Brief Summary
Lance Hedrick reviews the Nanofoamer Pro, an automated milk frother and heater designed for home use. He compares it to the original Nanofoamer and assesses its ability to create microfoam comparable to that produced by professional espresso machine steam wands. The review covers the device's features, functionality, ease of use, and cleaning process, as well as a taste test comparing milk frothed by the Nanofoamer Pro to milk steamed with a professional machine.
- The Nanofoamer Pro automates milk frothing and heating, aiming to replicate steam wand quality.
- It uses magnetic coupling to spin a Nanomesh frother at high speeds.
- The device includes flow controllers for different milk types and foam preferences.
- Cleaning is crucial due to the heated base, which can cause milk scum.
- Temperature control can be inconsistent, requiring monitoring.
Introduction to the Nanofoamer Pro
Lance Hedrick introduces the Nanofoamer Pro as a new product from Subminimal, designed to simplify milk frothing at home. It builds upon the original Nanofoamer by adding a heating base, similar to an electric kettle, to both froth and heat milk simultaneously. The goal is to provide a convenient alternative to steam wands, especially for those using manual espresso makers or who find steam wands difficult to use. Lance expresses his passion for achieving "Silky Milky" results at home and sets out to determine if the Nanofoamer Pro can deliver barista-quality milk texture.
Features and Functionality
The Nanofoamer Pro uses a thermocoil at the bottom to heat milk, similar to electric kettles. Inside the wand, Nanomesh technology, like the original Nanofoamer, creates microfoam as it spins. Magnets inside the device interact with a motor running at 8,000 RPM to spin the wand aggressively. The device includes magnetic silicon flow controllers to adjust foam thickness based on the type of milk used. The black controller is for dairy milk, while blue and clear options are for plant-based milks. Without a flow controller, the foam will be drier with bigger bubbles. The pitcher has two lines to designate where a metal plate is for the flow controllers to be magnetized to the side. The quantity is around 100 milliliters to 220 milliliters.
Making a Cappuccino
Lance demonstrates making a cappuccino with the Nanofoamer Pro. He emphasizes the importance of ensuring the lid is securely attached for the propeller to work correctly. After filling the pitcher with milk, he selects level two on the touchscreen for his desired microfoam consistency. While the milk is heating and frothing, he pulls a shot of espresso. The device beeps when it reaches 55 degrees Celsius and again at 65 degrees Celsius. Lance notes the importance of cleaning the device immediately after use to avoid milk scum buildup on the heated base.
Temperature Testing
Lance conducts a temperature test to monitor the milk's temperature as it heats. He stresses the importance of a fully seated lid for optimal results. The device is set to level two, and a thermometer is placed inside the milk. The first beep, indicating 55 degrees Celsius, occurs at 60 degrees, and the second beep, for 65 degrees, happens at 75 degrees. This fluctuation leads Lance to suggest monitoring the time and temperature manually for better control. Despite the temperature inconsistencies, the milk texture remains good, and the final beverage temperature is 58.4 degrees Celsius.
Taste Test
Lance enlists his wife, Lindsay, for a blind taste test comparing cappuccinos made with the Nanofoamer Pro and a professional steam wand. Lindsay finds the cappuccino made with the Nanofoamer Pro to be slightly better, indicating that the device produces excellent milk texture.
Foaminess Levels
Lance demonstrates the Nanofoamer Pro's highest foaminess level (level five) using the black propeller. The resulting foam is thick, allowing for a substantial amount to be scooped out. He notes that while removing the propeller creates drier foam, level five is generally sufficient for most users. He recommends starting at level three and adjusting as needed, with level two being suitable for a flat white texture.
Final Verdict
Lance concludes that the Nanofoamer Pro produces fantastic milk foam but has some issues. Milk scum can form quickly, and temperature control can be volatile if the device isn't cleaned regularly. He emphasizes the importance of a fully seated lid for proper functioning. Despite these drawbacks, the Nanofoamer Pro is capable of creating latte art-quality milk with a desirable texture. He recommends it as a valuable addition to his "Silky Milky Handbook" of products, especially for those seeking a convenient alternative to traditional steam wands.
