The Subtleties of Making Espresso

Originated in Italy, espresso has become one of the most popular coffee drinks in the world. A shot of espresso helps people wake up and powers them with energy. Also, it is a base for a large number of different coffee drinks.

Even though it seems like an easy task to prepare a shot, there are many secrets that only skilled baristas know. Down below, we'll review the subtleties of brewing a shot of your favorite drink.

Pick Perfect Coffee

It's impossible to prepare a shot of outstanding espresso by using poor-quality beans. If you don't have the best blend yet, you need to choose your coffee wisely.

Espresso needs dark and traditionally roasted coffee beans. Don't hesitate to surf the Internet to find good beans for espresso.

Also, you can ask a coffee brewing expert for recommendations. Note, some blends may deliver particular taste notes like nuts, chocolate, or fruits. Therefore, the bean choosing stage is crucial.

Grind Coffee Beans

You should grind beans properly for the best mug of espresso. The ground coffee has to be 0.25 – 0.5 mm; similar in size to salt or powdered sugar.

The grounds need to create a solid structure to slow water penetration and create high pressure. It's recommended to use automatic grinders for creating fine coffee powder.

Preparing Coffee Using Espresso Machine

The best way to create a shot of this drink is by using an espresso machine. It helps brew barista-grade java fast.

This type of machine heats water and releases it under high pressure, which is impossible to achieve without special equipment.

If you have an espresso machine in your kitchen, feel free to follow the guide below.

Clean Portafilter

Cleanliness is key to excellent espresso brewing.

You need to take out the portafilter and clean it under a faucet to remove all leftovers. Leftover coffee grounds will add bitterness and spoil your shot if you don't remove them.

Then, dry the portafilter by using napkins to remove moisture and other dirt.

Measure and Tamp Coffee Powder

A single shot of espresso needs to be brewed by using 7 grams of coffee powder. If you want to get a double-shot, use 15 grams of ground coffee.

It's vital to measure the necessary amount of powder for brewing espresso. Some automatic grinders can release a pre-set dose of coffee.

It is essential to compress ground coffee to create a solid structure. Therefore, apply as much pressure as you can. You have to press for a long time and rotate the puck a bit to compress the grounds thoroughly.

Insert Portafilter and Start Brewing

At this stage, you need to attach the portafilter to the group head.

It's crucial to hit the brewing button simultaneously if you want your espresso shot to be perfect. Otherwise, the group head may apply excessive heat to the coffee powder and burn it, which will add bitterness to your drink.

Alternative Ways To Brew Espresso

If you don't have an espresso-making machine at home, you shouldn't go to a coffee shop. There are a lot of alternative ways of brewing it.

Scroll down below and discover how you can brew a shot without super expensive equipment.

Espresso in Aeropress

An aeropress is a cheap and convenient tool for brewing coffee. You can use it for preparing espresso shots as well.

You need to grab dark and well-roasted coffee beans and grind them. Then, put a few pieces of filtering paper into the drain cup to slow the flow of water.

Add three fluid ounces of water, two tablespoons of ground coffee, and press the plunger hard.

Espresso in Moka Pot

Having a moka pot, you can create a well-concentrated shot of espresso with ease.

To start, grind 20 grams of fine coffee beans. Get a moka pot, pour three fluid ounces of water, and add ground coffee. Feel free to shake the pot to get the powder that has settled.

After this, attach the spouted top and put it on medium heat. Then, wait until the top of the moka pot becomes full.

Espresso in French Press

If you want to prepare an espresso shot using a french press, you need to heat a cup of water first. Next, put two tablespoons of ground coffee into your french press and add a splash of hot water. Wait for 30 seconds.

Then, add all the heated water, close the lid, and leave it for five minutes. In the end, press the plunger slowly and enjoy your drink.

Note, a shot of espresso brewed by a french press is not quite as strong as other methods.

How To Drink Espresso

If you want to enjoy your espresso shot like a pro, it's not enough to simply prepare a stunning drink. You need to pick the right cup too. Usually, a ceramic one. However, Italian espresso lovers prefer drinking it from demitasse, a distinctive type of cup.

After pouring your drink in a demitasse, you need to skim the foam created by the high pressure and stir your drink.

Also, don't forget to take a sip of water before enjoying your espresso so you can truly enjoy its distinct taste.

What is your favorite espresso coffee drink?