Turkish Coffee Pot (cezve/ibrik) XL 14 oz Review

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(More customer reviews)I seldom review products of any sort, sticking pretty much to books, but will make an exception for this one. This little item can indeed be called a "Turkish Coffee pot," but it should be more properly called an ibrik, or if in another part of that world, cezve. This is an attractive item being reviewed and one of the most important aspects is that it is made of copper rather than the flashy bronze. This is important because making Turkish coffee, if done correctly, is not something that can be done in seconds. Brass, takes for ever to heat up and does not stay all that hot once it does. Copper, on the other hand heats nicely and evenly.
To make a good cup of this stuff requires some experience and indeed experimentation if you have never done it before. Using an ibrik takes skill, for both the first and the second boil. Both boils need to be done very slowly, and to be honest, to get a true flavor, it is best to do this over a charcoal brazier. But I realize that is not likely to happen all that often, so I suppose a stove will do. Anyway, slow boil, both boils, and for goodness sakes don't think you are going to fill an American size cup with these wonderful little tools. Turkish cups are small, like in one or two nice sips. Also remember before you buy one of these things, there is NO filter! There should be NO filter! The coffee to be used should be grounded into a powder, even finer than espresso. Remember, this stuff is SUPPOSE to be strong. I recommend plenty of sugar which is best added in before you pour the coffee into the cup. You get use to the grounds after a week or so.
Yes, you drink the grounds. Do remember that after the first boil, get as much of the foam as you possible can as that is where the best flavor is located. Do not get in a hurry with the second boil, it will ruin the taste.
This particular ibrik being reviewed is good. It has a nice wooden handle and is attractive. As to washing it, I never like using detergent of any sort; rinsed and dried with a towel will do fine. Actually, if my wife let me, I would never was it at all. She if funny about that sort of thing though.
All in all, you could do much worse than purchasing this one. It is a bit fancier than I am use to, but it certainly functions as it should.
Don Blankenship
The Ozarks


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TRADITIONAL DESIGN These are hand made Turkish Coffee Pots (cezve/ibrik). Each piece is hammered into shape by experienced artisans in Anatolia. They are carefully etched with detailed designs, polished and then painted with bright colors! They look like pieces of art but made for everyday use. In addition to their distinctive designs, they have wood handles that will not get hot as you make your coffee. They are tin lined inside for durability and ease of cleaning. WHY COPPER ? Copper, more than any other metal is known for its ability to diffuse heat evenly and conduct it quickly throughout its surface. Hence, it is used all over the world as high-efficiency conductors of heat and are especially coveted for their ability to quickly bring water to a boil (there are some cezve/ibriks that are made with brass but these don't heat as well. In fact, some manufacturers use brass only for the handles so that they stay cool to touch). Copper cezves/ibriks are also easy to care for, needing only an occasional cleaning with a soft, damp cloth. Besides, copper pots look better and gain more character as they age - just like people do!

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Vitamix CIA Professional Series Variable-Speed Countertop Blender with 2+ HP Motor and 64-Ounce Jar Review

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(More customer reviews)However, please be aware that unit cannot handle heavy loads that thicken quickly. Be sure there is plenty of liquid if used on high speed. Unit twice in two weeks shut down on me, once for 8 hours because the ingredients thickened quickly (potato-leek soup). I had to finish recipe in my food processor. Because of this sensitivity, if I had to do it over again, I would put my investment elsewhere.

