subject: Six Secrets To Making Great Espresso [print this page] There's nothing quite like sitting down to a perfect cup of espresso, freshly brewed from your own kitchen. An espresso machine makes a perfect gift too, especially for the dads in your life.
Take a few hints from the pros, and your dad or husband will be making perfect espresso in no time.
1. Start with a high quality espresso maker
There are lots of options out there, and many levels of features. Buy the highest quality machine you can afford, and you'll not only get a great cup of coffee, you'll enjoy fresh espresso for years to come.
2. Choose specially roasted espresso beans
You can use regular roasted coffee beans, but for a truly fine cup of espresso, look for espresso roast. You'll see a difference in the robust, rich flavor.
3. Use a fine grind
Espresso is brewed differently than coffee. Because of this difference, you'll need a finer grind of beans. Some espresso machines have built-in grinders. These make the job simple. If you are grinding your own, be sure to set the grind for "fine" or "espresso" to get the best flavor.
4. Start with cold, filtered water
The more pure the water, the better your espresso will taste. Using cold water will allow the water to pick up all the good flavors, while leaving behind the oils and acids that can make espresso bitter.
5. Experiment!
Each espresso machine is a little different, and many have different strength settings. Don't be afraid to play around! Once you experiment a few times, you'll have a good idea of what your espresso machine can do.
6. Get social
Nothing beats the feeling of sitting around the kitchen table with a great cup of espresso. Bring the family together, invite the neighbors, and rediscover this simple pleasure.
There's nothing magic about using an espresso machine. The key is to try it, adjust it and find your own perfect brew.
