my tastes is a little too rich, so I prefer the results I'm getting with semi-skimmed.

What I need to decide on now is whether or not the various types of organic semi-skimmed milks available, particularly those from so-called 'specialist' producers, when used to make a milky coffee, taste any better than their non-organic counterparts.

I'll be testing a few soon, so watch this space!:cool:


I've now tried a few, and the clear winner *so far* is this:

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/640x480q90/921/RHMTwp.jpg

Probably because it's produced just up the road, but it's so much creamier and more natural tasting than bog-standard semi-skimmed, and froths beautifully!:)

Marco.

Audio Al
15-09-2018, 16:53
Returning to the milk thing...



I've now tried a few, and the clear winner *so far* is this:

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/640x480q90/921/RHMTwp.jpg

Probably because it's produced just up the road, but it's so much creamier and more natural tasting than bog-standard semi-skimmed, and froths beautifully!:)

Marco.

Somewhat out of date Mr Marco ;)

Marco
15-09-2018, 17:04
Not my pic, Mr Super-Daftee!:ner:

Why would I have six pints of milk in my fridge, when it's only me who has cappuccinos?:doh:;)

Marco.

tapid
15-09-2018, 17:06
Don't tell him that he only used it this afternoon !

Marco
15-09-2018, 17:15
Al knows I prefer sheep juice, anyway!:D

Marco.

Beobloke
15-09-2018, 17:36
Bugger. I knew I forgot something when I went shopping earlier - coffee beans!! :doh:

Bloody instant again tonight, then... :rolleyes:

User211
15-09-2018, 18:33
Just remember if it has been homogenised it has been destroyed.

I never use semi-skimmed. It isn't milk. It is ruined.

Full cream Jersey or the local milkman's full cream is all I really touch.

That said I don't froth my milk (I microwave it) and I drink it with a very high milk to coffee ratio. About the same as a medium Costa, and I drink it in an Avex thermos.

Semi can froth well, though.

Costa use Freshways milk if you like Costa.

Marco
15-09-2018, 18:40
Just remember if it has been homogenised it has been destroyed.

I never use semi-skimmed. It isn't milk. It is ruined.

Full cream Jersey or the local milkman's full cream is all I really touch.


Fair enough, but it doesn't taste "ruined" to me, in the context I use it, far from it. I find full-cream milk too rich/fatty for making cappuccinos. Fine on its own though, or poured over cornflakes:)

Marco.

struth
15-09-2018, 19:48
https://duetogsaij514.cloudfront.net/images/products/11/LN_813277_BP_11.jpgThis stuff is good if you have issues with milk. This microfoams well. very tight bubbles when steaming

struth
16-09-2018, 09:13
Afraid it got mostly drunk before I took pic. The pattern stayed tho

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180916/fdf1c0b96707019f362e6c584a5a1455.jpg

User211
16-09-2018, 10:17
Fair enough, but it doesn't taste "ruined" to me, in the context I use it, far from it. I find full-cream milk too rich/fatty for making cappuccinos. Fine on its own though, or poured over cornflakes:)

Marco.I understand what you are saying.

I kind of resent what the supermarkets have done with milk. It is no longer milk. As a drink in the glass by itself, it mainly just tastes dreadful. So much of it is homogenised and probably watered down.

Sainsbury's Taste The Difference Jersey milk is OK as is Graham's if it isn't the homogenised version aka smooth. That's shite.

User211
16-09-2018, 10:39
Why I don't post coffee pics... generally:)https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180916/5fcd79cb4010ea0172f528dfd0eb16be.jpg

User211
16-09-2018, 10:46
So there's half a pint of full cream microwaved for exactly 2 minutes 30 secs in a 900 Watt microwave.

With a 35-50 g shot of coffee (sorry weight of liquid shot in the glass shot cup) from a double shot of the freshly ground coffee of choice.

Love it. Lasts much longer than a cup, stays hot, can be enjoyed over anything from 15 minutes to an hour or way more with occasional sips.

One per day. Very, very rarely, two.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180916/58fc4409425611c86cb581750c213820.jpg

struth
16-09-2018, 15:15
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180916/ade888d6c24bd472216ad36aa666d870.jpg

Marco
16-09-2018, 16:44
I understand what you are saying.