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With its 2-plus peak horsepower motor that generates blade-tip speeds up to 240 miles per hour, this versatile countertop appliance works great for blending, pureeing, chopping, juicing, grinding, and more. The blender features a laser-cut stainless-steel blade assembly that can crush through ice in seconds, container-to-base drive coupling made of durable metal-to-metal (not rubber or plastic) to ensure long-lasting high-quality performance, and variable speed control for processing at just the right speed for the task at hand. Flip the switch up to "high" for maximum speed or down to "variable" for adjusting the speed with the 1 to 10 control knob. Another switch makes it easy to turn the unit on and off. In addition, the blender's oversized 64-ounce BPA-free jar creates a powerful vortex that forces ingredients up from the blade and back down through the center to ensure thorough blending. Other highlights include a generous jar handle, a secure-fitting lid with a removable insert, and nonslip feet for stability during operation. Make everything from delicious homemade dips, pureed soups, and appetizers to creamy sauces, dressings, desserts, beverages, fruit smoothies, and more--the options are endless. An exclusive new recipe book comes included, "Recipes and Techniques from the CIA Master Chefs", which features over 20 recipes developed by the CIA's Certified Master Chefs. The blender also comes with an instructional DVD, an owner's manual, and a space-saving easel-style recipe book packed with over 300 easy-to-prepare recipes from some of the country's top professional chefs, including Joanne Weir, Michael Symon, and Hugh Carpenter. The blender measures 8-4/5 by 7-1/5 by 20 inches.

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illy Caffe Scuro Whole Bean Coffee (Dark Roast, Black Top), 8.8-Ounce Tins (Pack of 2) Review

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(More customer reviews)Upon hearing so much about illy, I thought I'd see what all the hype was about. After grinding the beans and pulling my first shot I was not impressed in comparison to my normal beans, the Bouchon Bakery House Blend by Equator Coffee from my local Bouchon Bakery in Yountville. After acquainting myself better with the bean (I'm about half way through the can) I am still not really all that impressed. There are certainly better beans for better prices out there. I would really put my rating somewhere between three and four stars, but having to go with one or the other I thought four was more appropriate. Don't get me wrong, it's a great bean but the flavor is not really all that complex. I think I will try the normal roast next. It could possibly be that the dark roast is over-roasted, missing out on some flavor which seems to be very common with dark roasts/"espresso roasts".

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The Illy caffe scuro whole bean (black top) coffee, 8.8 Ounce tins (pack of 2) is fine grind for use in all espresso machines.This product is 4 inches in height, 5 inches in width and 6 inches in length.

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Zojirushi CD-WBC40 Micom 4-Liter Electric Water Boiler and Warmer, Champagne Gold Review

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(More customer reviews)Who spends money on fancy water heaters? People who like to have fine control over the brewing of their tea. Also, probably some folks who like to have unusual gadgets so they can rub it in the faces of those who are less awesome, but for the sake of this review let's pretend you're not one of those people.
This particular Zojirushi holds enough water for 2-3 people to drink throughout the day. It boils the water first -- this takes about 15-20 minutes -- and then allows it to cool to one of four "keep warm" temperatures. The "keep warm" presets of 208, 195, 175, and 140 are perfect for most kinds of tea, cup o' noodles, baby bottles, and various kinds of water torture on intrusive guests.
The magnetic break-away cord is a fantastic feature that demonstrates Zojirushi's attention to detail. When your mother decides to rearrange your kitchen without warning, you can rest assured that the Zojirushi will be safe from electrical mishaps. Don't ask how I know this.
Other safety features include an automatic shut-down when it runs out of water, a dispenser that will not dispense until you "unlock" it by pressing a button, and a "steam-save" design that limits the amount of steam being vomited into your kitchen. This last feature is especially nice for those of us with wall cabinets extending over the counter. I like to steam my food on the stove, not while it's in storage, thanks.
This device is so simple to use that even my husband can do it. That said, due to the charming Engrish in the instruction book, at first I was under the impression that the timer existed to shut down the machine. I realized later that either my math skills were terrible, or in reality the timer was designed to start it up. Ignore the fact that I ended that sentence with a preposition. The point still stands. The good news is that having a timed start-up is more useful to me than a timed shut-down, so for once I was glad to discover further evidence that I am an idiot.
I had one concern prior to purchase. Would teapots fit under the dispenser? I am pleased to report that they can, despite the best efforts of the Zojirushi photographers to make it look like the spout is designed to work with cups alone. If you have an epic teapot that serves 300, you might have a problem getting it up under there. But a normal pot? Rock on.
This little device is now my favorite appliance next to the washing machine. Because as much as I love tea, I like clean underwear better.
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Note: Confused about which Zojirushi water heater to purchase? Check the comparison chart! Amazon links to this chart in the product description, but the average person manages to miss it. It's like a ninja, but with fewer pointy edges.
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Edit: It's now been over a year since I got my Zojirushi, and I am pleased to report that it still works like it's new. I have cleaned it twice with Zojirushi's cleaner -- sold in packets here on Amazon -- despite it never really looking like it needed cleaning at all. I did it simply because the company recommended it. I'm a follower like that. The Zojirushi has survived a move, three extreme power surges, and a switch to mineral-heavy tap water. I'm starting to wish Zojirushi had made my own body. I mean, think of the time I could save if I only had to be cleaned up twice a year! And I didn't survive the move in nearly as good a condition. Tsk. At least I'm not old enough for power surges yet.

