Coffee pod machines: Consumer tips
There are various coffee pod systems and numerous coffee varieties that you can enjoy with the push of a button. If you haven't been able to decide on a model so far, the following guide can help you out.
Coffee pads and coffee capsules replace filter bags and ground coffee
Filter coffee is widespread. However, many bitter substances are released from the coffee grounds during brewing. The long contact with water during brewing and the lack of water pressure are responsible for a slight bitterness. If you use a coffee pod machine or a device with a capsule system, you won't have this problem. Additionally, you don't have to wait for the coffee to drip through. Between switching on and removing the cup of coffee, it can take less than 60 seconds with a coffee pod machine. You also don't have to brew a whole pot or several cups of coffee. This makes the devices so popular in single households.
The operation of coffee pod and capsule machines
Both systems work with pressure when you press the coffee grounds from the pad or capsule. In coffee pod machines like the Philips Senseo, the device presses the water heated to 90 degrees through the compostable pad at 1.4 Bar. In a capsule machine, a hollow needle punctures the capsule and fills it with water at a pressure of around 15 Bar. In both pod machines and capsule machines like the Dolce Gusto or Nespresso from Nescafé, the water has only a short contact with the coffee. Therefore, the preparation is very quick. Unlike a conventional filter coffee machine, a machine with pods or capsules does not heat all the water in the tank first. Instead, the devices direct a portion into another tank, where it is heated.
Coffee pod machines are also suitable for other hot beverages
Since there are various pod inserts for the Philips Senseo, you can prepare not only coffee with the machine. It is also possible to make hot chocolate or various types of tea using the appropriate pads. The preparation is just as easy as with coffee. Some coffee pod machines and capsule machines not only work with powdered milk but also offer a separate tank for milk.
Pod machines are also suitable for guests
Of course, the compact devices are not only used in single households. Families or shared apartments also like to use the machines for portioned coffee. This allows you to quickly and easily prepare a cup when guests arrive. If you rarely drink coffee but enjoy tea, purchasing such a device is advisable. The fact that the machines are available from around 40 pounds should be an additional argument for coffee pod systems.
Collected facts about coffee pod machines
- The water tank of a pod or capsule machine holds an average of about 1.6 litres
- A coffee pod contains about seven grams of coffee
- Pod and capsule holders can be removed and cleaned with a single motion
- A large portion of coffee pods is fully compostable
