From Experience: The Best Electric Gooseneck Kettle
Posted by Bean & Bean on
Gooseneck kettles revolutionized how we brew coffee. With their precise control and ergonomic function, they open up a new world of flavors in brewed coffee. First came the stovetop versions, followed by the electric kettles you see today. But as electric gooseneck kettles improve, they get more expensive.
So what is the best electric gooseneck kettle available? Learn what gooseneck kettles are, why people use them, and which one we think is the best for you!
What is a gooseneck kettle?
As the name alludes, a gooseneck kettle has a long, curved spout that resembles a goose’s neck and often has a protruding handle. Aside from appearance, gooseneck kettles are extremely important for precise brewing. The handle allows a comfortable and steady grip, while the elongated spout allows water to pour in a smooth stream. At the end of the spout, there is usually a minor groove that allows for even more water-pouring control.
Not only limited to water control, most gooseneck kettles will also display the temperature of the water through an embedded thermometer. Higher-end gooseneck kettles will have an electronic base that controls temperature and time. Gooseneck kettles are more sophisticated than your regular tea kettle, but why? What makes them different?
What are gooseneck kettles used for?
Coffee brewing is composed of two parts: coffee and water. Since coffee is 80% water, the tool you use to direct the water is more important than you think! In addition, the temperature and amount of water will greatly influence the taste of your brewed coffee. A regular tea kettle is not the most precise tool for pouring. Thus, people use gooseneck kettles for brews that require precision. Because of their intricate design, these kettles allow coffee enthusiasts to control the rate, temperature, and water flow during their brew. By controlling different aspects of water, brewers can achieve specific desired flavors in their cups.
There are two types of gooseneck kettles: electric and non-electric. Electric gooseneck kettles have an electric base that heats the kettle to the exact temperature water boils. They can also keep water at a constant temperature over time. Non-electric kettles, on the other hand, do not have most of these features and are standalone products. Sometimes, they have thermometers embedded in the kettle that will display the temperature, but it’s not as accurate as an electric estimate.
For those reasons, electric gooseneck kettles are the standard in every specialty coffee shop. You may have seen these types of kettles hiding in the coffee bar or used by the barista. However, not all of them look alike. There are dozens of electric gooseneck kettles on the market, ranging in size, color, finish, and price. Many electric gooseneck kettles are expensive and priced well over $150. Not everyone needs the fine motor control that some of the more pricey kettles provide.
Hario V60 Buono Power Kettle
The Hario V60 Buono Power Kettle is designed for pour-over coffee brewing with precise control speed, and coverage. This kettle boils water and automatically shuts off, so all you have to do is fill and turn it on. You can serve cordlessly with the kettle, which also rotates 360 degrees on the base. It’s perfect for a no-frills coffee brewing experience–just fill, boil, and serve.
The beautiful design of this kettle is also worth noting. Like other equipment in the Hario V60 line, the kettle is simple and clean. It has a natural honeycomb shape and a zen beauty. The excess power cord can be rolled up inside the kettle for added flexibility and a streamlined look. Because of its simple and classic styling, this is a popular option among coffee brewers.
Pros and cons
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The Hario Buono Power kettle is affordable compared to other electric kettles, priced at $90. |
Mineral buildup may occur inside if you use hard water. |
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It boils on an electric base and automatically shuts off. |
It cannot boil on a stovetop. |
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Made of stainless steel–durable. |
Requires a pipe cleaner to clean the gooseneck spout. |
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Comfortable, ergonomic handle grip. |
No temperature reading inside. |
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Smooth water pour. |
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Holds 800mL of water. |
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Lightweight and easy to clean. |
See it in action here: https://youtu.be/wQikRs9pRpo.
You can buy the Hario V60 Buono electric gooseneck kettle here.
How to make pour-over coffee using a gooseneck kettle
- Gather your electric gooseneck kettle, kitchen scale, grinder, coffee beans, and 400 ml of water.
- Heat the water to 200°F. You can either use a thermometer or simply bring the water to a boil. Then, let it sit for 30 seconds to get it down to 180° F.
- Measure and grind the coffee. A medium-fine grind, slightly more coarse than table salt, should be just right. We recommend grinding your beans immediately before making your coffee, or they may lose their flavor and aroma. We recommend grinding around 25 grams of coffee.
- Fold and place your choice of filter in your coffee dripper. Place the dripper on the decanter.
- Pour hot water through the filter to wet and wash away excess residue. Discard the water before brewing. You could save the extra water for your houseplants!
- Add the ground coffee to the filter and give it a soft shake to settle the grounds into a flat coffee “bed” that will increase extraction.
- Place the dripper and decanter on the scale and tare it to zero.
- Add enough water to the grounds to saturate them evenly, and let sit for 30-45 seconds to allow the coffee to “bloom.” Blooming is a chemical reaction where gasses are purged from the ground coffee
- Once the timer hits 45 seconds, pour the remaining water in a slow circular fashion on the outer circumference of where your coffee is sitting
- Stop pouring once you’ve added all 400 ml of water
- Allow water to drain
- Enjoy your coffee!
Conclusion
Electric gooseneck kettles are ideal for convenient, consistent, and precise coffee brewing. In our opinion, one of the best electric gooseneck kettles is the beautiful Hario V60 Buono Power. It’s durable and reliable, with a no-frills attitude. In addition, it’s affordable compared to other electric gooseneck kettles on the market, and is made to last. Grab yours here.
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