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Perfect for serving hot beverages to a crowd, this electric water boiler and warmer provides up to 135 ounces of hot water for instant coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and more. The unit features a micro-computerized temperature-control system and four keep-warm temperature settings that include 140, 175, 195, and 208 degrees F. Simple one-touch controls supply a reboil button, which reboils water to 212 degrees F; a dispense button; an unlock button that must be pressed before pressing the dispense button; and temperature- and timer-setting buttons. The unit's energy-saving timer function--from 6 to 10 hours--automatically turns on the boiler at a later time to save electricity, and its LCD display shows the actual water temperature at all times, as well as the temperature and timer settings. The dispenser also comes with a cafe-drip dispensing mode, which decreases the amount of water dispensed to 60 percent of the normal setting, making it suitable for brewing cafe drip coffee. Even more, its steam-save function automatically lowers the power just before boiling to reduce the amount of steam emitted from the steam vent. Other thoughtful details include automatic safety shut-off, a wide window water-level gauge that shows how much water remains in the unit, and an interchangeable melody or beep indicator to alert the completion of the boiling process or a low water level. A removable 3-foot power cord, swivel base, carry handle, and easy-to-clean nonstick interior provide added convenience. The 700-watt water boiler and warmer measures 11-3/16 by 8-3/16 by 13-1/2 inches.

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Saeco S-PTP Primea Touch Plus Super-Automatic Espresso Machine Review

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(More customer reviews)Not only did this machine break after 2 months (an error message indicated that I had to return the machine to the manufacturer to have the "computer board" fixed), the customer service was awful. I had to call repeatedly to get help, including numerous messages with the Customer Service Supervisor, who never called me back at all. This machine is also very high-maintenance - if you're buying it for milk drinks, be prepared for an extremely rigid cleaning procedure, which is an enormous hassle. I strongly encourage people to avoid this machine. I would suggest the Jura Z5, which does cost about $400 more, but at this price point, save yourself the aggravation.

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Blending simplicity with state-of-the-art technology, this super-automatic espresso machine provides an array of convenient features. Its intuitive color touch-screen display makes it easy to prepare espresso or a favorite coffee drink with only minimal effort in just a few seconds. Brewing two coffee drinks simultaneously is also possible by simply touching an icon, and each of the six drink icons can be programmed for custom milk and coffee dispensing.
Equipped with a stainless-steel heating system, the espresso machine delivers a maximum pressure of 15 bars to pull the most flavor from coffee beans. Its patented brewing system adjusts for different coffee beverages from American coffee to deep espresso, and the adjustable grinder, doser, and pre-brewing cycle allow for coffee to be customized to individual tastes. In addition, the unit's ceramic grinder produces a more even grind, allowing perfect dosing and blending, and offering more control over the density and body of the coffee. The all-in-one machine grinds whole beans, doses the perfect amount of ground coffee, tamps, brews, and discards the used grounds into an internal waste box.
For added convenience, the espresso machine provides readily available "immediate steam" due to its reliable double boiler system, plus a fully integrated milk container and frother. Any milk that may be left in the machine after frothing or steaming is removed with push-button cleaning cycles. The unit's 68-ounce water reservoir can be lifted off the machine for convenient filling and comes fitted for Aqua Prima water filtration, which works to reduce flavor-altering substances and filter micro-particles and impurities. Other highlights include a coffee-bean storage hopper, an adjustable drip tray, a removable brew group for chemical-free cleaning, and a convenient swivel base for countertop use. The espresso machine measures 18 by 14 by 15 inches and carries a one-year limited warranty.

