Espresso Brewing
Simple step-by-step guide to brew your coffee through an espresso machine.
- Grind the Coffee Beans: Start by selecting fresh coffee beans of your choice. For an espresso machine, you'll need a fine grind.
- Prepare the Portafilter: Remove the portafilter from the espresso machine and clean it thoroughly. Dry it before use. Then, add a measured amount of ground coffee into the portafilter. The standard dosage is around 18-20 grams for a double shot.
- Tamp the Coffee: Tamp the coffee grounds evenly and firmly using a tamper. Apply consistent pressure to create a level, compact puck. This helps with proper water flow during extraction.
- Before you insert the Portafilter: The group head should be brushed and let some hot water (2-3 seconds) run through to get rid of any excess coffee residue so nothing stands in the way of your perfect espresso.
- Insert the Portafilter: Insert the portafilter back into the espresso machine, ensuring it's securely locked in place. Position your cup(s) underneath the portafilter spouts.
- Start the Extraction: Start the extraction by pressing the appropriate button or lever on your espresso machine. The ideal extraction time should be around 22-28 seconds for a double shot. This time may vary depending on the coffee, grinder settings, and personal preference.
- Observe the Extraction: Pay attention to the flow of the espresso as it pours into your cup. The ideal extraction should have a steady, consistent flow, forming a dark, caramel-colored liquid with a thick layer of crema on top. We recommend you run your shots between 30-35ml per single shot.
- Adjust if Needed: If the extraction is too fast (under-extracted), the coffee may taste weak and sour. If it's too slow (over-extracted), the coffee may taste bitter. Adjust the grind size or the tamping pressure to achieve the desired extraction time and flavor profile.
- Enjoy Your Coffee: Once the extraction is complete, remove the portafilter from the machine and discard the used coffee puck. Your espresso shot is now ready to be enjoyed as is or used as a base for other coffee beverages like lattes or cappuccinos.
Remember, these instructions serve as a general guide. You may need to experiment and adjust various factors such as grind size, coffee dosage, and extraction time to find the perfect balance for your specific coffee beans and espresso machine.
For any questions or advice regarding your your coffee extraction, chat to our team of experienced coffee professionals, we will be able to give you professional advice. Enjoy it!