Preparing Coffee, Tea and Espresso
By Lindsey Goodwin, About.com Guide to Coffee / Tea
The art of making coffee or tea is all in how you prepare it. There are lots of different ways to brew both tea or coffee.
Coffee/Tea 101
The place to start if you're new to the joys of coffee and tea. Lots of introductory material to help you get going.
Brewing Basics
If you're new to coffee or tea, you might need some basic instructions on how to brew up a good cup.
- Brewing Coffee in a Drip Coffee Maker
- Making Espresso in a Machine
- How to Brew Tea (1 cup)
- How to Brew Tea (a pot)
- How to Make Coffee in a French Press
- Hoe to Make Sun Tea
- How to Make Coffee in a Percolator
- Brewing Coffee in a French Press
- How to Make Espresso in a Moka Pot
Roasting
For the more adventurous coffee-drinker, you could try roasting your own beans. It's a bit more work, but the freshness is worth it.
Grinding
It only takes a few moments to grind your own beans. The difference it makes will surprise you. You'll need to know what grind your machine needs though.
Coffee Making
There are so many different ways to make your coffee, you don't have to settle for just one method. Experiment a little!
- Brewing Basics
- Ways of Brewing Coffee
- Campfire Coffee
- The Plunger Pot
- Top Ways to Make a Bad Cup of Coffee
Tea Brewing
Don't just toss a tea bag in your cup and hope for the best. A little bit of knowledge can ensure a superb cup of tea.
Water
Water is the base from which all tea and coffee springs. You need good water before you get started brewing.
- What is Hard Water?
- Before You Buy Water Filters
- How to Carbonate Your Own Water
- Top Water Filter Bottles
Kinds of Coffee
Coffee comes in a huge spectrum of varieties, each with it's own unique flavour and aroma.
Types of Tea
Even though it all comes from the same plant, there are more types of tea out there then you can shake a stick at.
Cream, Sugar and More
Half of the joy in a cup of coffee or tea, is what you add after it's brewed. A dollop of cream or milk, a spoonful (or two) of sugar, or even a shot of flavoured syrup.