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Factory Reconditioned Cuisinart ICE-20FR Automatic Frozen Yogurt-Ice Cream & Sorbet Maker, White Review

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(More customer reviews)I purchased this in kind of a throwaway moment..."hey, a cheap ice cream maker, what the heck." I wish I had more of those moments! This is a great gadget. I used it for the first time last week and made exquisite Heath Bar Crunch in about 30 minutes. It tastes much better than store-bought ice cream.
The maker itself looks very nice. After freezing the bowl, you simply pour in your ice cream base (generally milk, cream, eggs and vanilla) and turn it on. It is loud, but it IS an ice cream maker...besides, for 15 minutes, can we not just deal? About 5 minutes before finishing, you add your goodies--chocolate chips, candy pieces, etc. I recommend freezing your creation another 1-2 hours afterward because the consistency can be somewhat like ice milk right away. The ice cream is even better 2-3 days letter if frozen covered.
Ice cream recipe books are a good compliment, but plenty of recipes are also available online at various places. Overall, I give this my highest recommendation. For the price, you can't beat it. The finished product is excellent and easily created. Cheers!

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Whatever your style, the Cuisinart Automatic Frozen Yogurt-Ice Cream & Sorbet Maker will help make a delicious frozen dessert to match it! Make fat-free sorbets, low-fat frozen yogurts, rich ice creams -- up to 1-1/2 quarts -- quick and easy!

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Froth Au Lait MINI Review

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(More customer reviews)We had been using the Nespresso Aeroccino Milk Frother for a few years now, but continued to have issues. We had to replace 2 units because they just stopped working, the milk continued to stick and burn on the bottom of the pot, it was very difficult to clean, and the reservoir size was very small. Our 3rd Aeroccino just died, and this time I was going to research and find a better solution. After digging around the internet, I found that the Froth Au Lait products were very well liked, and didn't have the issues I noted above, but the size of their reservoirs were much larger than the Aeroccino. We normally would make one or two cappuccinos at a time, and we didn't want a larger unit on our counter. Lo and behold we found this just released Froth Au Lait MINI. I had a few questions, so I contacted the manufacturer and was promptly speaking with the owner. She was extremely friendly and helpful, answering all of my questions, and confirmed that the MINI was best suited for our needs. This product made the best milk froth, was easy to clean, did not burn the milk, and the size of the reservoir was perfect for 1 to 4 cappuccinos (just adjust the amount of milk). We may have been the first to buy this product on Amazon, but for sure will not be the last.

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Froth Au Lait is proud to introducethe newest member in our family of frothers, the Froth Au Lait MINI.The all-new MINI with its sleek, compact design and award winning patented Froth Whip Technology, prepares the richest, long lasting froth ever!The MINI gives you high performance in a small format milk frother. With its glass pitcher and stylish design, it's an attractive addition to your kitchen and a perfect complement to any coffeemaker, single serve brewer, or espresso machine.Froth Au Lait's patented technology, together with a built-in heater, aerates and heats the milk into a long-lasting "meringue-like froth for the ultimate in specialty hot beverage making.Prepare delicious froth for cappuccinos, lattes, coffee, non fat dessert toppings and other hot beverages such as hot chocolate and chai tea.It's unique Flavor Hatch allows you to add syrups and powdersto enjoy extraordinary flavored froth for an unforgettable taste sensation. So easy to use and clean , you too can be a barista! Serves 2-4. For questions or more information contact Froth Au Lait at 310-212-5345, Mon-Fri. 9-5 Pacific Time.

