[Morning_Brew]

I'm a big java fan, but I am too consistent. I don't change up my coffee. Same grounds, same strength, same creamer. Now I know what most of you will say, "Go to the store and buy something you haven't tried before". The thing is, I'm a broke joke. Any advice as to how I can add some inexpensive variety to my morning brew? Advice and insight is greatly appreciated. Thanks!

[havasu]

For a cheap and easy change to your morning cup of joe, you might try adding a bit of cinnamon or cloves.

[Austin]

Originally Posted by havasu

For a cheap and easy change to your morning cup of joe, you might try adding a bit of cinnamon or cloves.

This. It will give you a change of pace.

You said your broke, but what does your coffee budget look like?

A grinder can go a long way in saving you some scratch. Whole beans are often cheaper and you can find a decent variety.

[Morning_Brew]

Well, I've already tried out cinnamon. I even filtered it into the coffee rather than sprinkle it into my cup. That works great, but it's nothing new. However, if I were to buy coffee beans, and this is probably a ridiculous question, could I grind them in a blender so I don't have to go out and buy a grinder?

[spiderjohn]

I've used a blender in an emergency, but didn't get a consistent grind - there was everything from fine powder to large chunks.

[Morning_Brew]

Originally Posted by spiderjohn

I've used a blender in an emergency, but didn't get a consistent grind - there was everything from fine powder to large chunks.

Haha, glad I'm not the only one with that idea! I may try blending them once, and if the results are horrifying, I'll look into getting myself a grinder.

[Austin]

Originally Posted by Morning_Brew

Well, I've already tried out cinnamon. I even filtered it into the coffee rather than sprinkle it into my cup. That works great, but it's nothing new. However, if I were to buy coffee beans, and this is probably a ridiculous question, could I grind them in a blender so I don't have to go out and buy a grinder?

I don't think it would be even enough.

I've seen some blenders advertised as having that capability (Ninja I think) but I still wouldn't trust ability to mean decent product.

Here's a decent one reconditioned for $20.

Cuisinart DCG-12BCFR Grind Central Coffee Grinder S.S. on eBay!

[corkybstewart]

Invest in a coffee grinder, a simple blade grinder is cheap.
If you feel really adventurous buy a Presto hot air popcorn popper and some green coffee beans and roast your own. With a little practice you'll be drinking the best, freshest coffee possible.

[KevinM]

Ugh, not a blade grinder if at all possible. Those things are good for spices, but not so good for coffee. Given that the OP was looking for inexpensive, a blade grinder will work, and ideally will eventually get a burr grinder. (Can then put the blade grider to use for spices or something). Then after the burr grinder, definately try roasting. At the very least, you can get a bit of variety by trying different beans. Some stores have a form of bulk coffee, though freshly roasted, and you can get as little or as much as you want or need. They also have their grinders that you can grind the coffee through if need be.

Any italian mart worth it's salt will have this type of thing. A place like Whole foods will have this as well. I've gotten as little as a dollars worth of coffee, just because, and sometimes I'll use it to mix in with what I have, or sometimes I'll try it as is.

[corkybstewart]

I agree blade grinders aren't the best but I did use them for 30 years and was still able to eke a little enjoyment out of my coffee. For spices I prefer a mortar and pestle.