Espresso making - art and science in one cup

Espresso is not just coffee - it's a whole philosophy. It's concentrated energy, aroma and pleasure all at the same time. And while espresso brewing in a coffee machine may seem simple, its nuances make it a true masterpiece. In this article, we'll take a look at the best ways to make espresso at home, which equipment to choose and where to start so that every sip is like something from an Italian café.

What is espresso?

Espresso is a concentrated coffee made by forcing hot water under pressure through finely ground coffee beans. It is characterised by its strength, dark colour and rich 'crema' - the golden foam on top that indicates a properly brewed espresso.

It is also the base for many other drinks, including cappuccino, latte and americano. Understanding how to make espresso can therefore enhance the whole coffee experience.

Which coffee machine to choose?

Not all coffee machines have the same ability to make espresso. Here are some common types:

Manual espresso machine - allows complete control over every step, but requires knowledge and practice.
Semi-automatic espresso machine - the most popular option at home. You just press a button, control the grind level and press coffee.
Fully automatic espresso machine - at the touch of a button, you'll have the perfect espresso.
Capsule coffee machines - fast, convenient, but often lose the authentic taste of espresso.

The choice depends on your lifestyle, your budget and your desire to delve into the world of coffee.

The key elements for a perfect espresso

1. Coffee beans

Choose freshly roasted Arabica beans. They are milder, with a fruity or chocolatey aftertaste. Grinding should be done just before brewing - this ensures an intense aroma.

2. Grain size

Espresso coffee has a very fine grind - like salt. Beans ground too coarsely will produce a watery coffee, while beans ground too finely will produce a bitter taste.

3. Dosage and tamps

Usually 18-20g of coffee is needed for a double espresso. The coffee should then be pressed (tamped) evenly and firmly. This step determines how smoothly the water will flow through the coffee.

4. Water temperature and pressure

The ideal water temperature is 90-96°C and the pressure is 9 bar. A good espresso machine ensures these parameters are accurate.

5. Extraction time

The espresso should run out in 25-30 seconds. Faster - the taste will be underdeveloped, longer - too bitter.

Common mistakes made when making espresso

Incorrect grinding or dosing
Irregular cleaning of the coffee machine
Low quality beans
Incorrect swabbing

Avoiding these mistakes requires both practice and quality equipment.

The history of espresso dates back to Italy, at the beginning of the 20th century. The word "espresso" means "squeezed" - and that's how the drink is made. Espresso making is an art that everyone can enjoy at home. With the right knowledge, equipment and passion, you can create the perfect drink - just like you'd sip in a small café in Rome. Choose the best beans from arabikakafija.lv and let your world of taste open up again!