I kind of resent what the supermarkets have done with milk. It is no longer milk. As a drink in the glass by itself, it mainly just tastes dreadful. So much of it is homogenised and probably watered down.

Sainsbury's Taste The Difference Jersey milk is OK as is Graham's if it isn't the homogenised version aka smooth. That's shite.

Fairy muff, but I'm not a milk drinker. I hate the stuff on its own, which is why I don't have cereals. I only consume milk in conjunction with other things, such as coffee. Therefore, for my purposes and tastes, quality semi-skimmed is best:)

Marco.

P.S Your coffee/milk in those containers (shown in post 713) look good. Why not combine it together in a nice cup?

struth
16-09-2018, 16:48
Never keen on white stuff either but must say the goats milk I quite like in cereal and add extra now

Marco
16-09-2018, 17:03
I've still to try some goatee juice....

Marco.

struth
16-09-2018, 18:26
Worth a try sometime the goatee juice.

User211
16-09-2018, 18:36
Fairy muff, but I'm not a milk drinker. I hate the stuff on its own, which is why I don't have cereals. I only consume milk in conjunction with other things, such as coffee. Therefore, for my purposes and tastes, quality semi-skimmed is best:)

Marco.

P.S Your coffee/milk in those containers (shown in post 713) look good. Why not combine it together in a nice cup?Huh? Regards cup I told you why not.

I basically like my coffee Costa style but with much better coffee beans in a vastly superior container.

Cups are so yesterday.

Marco
16-09-2018, 18:52
Interesting, enjoy. I'm the opposite, I like my coffee in a nice mug:)

Marco.

User211
16-09-2018, 18:58
So do I. When buying it from one of the few places able to make a decent cup.

But I prefer it as a long drink in an excellent thermos. Tried to get my brother into it. Failed. He is from a less advanced version of the human species, obviously:D

Marco
16-09-2018, 19:17
Lol... Can't say that would do anything for me, but hey, you like what you like!:cool:

Marco.

User211
16-09-2018, 20:22
Lol... Can't say that would do anything for me, but hey, you like what you like!:cool:

Marco.You get so used to it that way on the morning commute it becomes the norm.

Commuters note this IS the way...:wink:

struth
17-09-2018, 09:03
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180917/b9f37e992f3924eca009e34d551bcad4.jpg

Minute adjustment to grind

Beobloke
17-09-2018, 12:00
Worth a try sometime the goatee juice.

When I was young, my eczema used to be exacerbated by dairy products and my mother read that goat's milk was better for this.

As a result, she purchased some and added it to my coffee once without telling me. Five minutes later she asked why I was pouring it down the sink and I replied that I was making a fresh one and would she like one too as, from the taste, the milk was clearly off.

Utterly vile stuff IMHO! :vomfest:

struth
17-09-2018, 12:02
When I was young, my eczema used to be exacerbated by dairy products and my mother read that goat's milk was better for this.

As a result, she purchased some and added it to my coffee once without telling me. Five minutes later she asked why I was pouring it down the sink and I replied that I was making a fresh one and would she like one too as, from the taste, the milk was clearly off.

Utterly vile stuff IMHO! :vomfest:

maybe need to try it again...it maybe was off :) cant say it tastes anything other than nice and creamy

struth
17-09-2018, 12:08
it contains less lactose, 13% more calcium, 25% more vitamin b6, 47% more vitamin a, and 134% more potassium than regular cow's milk. Fresher the better, and in cereal tastes similar but imo better. There is no doubt though that some folk dont like it. Sometimes thats fair comment and sometimes its psychological. i was very unsure about it initially.

Beobloke
17-09-2018, 12:22
maybe need to try it again...it maybe was off :) cant say it tastes anything other than nice and creamy

To be fair, goats cheese tastes like solidified chunder to me as well, so I may be a lost cause!

struth
17-09-2018, 12:38
To be fair, goats cheese tastes like solidified chunder to me as well, so I may be a lost cause!

:eek:

struth
17-09-2018, 13:26
New coffee this afternoon. Monsoon Malabar from India. This is left out in the monsoons for 3/4 months to change its acidic content. It can also be done artificially but tmk this is a natural one

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180917/2188cb7f3b7415ae19ef29613b7aa40f.jpg

Wasn't sure about it as after grinding it didn't smell great BUT it tastes great.
Glad I bought 2 packets now.

