Preparation Guide: Espresso with Specialty Coffee
At Curador we want to help you prepare a delicious, professional-quality espresso with your espresso machine at home, using specialty coffee.
Ingredients:
- Specialty fresh ground coffee (fine grind)
- Espresso machine
- Coffee press or tamper
- Coffee grinder (if you grind your own coffee)
- Shot glass or espresso cup
- Scale (optional for greater precision)
Preparation:
1. Grind the coffee:
- If you grind your own coffee, use a fine grind, similar to powdered sugar. The ideal grind can vary depending on the espresso machine, so you may need to experiment to find the perfect setting.
- If you use pre-ground coffee, make sure it is high quality and has the proper grind for espresso.
2. Measure the coffee:
- Use 18-21 grams of ground coffee for a double espresso (approximately 35-40 ml). Adjust the amount according to the size of your portafilter and your cup preference.
- If you use a scale or balance, weigh the ground coffee accurately to get a consistent extraction.
3. Tamp the coffee:
- Place the ground coffee into the portafilter and level the surface.
- Use the tamper to compact the coffee evenly, applying 15-30 kg of pressure.
- Make sure the surface of the coffee is level and there are no lumps.
4. Attach the filter holder:
- Attach the portafilter to the espresso machine, making sure it is securely fastened.
5. Pre-infusion (optional):
- Some espresso machines have a pre-infusion feature that moistens the ground coffee before full extraction. This can help release flavors evenly and improve espresso quality.
6. Extraction:
- Start extracting the espresso. A double espresso should be extracted in 25-30 seconds, producing around 30 ml of coffee.
- Look at the color and consistency of the espresso. It should be dark brown with a thick, dense crema.
7. Serve and enjoy:
- Serve the espresso immediately into a shot glass or preheated espresso cup.
- Savor the aroma and intense flavor of your perfectly prepared specialty coffee espresso.
Additional Tips:
- Use filtered or good quality water for best taste.
- Preheat your espresso cup to keep your coffee hot longer.
- Experiment with different grinds, doses and brewing times to find your perfect espresso.
- Clean your espresso machine regularly to maintain optimal performance.
- Use high quality fresh specialty coffee for the best flavor and aroma.
With this guide and a little practice, you'll be able to make delicious, professional-quality espresso at home, just like an experienced barista!
