Wednesday, March 04, 2009

Product Review - Bodum Electric Santos Vacuum Coffeemaker 3000

This is a review of the recently discontinued Bodum Electric Santos Vacuum Coffeemaker 3000...we just don't get why they discontinued this product!

The Santos makes coffee under a vacuum.Water starts to boil in the bottom glass coffee jug, and then rushes up the tube to the upper glass bowl. Water mixes with the coffee, and after a couple of minutes, the coffee then runs back down to lower coffee jug ready for serving. This makes the best coffee we have ever had...period! We used to love french press and espresso the most, but the Santos Vacuum Coffeemaker makes french press quality..without the grindy sludge at the bottom of the cup!

This machine has its weak points, but they are few and far between...

Pros:
- Very Easy to use
- Setting timer is basic
- Stylish design
- Fun to watch brew...good conversation piece
- Very few parts
- Great for making batches of coffee and putting in a carafe for parts
- The BEST coffee ever...really hands down!

Cons:
- Plastic parts do seem thin in places and require delicate use
- Not the easiest to clean, but not very difficult either
- Cost of $90.00 a little steep

Our Experience:
- We have had this unit for over a year
- Use it weekly, sometimes more
- Use it for many batches during parties
- Have we mentions it makes the BEST coffee ever

Our "Espresso Shots" Rating 1=worst - 5=best








Final Thoughts:

- Rumors are they are re-vamping the design for re-launch and without the plastic flimsy pieces would have a 5 "Espresso Shots" rating

- Although discontinued you can buy them on eBay, but be warned they are expensive...

Monday, March 02, 2009

Brew The Perfect Pot of French Press

Perfect, non-bitter French Press

In the 1900's the press pot (known today as the French Press) became very popular. The French Press simply forces the coffee through the hot water using its fine filters. The great thing about French press is its short brewing times, its simplicity, and it makes very strong yet non-bitter coffee.

Here are some simple steps to make great French Press:

  • Freshly grind your beans with a burr grinder and using the largest grinder setting
  • Boil fresh cold filtered water
  • Remove the plunger from the French Press
  • Place the grounds in the bottom of the French press
  • Add the hot water and briskly stir
  • Let the grounds stand for about 5-6 minutes
  • Slowly press down the plunger to push the grounds down to the bottom

Suggestions:

  • Don't let your coffee sit in the pot. The longer it sits the more bitter it becomes. It is best to pour the French Press into a insulated carafe.
  • Serve with biscotti in the morning
  • Serve with favorite pie or cake in the evening

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