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Saeco S-PR-SG Primea Ring Super-Automatic Espresso Machine Review

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(More customer reviews)Yes, this machine is very expensive. I was lucky enough to get it at a very very good price when amazon temporarily reduced the price, otherwise no way I would spend so much on something like this....
Anyway, this thing is quite simply awesome. My wife and I are now addicted to coffee :-) Latte machiatos and cappuccinos in the morning, espresso in the evening, hot milk for our daughter too!
The machine is totally automated, it will tell you when to clean it, when to add stuff, it will keep your cups warm, and did I mention it makes wonderful coffee? You can personalize how you want each of the different coffee drinks to come out, stronger, hotter, more robust. You can double the quantity of coffee coming out. It will accommodate various cup sizes, from espresso cups to large coffee cups. Did I mention it makes wonderful espresso/coffee :-)
Now the negatives: the machine is rather large so make sure you have the space for it, figure about a 1'X1' footprint of counter space, but it looks very modern and high tech. You do have to keep it clean, certain things have to be done about 15 minutes after your first cup (if you use the cappuccitore to make milk based drinks) but that is understandable as you want to make sure the milk doesn't start clogging everything. The water reservoir is not very large (you can get about 6 cups of coffee out of it) considering the size of the machine. You do have to learn to navigate the touch sensitive ring to get to what you want, I can imagine some people finding it frustrating. The machine does seem to have a lot of moving internal parts, when you use it you hear all kinds of mechanical noises in there, it makes you wonder how long that internal mostly plastic apparatus, called the Brew Group, will last; it's the heart of the machine. I am now drinking more coffee than ever!!!
All in all this thing is awesome, I hope it lasts a long time!

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Blending simplicity with state-of-the-art technology, this super-automatic espresso machine provides an array of convenient features. Its easy-to-use click wheel interface allows for scrolling through and selecting each menu option on the display with just a slight touch of the click wheel. And thanks to its exclusive, integrated Touch2Cappuccino system, it can prepare two cappuccinos or two latte macchiatos at the same time. The system consists of a milk container placed directly inside the machine; milk gets drawn from the container, frothed internally, and then dispensed into the cup.
In addition, its Saeco Brewing System (SBS) technology allows for making an infinite variety of coffee beverages from just one fully automatic machine and at the mere twist of a knob. Choose from an intense Italian ristretto (turn the knob to the right) or an American-style long coffee (turn the knob to the left). SBS satisfies all tastes, giving a full flavor and a truly unique creamy layer. Furthermore, the coffee dose in the extraction chamber can be fully manipulated, due to the pressure, which remains constant throughout the extraction cycle.
The espresso machine's ceramic grinder delivers a consistent grind and allows for perfect dosing and blending, while its Rapid Steam technology reduces the normal waiting time between coffee brewing and steam output to just a few seconds. Froth milk to make cappuccinos, lattes, and macchiato coffee at the simple turn of the steam knob. Other highlights include a drip tray that can be easily raised or lowered manually or electrically with a simple touch, allowing for different cup sizes; nanotechnology, which substantially facilitates the cleaning process and guarantees that all components in contact with milk are perfectly clean; a 68-ounce removable water tank; and an Aqua Prima water filter to remove impurities from water for improved coffee taste and protection from limescale damage. The 1500-watt espresso machine measures 18 by 14 by 15 inches and carries a one-year limited warranty.

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Lavazza Crema & Aroma Espresso Point Machine Cartridges, 100/pack Review

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(More customer reviews)With the pods & the Lavazza machine you get a shot of espresso with the push of the button. The pods make it super easy (though they're probably not eco friendly). I have a double espresso every morning and have found the crema to consistently produce the most flavorful and creamy espresso shots. While the crema is strong espresso, it does not produce the jolt that some coffee house espressos do. On the other hand, it is smoother, less harsh and very "drinkable". The coffee houses have not been getting my money in the morning for quite a while now.

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