Making Espresso at Home
Use a Steam-Powered Machine to Make Fresh Espresso at Home
Don't be intimidated by fancy espresso machines. You can start making your own lattes and cappuccinos right at home with a basic model. It's really quite simple.
If you love espresso-based drinks (like lattes or even real iced cappuccinos), you may find that you are spending way too much time and money ordering them at your local coffee house. Why not make fresh espresso right at home?
Though it's a step beyond brewing coffee, there is no reason why you can't become a veteran espresso maker. You don't have to spend a fortune on a basic steam-powered espresso machine, and it's easy enough to learn how to use it for great espresso.
These are just basic instructions, to show you how easy it can be. Make sure you read the manual that comes with your specific model of machine to ensure that you are using it correctly and safely. Steam espresso machines operate under pressure once they are running, so it's important that everything is securely attached and closed when operating the machine.
Here is how to make espresso, in 6 simple steps:
- Open the reservoir of the machine and add enough water for the number of cups of espresso you plan to make. Remember that espresso is typically made in small "shot glass" amounts, rather than a full mug.
- Unlock and remove the handle with the little cup on the end, also known as the porta-filter (see photo below). Most machines will just have you twist the handle to one side in order to remove the porta-filter.
- Add finely ground coffee into the cup of the porta-filter. About 1 tbs for each cup of espresso you're going to be making.
- Replace the porta-filter, giving it a twist to lock it in securely. The machine will be operating under pressure, so make sure that it is snugly in place.
- Place a small espresso cup, called a demi-tasse cup under the spout (usually under the porta-filter).
- Hit the brew button. This step may vary, depending on your machine. More sophisticated espresso makers will allow you to customize the pressure and time of your "pull". Since you are just starting out, it's likely your machine is fairly simple and will have a pre-set cycle.
Pressure will build-up in the machine (which might be slightly noisy) and then the hot water will be forced through your coffee grounds to make a nice little cup of espresso. There should be a light foamy layer on top as well.
That's all there is to it. Not much more than add water, add coffee grounds and hit start. Why not start brewing your own espresso today?
Stay tuned for my next article to find some recipes for new espresso drinks, so you can work out your new-found skills.
