Espresso Guide: How to brew the perfect espresso at home

Mastering the art of brewing espresso at home requires attention to detail, good technique and the right approach. Follow this step-by-step guide to create an espresso that matches the coffee shop experience - rich, aromatic and perfectly balanced.

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1. Choose beans with care

Experiment with roasting degrees to find the flavour profile that suits you best.

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2. Grind beans correctly and fresh

An even and fine grind is essential for a well-balanced espresso. Use a grinder with adjustable settings so you can customise the grind level precisely.

Grind: Espresso requires a fine texture - similar to table salt.

Fresh grind: Grind the beans just before brewing to preserve the full flavour and freshness of the coffee.

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3. Dispense accurately

A carefully measured amount of coffee is essential for consistency in every brew. Use a scale to accurately measure the amount of coffee.

Single shot: Approx. 7-10 grams of coffee

Double shot: Approx. 18-20 grams of coffee

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4. Tamp the coffee firmly and evenly

An even, firm tamping (compression) is essential for a good extraction. Press the coffee with around 15-20kg of pressure and make sure the surface is smooth and even.

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5. Fine-tune the machine settings

Water temperature and pressure are two important factors for a perfect espresso:

Water temperature: Keep the temperature between 92-96°C for optimal flavour.

Pressure: A standard 9 bar is suitable for most espresso beans.

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6. Keep an eye on the brewing time

A well-brewed espresso takes around 25-30 seconds for a double shot (about 60ml). Adjust the grind and brew time as needed to find the right balance:

Under-extraction (too short a time): Often results in a sour, thin flavour.

Over-extraction (too long): Results in a bitter, burnt flavour.

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7. Flavour and fine-tune to perfection

After the first brew, taste your espresso and assess the balance between acidity, sweetness and bitterness. Fine-tune the grind, dose or tamp pressure to optimise the flavour. Often it takes a few tries, but when the balance is right, the result is an unrivalled cup of espresso.

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8. Maintain the machine for best results

Clean the machine thoroughly after each brew. Rinse the filter holder and portafilter and clean the machine's brew head regularly so that old coffee residue does not affect the flavour.

With a little practice and care, you can brew espresso at a high level at home and enjoy an aromatic and rich cup that satisfies even the most discerning taste!
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