Marco
17-09-2018, 13:28
To be fair, goats cheese tastes like solidified chunder to me as well, so I may be a lost cause!

I get more of an acrid tang of stagnant pish.

Marco.

struth
17-09-2018, 13:29
I get more of an acrid tang of stagnant pish.

Marco.

yir beak is too close ti yir ass :ner:

Marco
17-09-2018, 13:40
Ha - more like my nose is sensitive to the unmistakable pong of your dirty laundry basket!:D:eyebrows:

Marco.

Ian7633
17-09-2018, 14:13
Just wondered if anyone here likes Greek or Turkish coffee?. I had a Greek friend years ago who made the most amazing coffee. Two teaspoons of ground coffee, has to be very finely ground and a teaspoon of sugar in a traditional Briki pot, constantly stirred over a low heat but not allowed to boil, just enough to form bubbles on the surface. Served in an espresso cup unfiltered accompanied by a glass of cold water.
Now I've thought about that I'm off to buy a Briki for myself.

struth
17-09-2018, 14:15
my grinder can grind that low, and its powder. i tried it once, and dont know if it was done right but it wasnt for me.

Beobloke
17-09-2018, 14:21
New coffee this afternoon. Monsoon Malabar from India..

Ah, now you’re talking! One of my favourite coffees. Reminds me - haven’t had any for a while...

Ian7633
17-09-2018, 14:29
my grinder can grind that low, and its powder. i tried it once, and dont know if it was done right but it wasnt for me.

You need to use a Turkish or Greek blend of beans I think. It is one of those love it or hate it tastes though.

Svend N
17-09-2018, 15:48
Just wondered if anyone here likes Greek or Turkish coffee?. I had a Greek friend years ago who made the most amazing coffee. Two teaspoons of ground coffee, has to be very finely ground and a teaspoon of sugar in a traditional Briki pot, constantly stirred over a low heat but not allowed to boil, just enough to form bubbles on the surface. Served in an espresso cup unfiltered accompanied by a glass of cold water.
Now I've thought about that I'm off to buy a Briki for myself.

Ian, we've made this quite a number of times over the years, though not for a long while. We love it. Can't think why we don't brew it more often. It's delicious.

Couple of hints... Add a cardamon pod to the brewer, which I believe is traditional in Turkey; gives a nice complexity to the flavour. I don't think you need any special beans if you grind your own; any med-dark roast, espresso style bean should taste good. You will need a very good grinder to get the fine powder req'd for this brew; a proper espresso grinder will do it, but those are pricey; maybe an inexpensive hand grinder would be the answer. The trick to brewing is to let the foam rise in the neck of the ibrik, but without boiling and without overflowing; remove from heat just before it overflows, and repeat a couple of times, that way you'll get a lasting foam in the cup...I'm sure you can find instructions on the web...

Enjoy!

Svend

struth
18-09-2018, 09:51
Monsoon again

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180918/c00c5e50566e8a1ea6c0eede35903af5.jpeg

User211
18-09-2018, 21:49
Some shit in a cup.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180918/a96ae83e0855c2853cc0e5166c2be406.jpg

User211
18-09-2018, 21:54
Three shits later.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180918/6df971df20b5b45f8a8cd3def65f19b1.jpg

Audio Al
18-09-2018, 21:58
If your shit looks like that you need medical help ;)

User211
18-09-2018, 22:07
Extra plain shit.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180918/9dc71e47803ea23e01b38409ab7c2681.jpg

User211
18-09-2018, 22:10
Three doctors later.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180918/db264eede1a1f51a570238ca8e3a6ac0.jpg

struth
19-09-2018, 13:49
Extra primo good

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180919/7fcaedd9fc623a7954c6fcd9076a21cd.jpg

Beobloke
19-09-2018, 15:01
These cappuccinos are making me sad.

My beloved coffee machine has decided to stop frothing the milk so only black coffees are available.

Going to take it apart tonight to see what’s going on,

struth
20-09-2018, 13:44
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180920/420eaa309a482917209e9d5eca2fe2d6.jpeg

Monsoon time again.

that one was fab...

User211
20-09-2018, 19:39
Golden brown plus one sip.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180920/b199a6fe521081502373876e8ba31cc2.jpg

struth
21-09-2018, 14:29
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180921/61a901fbae2054b58449e3120bc6dd74.jpeg

Halfway down b4 I remembered