Espresso Guide: How to Brew the Perfect Espresso at Home

Mastering the art of brewing espresso at home requires attention to detail, good technique, and the right approach. Follow this step-by-step guide to create an espresso that matches the experience from a coffee shop – rich, aromatic, and perfectly balanced.

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1. Select beans carefully

Experiment with roast levels to find the flavor profile that suits you best.

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2. Grind the beans correctly and fresh

A consistent and fine grind is essential for a well-balanced espresso. Use a grinder with adjustable settings so you can precisely adjust the grind size.

Grind size: Espresso requires a fine texture – about like table salt.

Fresh grinding: Grind the beans just before brewing to preserve the coffee's full aroma and freshness.

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3. Measure Precisely

A carefully measured amount of coffee is crucial for consistency in every brew. Use a scale to precisely measure the amount of coffee.

Single shot: About 7-10 grams of coffee

Double shot: About 18-20 grams of coffee

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4. Tamp the coffee firmly and evenly

An even, firm tamping (compression) is crucial for a good extraction. Press the coffee with about 15-20 kg of pressure and ensure the surface is smooth and level.

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5. Fine-tune the machine settings

Water temperature and pressure are two important factors for a perfect espresso:

Water Temperature: Keep the temperature between 92-96°C for optimal flavor.

Pressure: A standard of 9 bars suits most espresso beans.

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6. Keep an eye on the brewing time

A well-brewed espresso takes about 25-30 seconds for a double shot (about 60 ml). Adjust the grind size and brewing time as needed to find the right balance:

Under-extraction (too short time): Often results in a sour, thin taste.

Over-extraction (too long time): Results in a bitter, burnt taste.

7. Taste and fine-tune to perfection

After the first brew, taste your espresso and assess the balance between acidity, sweetness, and bitterness. Fine-tune the grind size, dosage, or tamp pressure to optimize the flavor. It often takes a few tries, but when the balance is achieved, the result is an unparalleled cup of espresso.

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8. Maintain the machine for the best results

Clean the machine thoroughly after each brew. Rinse the filter holder and portafilter and regularly clean the machine's brew head so that old coffee residues do not affect the taste.

With a little practice and care, you can brew espresso at a high level at home and enjoy an aromatic and full-bodied cup that satisfies even the most discerning taste!
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