How to Choose professional espresso machine -quality espresso machine can take your home coffee-making to the next level. How do you choose the best machine?
There's a lot to think about, from measuring and grinding your own beans to pressing and tamping correctly, to pulling the right espresso. Fortunately, a lot of the tasks involved can be automated with semi-automatic machines and, in some cases, even fully automatic models.
Manual
If you want to be able to make the finest espresso you can make at home, then you'll need to invest in some good equipment. The most essential component of the system is an espresso maker that has a good design that can handle pressure. Some manufacturers have stripped down the system to the bare minimum, creating machines that don't require boilers at all, and rely on hand pressure to make some pretty decent shots.
We've tested a number of them and discovered the Lelit Bambino Plus to be one of the very best at what it does. You're not getting a bargain machine, but you're getting a piece that will last decades and 35 years of Lelit support and service. It's heavier than the average, but that's to be expected given its build. It has a retro-futuristic look that is sure to spark conversation.
Another option that is worth considering is the Breville Smart Grinder EK835. It's not cheap but it's an excellent grinder that will allow you to grind your own coffee beans. It's larger than other grinders we've looked at and it's due to its larger burrs and fact that it's capable of handling more than a standard burr set. It's also a bit simpler to use than the other models we examined and is backed by a solid warranty.
There are four types of espresso machines: Manual/Lever, Semi-Automatic Volumetric (sometimes called Automatic) and Super-Automatic. Manual levers have a more traditional design and are simpler to use, however they require more skill and knowledge to dial in and pull shots.
Semi-automatics allow you to do the grinding and tamping by yourself They also come with an electric pump that provides consistent pressure and flow. You can alter the amount of espresso you pour into your cup by stopping the brewing process and the majority of semi-automatics come with steam wands that allow you to create foam. Additionally, there are super-automatics which take care of all the work for you and have built-in grinders, tampers, brew cycles and much more.
Semi-Automatic
The difference between semiautomatic espresso machines (semi-automatic) and fully automated machines is the degree of control you would like over the making process. Manual espresso machines require the baristas to push the button and pull the shot, which can be tiring and requires a lot of practice. Fully automated machines can brew professional-quality espresso at the touch of a button. However, this convenience comes at cost and these machines can be expensive to buy or rent.
A semi-automatic machine is the ideal alternative for those looking to control their coffee making but don't have time or the ability to be barista. This type of machine removes the guesswork from making a shot of espresso by grinding the beans, forming them into a hockey puck shape and pushing hot water through them at just the right amount of pressure to make an espresso. This type of espresso maker also lets you to steam milk and create latte arts.
These machines are more expensive and require more maintenance than fully automated machines. Semi-automatic espresso machines are an excellent alternative for those who don't have the funds to purchase or rent a fully automated espresso machine.
Fully automated espresso machines ensure a consistent cup every time, with minimal effort. They can perform all the steps required to make espresso with a single push of a switch, from grinding the coffee beans to making the shot and steaming the milk. This is a very popular choice for cafes that need to serve a large number of customers in a brief period and want simplicity of use. These machines are costly and are not suitable for all cafes. If you're considering an espresso machine that is fully automated for your cafe, you should consider purchasing or renting two. One machine to handle peak times, and the other one to handle slower periods.
Pods
With pod coffee machines, you can prepare espresso drinks with the push of a button. The capsules contain pre-ground coffee and powdered milk that are used to brew the beverage. The best espresso pod machines are quick, neat and provide very consistent results--shot after shot is topped with a creamy layer of crema that is the signature of a high-quality espresso.
Although pod machines might not give you the same level of control that bean-to-cup models do but they're a great option for those who wish to avoid grinding and tapping their own beans, and who prioritize convenience over quality. Although they don't have the same flavor as freshly ground beans from a good coffee grinder, advancements in pod technology and an increasing selection of coffee varieties have made these machines more efficient than ever.
These machines use various coffee pods, but they all have the same basic design and shape. Most are small disks with papers that resemble tea bags. They can be put into a portafilter for brewing. Some are specifically designed to be used with drip coffee machines, while others are designed for espresso machines. Soft pods are one of them, and Easy Serving Espresso (E.S.E.) pods are the latter.
It is important to check the list of compatible pods prior buying a machine based on pods. Many of these machines have many different flavors of flavors, so you can test out different flavors and brands before buying your preferred. Some brands also offer refillable pods for those who prefer to reuse their old pods.
It's important to consider the cleaning and maintenance needs of your coffee machine regardless of the model. While many bean-to-cup machines require manual cleaning, washing the grinder and brewing mechanisms and regularly descaling Some pod-based espresso machines are equipped with self-cleaning features that make it easier to clean.
Water
The espresso machine is a powerful device that uses high pressure to push water through a tightly packed, finely ground coffee. The espresso shot is a concentrated and is ideal for making cappuccinos. This was discovered by the Europeans in the late 1800s, particularly the Italians. They utilized this technique to create a new variety of coffee drinks.
There are a variety of methods to make espresso, however the basic principle is the same: heat the water to just below boiling, and then push it through the tightly packed grounds of a portafilter. The water then flows into the container, below the grouphead. This technique produces a dense and highly flavorful cup of espresso in just 2 minutes.
Espresso machines work the same way, but their specifics differ. Some machines employ a piston-style design, which requires you to press a lever to generate the pressure required (8 to 10 bars; 116 to 150 psi). Other machines utilize an electric pump to generate the required pressure. Others, particularly the home-based machines that aren't expensive, simply rely on heated water and high temperatures to produce the similar effect.
Whatever way your espresso machine functions the quality of your ingredients is essential to making a good cup of espresso. Start with a high-quality dark-roasted, dark-roasted espresso beans. Explore different grinds and tamping methods to find the ideal recipe for home espresso machines.
Make sure you use the correct water in your espresso maker. You should ideally use tap water that has a moderate mineral content. The minerals in the water will help extract a smooth, balanced cup of coffee, while also helping to prevent the buildup of scale. La Marzocco has downloadable guidelines for coffee water that will assist you in determining the mineral content of your local water supply.
As you become more familiar with using your espresso machine at home It's recommended to purchase other accessories, such as the portafilter and a stainless tamper. These tools will enhance your coffee making techniques and give you a sense satisfaction with the coffee you're now able to make at home.