Keurig: Perfect Coffee for Freelancers

Posted by Crispee | February 20, 2009 | Filed under freelance, gadgets, recommendations

Ok, maybe not just for freelancers, but this is definitely a step up from the cheap “pod” type of coffeemakers I’ve tried and rather than waste a 1/2 pot of coffee I can make exactly how much I want/need/desire.

The Keurig B70 Gourmet Single-Cup Home Brewing System is everything that those other guys aren’t in my book – worthy of a place on my counter. I was a bit wary at first to invest in another coffee maker that didn’t allow me to use my beloved Starbucks beans in (well, you can technically but I usually don’t.)  Previously I had one of those pod brewers and was not impressed.  I like my coffee strong and those teensy little pods just didn’t cut it. So after my espresso machine started requiring more maintenance than my car I dove into the Keurig.

At first I was disappointed.  The samples that came with the machine produced lackluster coffee.  But I tried different brands and sure enough – the ones marked DANGER Extra Bold (okay I added the “danger” part) actually produce a pretty full-bodied cup of brew.  Enough to stand up to whatever sissified stuff I put into it.

Then I discovered the Green Mountain brand of K-Cups at Target and was hooked.  Finally, a cup of coffee that made me stand up and salute.

This little machine may not be everyone’s style or price range, but if you work in a small office or studio with many people having different tastes it will fit right in.

And for those that like it the old-fashioned way…

I must say I am a bit of a snob and really prefer coffee that comes from an old French Press.  Most real coffee people will tell you this is the only way to do it right.  Well, when you feel like spending a little more time pressing it French-style then just pull out the bottom, grind your beans coarsely, pull any pods out, let the water run in (at precisely 192 degrees) and let it steep.  Easy.

Recommended K-Cups (smoky, dark, rich ones I’ve loved)