How do you make a perfect espresso at home may seem like a task reserved for professional baristas. But with the right tools, the right knowledge and a good dose of passion for good coffee, you can achieve a cup of coffee at home worthy of a specialty coffee shop.
In this short guide, we tell you how to make a perfect espresso from scratch.
What is an espresso coffee: Definition and origins
Espresso coffee is a method of preparation characterised by its speed of extraction and its intensity. It is obtained by forcing hot water (at about 9 bar pressure) through a finely ground coffee pod.
The result is a small, intense cup with a layer of crema on the surface. In about 25 to 30 seconds, you get a drink of about 25-30 ml, with body and aromatic complexity.
Café espresso
Everything you need to make espresso at home
How do you make a perfect espresso at home? To make an espresso at home that comes close to a professional espresso, you need three key elements: good speciality coffee, the right equipment and precision in the details.
Basics to make the perfect espresso
Choose a type of roasted coffee for espresso or omni.
The coffee should be finely ground.
The ideal amount of coffee is around 7 to 9 grams per individual cup.
Use small ceramic cups (60-90 ml). These help to maintain the temperature and concentrate the aromas of the espresso.
Types of espresso machines
Armed (semi-automatic) coffee machines: These require more intervention, but offer total control. They are the most similar to the professional ones.
Super-automatic coffee machines: Very convenient, but less precise.
Step by step: How is espresso coffee made?
- Grind the coffee: It should be a fine grind, similar to table salt. Use between 7-9 g for a single espresso.
- Press and level: Use a tamper to press quality coffee firmly and level it.
- Preheat the cup: With hot water to avoid thermal shock.
- Extract: The extraction time should be 25-30 seconds. Observe the cream: it should be thick and golden.
- Enjoy: If everything went well we will have a sweet and balanced drink, with good body, etc.
Common mistakes
To avoid mistakes when making your espresso, it is essential to pay attention to several details. Take note!
Using coffee with unsuitable grinds
Be sure to use fresh, quality coffee, as this directly influences the taste of your espresso. In addition, it is advisable to adjust the grind according to the type of coffee you are using, as different beans may require adjustments in fineness.
Over- or under-extraction (inadequate time)
Over-extracting or under-extracting (inadequate time): If the extraction time is too short, the resulting coffee will be acidic and tasteless. On the other hand, if you leave it too long, the espresso can become bitter and astringent. The key is to find the perfect balance.
Do not calibrate water pressure or temperature.
Pressure is another key factor! If your espresso machine has a pressure gauge, check that the pressure is in the right range, usually between 9 and 10 bar. This will ensure optimal extraction.
It is also important that the water is at the right temperature, ideally between 90 and 96 degrees Celsius. If the water is too hot, it can burn the coffee; if it is too cold, it will not extract the flavours properly.
Ignoring the cleaning of the coffee machine
Don’t forget to clean your machine regularly. Coffee residues can affect the taste of your extractions and, in the long term, damage the machine. Good maintenance includes cleaning the filter holder, the extraction unit and descaling the machine according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
By following these tips and paying attention to detail, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying espresso in every cup. Each coffee has its own characteristics and adjusting the grind, pressure and extraction time can lead you to discover new flavours and nuances – enjoy the process and every cup of coffee you make!
¿Cómo se hace un café espresso?
Master the art of making good espresso coffee with El Magnifico
At Cafés El Magnífico we help you take your coffee experience to the next level. We have a selection of coffee beans ideal for espresso, precision grinders and accessories so that you can prepare a cup of coffee at home as good as your favourite barista.