Barista!
July 8, 2008When using the term in English jargon, “barista” refers to one who has acquired some level of expertise in the preparation of espresso-based coffee drinks. Within certain circles, its meaning is expanding to include what might be called a “coffee sommelier”…
I don’t fit either description but, at some point in my foodie life, there came a time that I became very picky about the coffee I drink and the process of making coffee at home. I’m sure it had something to do with the growing popularity of the second greatest bean on earth. The first, without a doubt, being the cocoa bean.
A few months ago I found this little goodie on the internet at Michael Chiarello’s Napa Style site. I had been “shopping around” for months trying to qualify spending money I didn’t have on something I didn’t really need and low-and-behold Michael was offering a stove-top expresso maker for $7.99, no shipping charges included! I should have seen the writing on the wall and grabbed up a dozen because a few days after I ordered one the price jumped up to $14.99.
I’ve made coffee in drip coffeemakers for more than 30 years. I’ve used a home expresso/cappuccino maker by Braun since the mid 90’s.
I went through the coffee press stage, which I still consider to be a great way to ‘brew’ a cup of java. I’ve even made “cowboy coffee” right on the stove in a sauce pan.
And…. dun, dun, dun…. blood curdling scream…. I’ve even had instant coffee in my cup on more than one occasion.
NOTHING COMES CLOSE TO THIS STOVETOP PROCESS, NOTHING! Either straight shots, cappuccino or latté style, it’s fabulous.
I haven’t used my electric drip machine in weeks and I’ll probably never buy an electric coffee maker again.
I hope I’ve inspired you coffeeholics and aspiring Baristas out there to step-up your coffee tastes and skills. You wont regret it… I promise!
Thanks to the wonders of youtube and a user named Peter, here’s how the little bugger works:
2 Peter 3:14
[ Conclusion ] Therefore, dear friends, while you wait for these things, make every effort to be found in peace without spot or blemish before Him.
OK I really need to get myself one of those but like you I am at that point where I cant justify spending money I dont have on something I dont need but the little one cup coffee maker I have makes coffee that tastes like something out of the south end of a north pointed kangaroo (I know you know that one) so the next spare $15 bux I get…bla bla bla…
Sad, sad day, Michael isn’t carrying the $14.99 maker anymore and I’ve not been able to find one at a similar price. I’ll keep my eyes open and post any possibles when I see them. Maybe we’ll get lucky a second time.
[...] everything and run to my kitchen and pull out that old blender and see for myself. I proceeded to make some strong coffee. While it was fixin’ in my mocha pot I got out a wide mouthed mason jar and filled it half [...]
Moms! What great birthday gift! Love the Bialetti coffee maker! Your right about it being strong! I put about 1/3 coffee to 2/3 milk but I love it! Since I have so much left over I pour the remainder into a mug, add sugar and stick it in the fridge for iced coffee later. So if you like strong coffee or a little coffee with your milk like me this is the pot to buy! Thanks again Moms!
You betcha! Happy Birthday.
luv ya,
moms