What is an Espresso?
An espresso is a small cup of concentrated coffee made by forcing water through finely ground coffee at high pressure. The intense flavor and rich, golden-brown crema make espresso the basis for many popular coffee drinks, such as cappuccino and latte macchiato. Discover everything about espresso here: how to make it perfectly, what types there are, and where this popular coffee type comes from.
How do you prepare a good espresso?
A good espresso requires the right settings on both the espresso machine and the coffee grinder. The Specialty Coffee Association defines a perfect espresso as a shot of about 30 ml, made from 18-20 grams of finely ground coffee and extracted in 25 to 30 seconds at a pressure of 9 bar and a temperature of 93.3 °C.
Baristas use a piston machine and pay close attention to these parameters to ensure the best taste. For everyday use, fully automatic coffee machines are also an excellent choice; they are preset for consistency.
Where does espresso come from?
The name "espresso" comes from the Latin word for "to squeeze out," which refers to the method of preparation. Espresso originated in Italy, where it remains a popular coffee choice. In Italian espresso bars, it is often consumed in one sip at the bar. If you order a caffè in Italy, you will always get an espresso.
A perfect espresso in steps
Step 1: Warm up
A good espresso starts with a properly heated machine and cups. With professional machines, heating can sometimes take up to an hour, so that the brewing group, filter holder and cup are at the ideal temperature.
Step 2: Grind the coffee and dose
The freshly ground coffee is measured and evenly distributed in the filter holder. The coffee is then firmly pressed with a tamper, which ensures a balanced extraction.
Step 3: Flushing the machine
Before the filter holder is placed, the barista briefly rinses the brewing unit. This ensures a stable temperature and cleans the brewing unit.
Step 4: Making the espresso
The espresso is made by forcing hot water under pressure through the coffee. This process should not take longer than 25-30 seconds, to prevent the taste from becoming too bitter.
Step 5: Serve and enjoy
Serve the espresso in a preheated cup and enjoy the intense taste and aromas. A well-brewed espresso can be recognized by the thick, golden brown crema.
Types of Espresso
Espresso Ristretto
The espresso ristretto is a stronger variant of the espresso, made with the same amount of coffee but with less water (about 15 ml). This results in a powerful taste experience.
Espresso Doppio
A doppio is a double espresso, or twice the standard dosage. With a volume of 60-80 ml, a doppio gives coffee lovers a longer and more intense coffee experience.
