So You've Bought Espresso Maker ... Now What?

How to Keep Your Espresso Maker Clean A high-quality espresso machine will let you make drinks of cafe quality at home. It's a sophisticated, precise instrument that is difficult to learn. Espresso makers work by quickly pushing hot water through a tightly packed portafilter filled with finely ground coffee under pressure. The result is a cup that has a thick consistency with the golden layer of crema. User-Friendliness Espresso making can be a finicky process. Coffeee as well as its taste depend on a variety of variables including the technique used to tamp and the size of the grind as well as the temperature of the water. The machine can also influence the outcome. That's the reason why some coffee enthusiasts prefer using an espresso maker with a manual mechanism instead of a fully automated espresso maker. A manual espresso machine uses hot water to extract flavor from ground coffee and then pours it into cups below. The water is typically heated by an element inside an enclosed heating chamber. It can be turned off and on by a switch on the front of the unit. These machines can require some sort of learning curve to master. They require a lot of precision when it comes to grinding and tamping and often have lengthy warm-up times. However, they are more simple to operate than an electric espresso machine, which has many controls and settings that may make it difficult for novices to manual brewing. This Philips espresso maker can be set to create single or double shots and provides a variety of settings that allow you to personalize your drink. It uses 15 bars of pressure, which is enough to make an espresso that is strong but not enough pressure that you'll have trouble with the temperature of your water. The steam wand is adjustable to regulate the texture of the milk. This espresso machine is ideal for espresso connoisseurs. It can be used with pre-ground coffee or even whole beans you grind yourself. The machine comes with a separate container for beans that can hold up to 1 pound. You can control the grinding process using an app on your smartphone. The machine also comes with a cup warmer to keep your drink at a steady temperature. We'd like to see a few extra features, such as an external thermometer to monitor water temperature and portafilters that can be cleaned to remove. It's a great choice for those who want the taste of authentic Italian espresso but doesn't want to invest in an expensive commercial espresso machine. Cleaning Made Simple The quality of the espresso you brew depends on many factors, including the barista's style and the capabilities of your coffee machine and, perhaps the most important the cleanliness. A dirty, soiled espresso machine harbors rancid oil residue and other unpleasant flavors that can ruin the espresso and cause other beverages to taste bad as well. Exceptional espresso requires a meticulous cleaning regimen that removes impurities on an hourly, daily and weekly basis. Maintaining your espresso maker in top condition can be a daunting job, but it's not difficult. You can make the process simpler, and ensure your espresso is delicious with only a little effort. First, go through the directions provided by the manufacturer to determine if there are any specific cleaning instructions. Once you've determined the specifics, start cleaning. First, fill the reservoir with a mix of distilled vinegar and water (usually 50-50) or your cleaning solution. Once the solution has run through, you can pull the portafilter, and gently wiggle it to dislodge any residue and gunk that's accumulated in there. You can also utilize the steam wand which will dispense hotwater and agitate any gunk that has built up in the drip tray and portafilter. After you have removed and cleaned any residue from your espresso machine, it is time to backflush it. Depending on the method of descaling you choose, you can drain and flush your water tank, or put a large container under the portafilter, below the hot-water dispenser, and the steam wand to collect the liquid that runs through the functions of your machine. After you've finished, you can empty the bowl and rinse off your espresso machine, as well as the steam wand and portafilter screens, to stop any residue of detergent from being left behind. These routine backflushes will help you achieve the best possible espresso. A dirty espresso machine could affect the taste of your beverage and in some cases even your health. Easy Maintenance Jamie Ueda, a senior editor at Good Housekeeping, has tested various kitchen appliances and cooking tools. However she is most passionate about espresso machines. She has completed the Specialty Coffee Association's (SCA) rigorous coffee training in barista training, brewing and sensory tasting. She also serves as the judge for GH's annual Kitchen Gear and Coffee Awards. This Philips espresso maker makes top-quality cafe-style drinks from the comfort of your own home with manual settings that allow you to customize extraction. The 15 bars will give you an intense and full-flavored shot. This machine features steam wands for frothing milk for lattes and cappuccinos and warming plates to keep cups at the ideal temperature. Isaiah Sheese is the owner of three Archetype Coffee shops and Roasteries located in Omaha Nebraska. He finished 4th in the World Barista Championships 2023. This means he has plenty of experience when it comes making excellent espresso. He favors the Decent DE1, because it is extremely customizable and easy to use. Ease of Service An espresso maker works by pushing hot water through a portafilter of tightly packed ground coffee with high pressure in a short amount of time. The consistency of the brew as well as the crema layer (a thin film that is formed on the top) depend on several factors, including the type of bean used, the amount of grounds are packed, grind size and temperature. The control panel for the machine typically includes an on/off switch and two indicators, as well as an activated valve by pressing a button. This activates one of the micro-switches that control the pump and heating element to initiate the flow of water through the portafilter, and into the cup. Super-automatic machines do all the work for you. They measure and grind the beans, making a single or a double shot, and even foam milk for cappuccinos and lattes. They are a great option for those who simply wants to drink espresso, however for those who wish to experiment with the process, they may restrict your choices.