For under $100, you can get started making delicious coffee. Here is what I suggest to get started—low cost, right away. Buy these:
- Coffee maker: AeroPress. Buy 1 or 2: $29 each.
http://amazon.com/AeroPress-80R11-Coffee-Maker/dp/B000GXZ2GS - Ground coffee: Lavazza. Eventually move on to fresh beans, but start with ground: $17 for 4 bricks.
http://amazon.com/Lavazza-Crema-Gusto-Ground-8-8-Ounce/dp/B001E5E0D8 - Ground coffee storage: CoffeeVac. Keep sealed at room temperature away from sunlight: $12.
http://amazon.com/Coffeevac-Ultimate-Vacuum-Sealed-Container/dp/B0046JG8WA - Thermometer: Norpro. Know the temperature of your water or milk: $8.
http://amazon.com/Norpro-5981-Espresso-Thermometer/dp/B000EUGXRA - Hand frother: Kuissential. If you do milk drinks: $18.
http://amazon.com/Electric-Milk-Frother-Kuissential-Slickfroth/dp/B01BXQA7IY
That’s it. Under $100 to get started. Don’t think about espresso machines, coffee grinders, electric frothers, roasting machines, and other fancy equipment. You can dream, but start with the basics. Start slow. Build your knowledge and skill first. Your increased knowledge and skill (and pocketbook) will help you make future purchases.
Aficionados:
That said, if you have the money to purchase what I currently use (or recommend), check out my Recommendations page. It will save you money in the long run.
Coming up!
We’ll dive into how to use your AeroPress to make your first hand-crafted single-serve coffee!