How to Choose an Espresso Coffee Machine Home
With a high-end espresso maker, you can take your coffee-making experience at home to a new level. But how do you choose?
There are many aspects to think about including measuring and grinding your beans to pressing and tamping your beans properly to getting the perfect espresso. Fortunately, a lot of the tasks can be automated with semi-automatic machines and, in some cases, even fully automated models.
Manual
You'll need some quality equipment if you wish to make the highest quality espresso at home. The most crucial element of the system is an espresso maker that has a good design that can handle pressure. This is where a handful of manufacturers have stripped it down, producing machines that don't even have boilers, instead relying on hand-pressure to produce some decent shots.
We've tested a variety of them and found that the Lelit Bambino Plus is one of the top. It's not cheap but you're getting a piece of coffee equipment that will last for decades, and has 35 years of Lelit service and support to back it. It's a bit heavier than average, but that's to be expected considering its construction. It also has a stunning retro-futuristic design that's sure to be a conversation-starter.
Another option that is worth considering is Breville's Smart Grinder EK835. It's not inexpensive, but it's a great grinder that will allow you to grind your own coffee beans. It's larger than other grinders we've examined, but it's because of its larger burrs and the fact that it's able to handle more than a standard burr set. It's easier to use than some of the models we reviewed and comes with a solid warranty.
There are four types of espresso machines: Manual/Lever, Semi-Automatic, Volumetric (sometimes referred to as Automatic) and Super-Automatic. Manual levers are the most common and provide an easier design, but they are also the most difficult to learn how to use and require more expertise to dial in and pull shots.
Semi-automatics let you perform the grinding and tamping yourself but they have an electric pump that gives the same flow and pressure. You can alter the amount of espresso in your cup by stopping the brewing process and the majority of semi-automatics come with a steam wand that allows you to create foam. Additionally, there are super-automatics that do all the work for you and have integrated grinders, tampers, the brewing process and more.
Semi-Automatic
The difference between semi-automatic espresso machines and fully automated machines is how much control you want over the coffee making process. Manual espresso machines depend on the barista to produce pressure and then pull the shot, which can be exhausting and requires lots of practice. Fully automated machines can make professional-quality espresso with the push of a single button. These machines are expensive to rent or purchase but they provide convenience.
Semi-automatic machines are the ideal choice for those who would like to control some aspects of the coffee they make, but do not have the time or expertise to become a professional barista. This type of machine removes the guesswork from brewing a shot by grinding the beans, forming them into a hockey puck shape and forcing hot water through them with just the right pressure to create an espresso. This type of espresso machine can also allow you to steam milk, and then make the latte art.
These machines are more expensive and require more maintenance than fully automatic machines. However, for those who aren't able to purchase or rent an espresso machine fully automated, semi-automatic espresso makers can be an affordable alternative.
Fully automated espresso machines guarantee an exact cup every time, with minimum effort. The machines can do all the steps needed to make espresso with just one touch of a switch, from grinding the coffee beans, to taking the shot and then steaming the milk. This is a popular option for cafes that need to be able serve multiple customers in a short amount of time and are looking for ease of use. However, these machines can be expensive and might not be an option for all cafes. If you're considering a fully-automatic espresso machine for your cafe, consider purchasing or renting two. One to cover high-volume times, and the other one to manage slower times.
Pods
Pod coffee machines permit you to prepare espresso-based drinks with the touch of the button. The capsules contain pre-ground coffee and powdered milk that is used to make the beverage. The top espresso pods offer reliable results, are sleek and quick, and produce shots that are topped with crema.
While pod machines won't give you the same level of control as bean-to-cup machines however they are a great option for those who prefer to do away with grinding and tamping their own beans, and who value convenience over quality. Although they don't provide the same flavor as freshly ground beans made from an excellent coffee grinder, the advancements in pod technology and a growing selection of coffee varieties make these models better than ever.
The type of coffee pods used by the machines varies from manufacturer to manufacturer however they usually have the same basic shape and design. The majority are covered in paper, they are similar to tea bags that can be placed into a portafilter to brew. Some are specifically designed to work with drip coffee makers, while others are made specifically for espresso machines. The former are called soft pods, while the latter are called are known as Easy Serving Espresso (E.S.E) pods.
If you are shopping for a pod-based espresso machine it is essential to look over the recommended list of compatible pods. Many of these machines have many different coffee machines espresso flavors, so you can try different brands and flavors before settling on your favorite. Some brands also offer refillable pods for those who like to reuse their old ones.
No matter what type of coffee maker you pick, it's essential to consider the cleaning and maintenance requirements. While most bean-to-cup machines require manual cleaning, washing the brewing and grinder mechanisms and regularly descaling them Some pod-based espresso machines are equipped with self-cleaning functions that reduce the hassle.
Water
The espresso machine is a powerful device that makes use of high pressure to force water through finely packed, tightly ground coffee. The espresso shot is concentrated and is ideal for making cappuccinos. This was discovered by Europeans in the latter part of the 1800s, particularly the Italians. They used this to create a new variety of coffee drinks.
There are a variety of methods to make espresso, but the principle is the same: heat the water just below boiling, then press it through the tightly packed grounds of a portafilter. The water is then poured into the container, below the grouphead. This creates a strongly delicious, rich cup of espresso in just two minutes.
Espresso machines work the same way, however their details vary slightly. Some machines use piston-style designs which requires you to press a lever in order to create the required pressure (8 to 10 bars (116 to 150 psi)). Others use an electric pump to generate the required pressure. Other machines, especially the less expensive at-home machines rely on water and heated temperatures to achieve the same effect.
No matter how your espresso machine performs, the quality of the ingredients you use is essential to making a good cup of espresso. Start with a high-quality dark-roasted, dark-roasted espresso beans. Try different grinds and tamping methods to find the perfect recipe for your home espresso machine.
Use the right water for your espresso maker. It is recommended to choose tap water that has a moderate mineral content. The minerals in the water can help extract a smooth, balanced cup of coffee, while also stopping the buildup of scale. La Marzocco has downloadable guidelines for coffee water that will assist you in determining the mineral content of the water you drink locally.
As you become more comfortable with using your espresso machine at home, it's an excellent idea to invest in a few additional accessories, like an espresso portafilter or a stainless steel tamper. These items will improve your brewing techniques and provide you with a sense of satisfaction with the coffee you're able to make at home.