How to Brew Espresso Coffee

Brewing espresso sounds intimidating at first but can be accomplished in different ways. You make espresso by forcing hot water under high pressure through finely ground espresso beans. You can use an espresso machine or an Italian, stove-top espresso brewer. Both methods produce excellent shots for making lattes, mochas and other drinks. Brewing your own espresso also is cheaper than buying one at your local coffee shop.

Things You'll Need

• Espresso machine
• Stove-top espresso maker
• Espresso roasted beans
• Grinder
• Water

Instructions

Using an Espresso Machine

1. Grind the espresso beans on a very fine espresso setting or have your coffee retailer grind them for you. Espresso tastes better when it has been freshly ground.

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2. Remove the portafiler from the machine and fill it to the brim. Remove any excess espresso that is on top so that you have a perfectly level amount. Typically 2 tbsp. for a single shot and 4 tbsp. for a double shot of espresso. Tamp the espresso with a metal tamp until it is flat all the way across the basket.

3. Attach the portafilter on the machine and turn the machine on or press the brew button. Make sure the water basin or boiler is full and ready to brew before starting. The brew time should range between 18 and 24 seconds.

Brew with a Stove-Top Brewer

1. Unscrew the top and remove the filter and filter stem from the body of the brewer. Rinse out the espresso brewer with cool water.

2. Fill the bottom portion of the brewer with cool, filtered water to the fill line. Place the filter and filter stem back in the bottom portion.

3. Fill the filter with finely ground espresso to the brim. Screw on the top of the brewer, making sure there's no gaps or room for steam to escape.

4. Place on your stove top and turn the heat to medium. Wait a few minutes until you hear the water being forced through the filter. Once you see or hear this happening, turn the heat down to the lowest setting and let the brewer finish the process.

5. Turn off and remove from the heat. Serve and enjoy.

References

• Pulling the Perfect Shot of Espresso
• How to Pull a Perfect Espresso Shot
• Stovetop Espresso Pots

Resources

• Coffee Review