ESPRESSO
Brewing great espresso takes a little practice and experimentation to master
WHAT IS ESPRESSO?
The art of espresso brewing is a mesmerizing dance of precision and passion, where skilled baristas unlock the full potential of carefully selected specialty coffee beans. Harnessing the power of an espresso machine, they unleash a torrent of hot water, meticulously timed and perfectly pressurized, to extract every nuanced flavor note and aroma hidden within the beans. It's a symphony of science and artistry, resulting in a divine elixir that tantalizes the taste buds and transports coffee lovers to the realms of sensory bliss.
To brew your espresso like a barista follow the instructions below.
HOW TO BREW ESPRESSO
1. Prepare your machine
Prepare your espresso machine for a flawless brewing experience by filling the water reservoir and activating its preheating prowess. Watch as the machine awakens, gradually reaching its brewing nirvana at the ideal temperature range of 195-205 degrees Fahrenheit (90-96 degrees Celsius).
2. Grind and dose coffee
Gently detach the portafilter from its resting place. With meticulous care, give it a thorough cleansing, erasing any traces of the previous performance.
Now, armed with 19.5g of freshly ground coffee, carefully cascade it into the portafilter, ensuring it descends like a fine dusting of confectioner's sugar.Then use your finger to gracefully distribute the coffee, creating a harmonious and even bed.
3. Pull a shot
Initiate the espresso extraction process by activating the grouphead and commencing the timer. Position a cup beneath the portafilter and observe the espresso as it gracefully streams into the cup. Aim for a consistent and steady flow, with the entire extraction ideally lasting between 23 to 28 seconds, resulting in a delightful 1.5 ounces of liquid gold.
Should the extraction time exceed the desired range or progress sluggishly, consider adjusting to a coarser grind. Conversely, if the espresso rushes through too quickly, a finer grind might be the key to achieving the perfect balance.
4. Serve and enjoy!
It's time to savor and indulge! Once the espresso shot has been successfully extracted, delicately detach the portafilter from the espresso machine, setting it aside for a moment. Pause and appreciate the velvety layer of crema resting atop the espresso, a telltale sign of a beautifully brewed shot. With utmost care, pour the liquid delight into a preheated espresso cup or demitasse, ensuring every precious drop finds its rightful place.
Now comes the moment of choice: relish the pure essence of the espresso as it is, or venture into the realm of creativity by using it as a foundation for tantalizing concoctions like cappuccinos, lattes, or macchiatos. Transform this liquid masterpiece by adding steamed milk or foam, and elevate your coffee experience to new heights.