Brewing Instructions for Espresso Coffee

Brewing the perfect cup of espresso takes technique and practice.

Producing a satisfying cup of espresso requires techniques and skills independent of any equipment - though it helps to have an espresso machine. But the finest espresso machine in the world will only generate an average tasting cup if any of the variables necessary for brewing this type of coffee is off. Espresso machines range wildly in price, and depending on that price, different machines offer different features. Generally, however, these machines require a universal technique, which can be learned by any home barista.

Things You'll Need

• Finely ground coffee
• Espresso tamper

Instructions

1. Add filtered water to your espresso machine. A shot of espresso uses 1 to 1 1/2 ounces of water. Add more than enough water to compensate for the amount needed.

2. Add fresh, finely ground coffee to your espresso machine's portafilter. The ideal brew time for espresso is 20 to 25 seconds, though this is largely influenced by the coffee grind. If the grind is too large, water will filter through the grinds too quickly, weakening the flavor of the coffee. If a grind is too fine, water may be prevented from filtering through the grinds. Some trial and error may be required to create the perfect grind.

3. Use your little finger to distribute the grinds evenly across the portafilter.

4. Set the base of the portafilter against a table or counter. Press the espresso tamper gently into the grinds, using 5 pounds of pressure. This amount of pressure forms the grinds into a pellet. If you have a bathroom scale, press the scale to get some idea of the action required to achieve 5 pounds of pressure.

5. Press the espresso tamper into the grinds a second time, using 30 pounds of pressure. Rotate the espresso tamper 720 degrees, or two full turns, to "polish" the pellet of grinds.

6. Brush away any grinds from the lip of the filter. Be careful not to disturb the espresso pellet. An even pellet is necessary for water to filter evenly through the espresso.

7. Attach the portafilter to your espresso machine and place an espresso cup heated with warm water beneath the mouth of the portafilter.

8. Turn on the machine, and allow it to warm up. Likely, the machine will have a light that indicates when it is ready for use. During this time, water in the boiler is being heated to 190 to 196 degrees F.

9. Turn the dial or switch that causes the espresso to brew. Turn off the switch after brewing a single shot.

Tips & Warnings

• Efforts at making the perfect espresso often require trial and error. For the first few efforts, time the brewing process. If the brewing process takes longer or shorter than 20 to 25 seconds, adjust the grind accordingly and try again.

References

• Aabree Coffee Company: Key Ingredients in Perfect Espresso
• Coffee Research Institute: Espresso Tamping
• Coffee Research Institute: Espresso