The Espresso Guide For Beginners

Introduction

You know that feeling whenever you walk into a coffee shop and smell the aroma wafting through the air? Well, then congratulations—you know what love feels like. And here at Best Coffee Espresso, we think it’s time to bring that love home.


Getting Started


To make espresso, you need an espresso machine. If you don’t have one, don’t worry. Watch this guide, bookmark it, kick back, and enjoy a nice cup of coffee. And please, don’t call it “expresso.”

Coffee significantly impacts our lives—not just because of its caffeine but also because of the ritual it brings. It’s the first thing many think about upon waking up, and it’s an excuse to connect with friends.


Choosing Your Espresso Machine


To brew espresso, you’ll need an espresso machine. Many are on the market, but we recommend a beginner-friendly option like the Breville Barista Express. This machine provides everything you need in one package and brews high-quality espresso. However, budget-friendly choices are also available if you need a less expensive option.

Once you have your machine, ensure it’s filled with water and that your portafilter is fitted with the appropriate basket for a double shot.


Types of Beans for Espresso


Many think only dark roasts suit espresso, but that’s a misconception. You can use any roast you like! Some of the best espresso shots come from medium-roasted beans. Roasting and origin affect flavor, so experiment with different options to find what you love. This process can add to the joy of making espresso at home.


Espresso Terminology


  • Portafilter: The handle that holds the coffee grounds.
  • Basket: The insert in the portafilter where coffee grounds are placed.


Weighing Your Coffee


It’s highly recommended to weigh your coffee, especially as you learn. For a double shot, aim for 17 to 18 grams of coffee. 

Here’s how:

  • Option 1: Zero out the weight of your portafilter, grind coffee, and weigh until it reaches the desired amount.
  • Option 2: Weigh beans first, then grind them into the portafilter.


Avoid leaving beans in the hopper. They tend to go stale quickly due to a lack of airtight sealing and potential heat exposure from the machine.


Grind Consistency


Grind consistency is crucial for a good espresso shot. The coffee will taste sour and acidic if the grind is too coarse. If it’s too fine, the shot may be overly bitter. Invest in a good grinder if possible, as the quality of your grind directly affects the quality of your coffee.

For a machine like the Breville Barista Express, start with a grind setting of 4 or 5 and adjust as needed.


Tamping


With your weighed coffee in the portafilter, it’s time to tamp:

  1. Leveling: Use a few taps to level out the grounds in the portafilter.
  2. Tamping: Hold the tamper like a doorknob, straighten your elbow, and press down evenly. The goal is to keep the tamp level without pressing too hard or too soft.
  3. Polishing: You can twist the tamper lightly to “polish” the grounds for an even finish.


Consistency is key—find the tamp pressure that works best for you and stick with it.


Extraction


Now for the final step—extraction:

  1. Portafilter Placement: Insert the portafilter filled with tamped coffee into the group head.
  2. Timing: Aim for a shot that takes about 25 to 30 seconds to pull, with a 5-second pre-infusion. Make sure the pressure gauge (if available) is in the espresso range.
  3. Taste: Your taste is the best indicator of success. Aim for a balanced shot—neither too sour nor overly bitter.


Crema Check


A well-pulled shot will have a layer of crema—a creamy top that forms due to emulsification. Crema contributes to flavor and texture and is essential for latte art.


Conclusion


And there you have it! We made espresso in the simplest way possible, achieving the best results. Remember to test and adjust to find what works for you. With practice, you’ll soon be enjoying high-quality espresso at home.


FAQs


1. What type of coffee beans should I use for espresso?

You can use any roast or origin you like. While dark roasts are popular, medium roasts can yield excellent results. Experiment with different types to find your preferred flavor profile.


2. How much coffee should I use for a double shot of espresso?

For a double shot, aim for 17 to 18 grams of coffee. Weighing your coffee ensures consistency in flavor.


3. What grind size is best for espresso?

A fine grind is generally best for espresso. For the Breville Barista Express, start with a grind setting of 4 or 5 and adjust based on your coffee’s taste.


4. How long should it take to pull an espresso shot?

The ideal timing for an espresso shot is about 25 to 30 seconds, including a 5-second pre-infusion. This may vary slightly based on your machine and settings.


5. What is crema, and why is it important?

Crema is the creamy top layer of an espresso shot, formed by emulsification. It’s crucial for flavor and texture and for creating latte art.

With this guide from Best Coffee Espresso, you’re ready to embark on your espresso journey!

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top