Gone are the days when there were only one or two types of coffee brewing methods. Nowadays, when you hear the word “coffee brewing,” you can probably name a few ways to brew a good cup of coffee.
I’ve tried many methods and still can’t seem to decide on which brewing method is the best, but I know hot water is crucial when making pour-over coffee. Though simple, the pour-over can deliver a delicate cup of coffee.
In order to make a good pour-over coffee, it really helps if you have the best gooseneck kettle to do the job.
A gooseneck kettle is a must-have gadget for coffee lovers who enjoy making pour-over coffee. It boils water on the stovetop like any other kettle. The difference is, gooseneck kettles feature a long and narrow spout that resembles the neck of a goose. And it’s designed to better maneuver.
It might look funny to some people, but a gooseneck kettle will make your pour-over brewing experience a lot better and easier. A good gooseneck kettle should feel comfortable to hold and keep your hands from burning while pouring. Furthermore, it should give you precise control over the water flow rate with minimal movement of the kettle.
In this review, we will look into the details of the Zell gooseneck kettle, a kettle that is safe to use on all types of cooktops – gas, electric, and induction stovetops.
Design
This kettle might not be the best looking gadget on the market, but the gooseneck shape of the spout is designed to grant you a high degree of control over pouring hot water onto your coffee ground. You should not be in a hurry. For the best result, the water must be poured slowly in a circular pattern when making pour-over coffee.
The curved neck allows you to adjust your pouring rate from a trickling water stream to a full stream. Therefore, it will enable you to be in charge of the water placement, volume, and the duration during the pouring process. For pour-over coffee, this precision pour control is essential and can lead to a dramatic difference in the consistency of the coffee.
The Zell gooseneck kettle is made from stainless steel and is polished to a high gloss mirror finish. The stay-cool handle is specially designed to allow a full hand slip-resistant grip to eliminate the danger of touching the hot kettle when pouring.
Quality
The Zell gooseneck kettle is made of 304-grade stainless steel (also known as 18/8 grade stainless steel, which is the most commonly used stainless steel) and has a 6-cup (a hefty 47 oz.) capacity which is great for serving the whole family. A larger size kettle will let you keep on brewing without having to worry about refilling constantly.
However, one issue with this kettle is that its thin metal tends to lose heat very quickly and does not keep the temperature up to par for long. That being said, either you have to brew your coffee quick or reheat the water on your stovetop more frequently.
Maintenance
Cleaning a kettle on a regular basis is essential to keep your gadget in tip-top condition and increase its lifespan. Lime scale or hard water stain is commonly accumulated inside a kettle in places where the water remains standing. This white chalky residue can be removed easily by using household vinegar. Simply pour vinegar inside the kettle and let it soak overnight and you will wake up to a sparkling clean kettle.
Pros
• Can be used on any stovetop with no power cord attached
• All stainless steel interior
• Precision pour spout
• Comfortable and ergonomic handle
• Mirror finish will complement most kitchens
• Budget-friendly
Cons
• Doesn’t hold heat for long
• No built-in thermometer
• The lid doesn’t fit tightly
Conclusion
Overall, this is a good gooseneck kettle for your money. It is not the fanciest kettle on the market, but if you are looking for a basic gadget to start your collection, this kettle could be an excellent choice. It will get the job done, and you’ll likely be satisfied. Happy brewing!
