Espresso Brew Guide

Brewing espresso with an espresso machine, whether single boiler or dual boiler, can produce a rich and flavorful shot when done correctly. The dual boiler allows you to brew espresso and steam milk simultaneously, making the process more efficient, but the steps remain largely the same for both types. Following these steps will help you achieve consistent results. Enjoy your espresso!

Step-by-Step Guide to Brewing Coffee with an Espresso Machine

STEP 01

Prepare the Espresso Machine

Turn On and Preheat: Turn on your espresso machine and allow it to fully preheat. Depending on the machine, this can take up to 30 minutes.
Preheat the Portafilter and Cup: Lock the portafilter into the group head and run hot water through it to preheat. Also, fill your espresso cup with hot water to preheat.

STEP 02

Weigh and Grind the Coffee

Weigh the Coffee: Measure out 16-18 grams of coffee beans for a double shot of espresso. This is approximately 2 tablespoons, but weighing is more accurate.
Grind the Coffee: Grind the coffee beans to a fine consistency, similar to table salt. This grind size is crucial for proper extraction.

STEP 03

Prepare the Portafilter

Add Coffee Grounds: Remove the portafilter from the group head and dry it thoroughly. Add the ground coffee to the portafilter basket.
Distribute and Tamp: Distribute the coffee evenly in the basket using a distribution tool or by tapping the portafilter. Tamp the coffee with a tamper, applying even pressure until you have a level, compact puck.

STEP 04

Brew the Espresso

Lock the Portafilter: Insert the portafilter into the group head and lock it in place.
Start the Timer and Brew: Start your timer and begin the extraction process. Aim for a brew time of about 25 seconds for a double shot. The espresso should flow smoothly and resemble warm honey in consistency.
- Note: If the coffee flows through too fast, adjust the tamping pressure slightly and/or make the grind a bit finer.
- If the coffee flows too slowly, try tamping lighter or grinding the beans slightly coarser.
- Adjust these two variables until the coffee flows perfectly and tastes great.

STEP 05

Serve and Enjoy

Serve Immediately: Pour the espresso into your preheated cup and enjoy immediately. Espresso is best enjoyed fresh.

STEP 06

Steam Milk (Optional)

Purge the Steam Wand: If you’re making a milk-based drink like a latte or cappuccino, purge the steam wand to remove any condensation.
Steam the Milk: Submerge the steam wand tip just below the surface of the milk and turn on the steam. Stretch the milk by keeping the tip near the surface until it reaches about 100°F (37°C), then submerge the wand deeper to continue heating until it reaches 150-155°F (65-68°C).
Clean the Steam Wand: Wipe the steam wand with a damp cloth and purge it again to remove any milk residue.

STEP 07

Serve Milk-Based Drinks

Pour the Milk: Pour the steamed milk into your espresso shot, using a spoon to hold back the foam if making a latte, or allowing the foam to flow for a cappuccino.
Enjoy: Serve and enjoy your milk-based espresso drink.

Brew with Fidalgo Coffee

Additional Tips

Water Quality: Use filtered water for the best taste.
Coffee Freshness: Use freshly roasted and ground coffee for optimal flavor.
Machine Care: Clean your espresso machine thoroughly after each use to maintain the quality of your coffee. Regularly backflush and descale the machine as per the manufacturer’s instructions.