5 golden rules to brew a delicious espresso

Master the Art of Espresso

Espresso is the foundation of countless coffee drinks, and mastering it is essential for any coffee enthusiast. Follow these five golden rules to brew a delicious espresso every time.

Rule 1: Start with Fresh Beans

The quality of your espresso begins with the beans. Use freshly roasted coffee, ideally within 2-4 weeks of the roast date. Store your beans in an airtight container away from light and heat.

Rule 2: Grind Right Before Brewing

Coffee begins to lose its freshness within minutes of grinding. For the best results, grind your beans immediately before brewing. The grind should be fine and consistent, similar to table salt.

Rule 3: Perfect Your Dose and Tamp

Use 18-20 grams of coffee for a double shot. Distribute the grounds evenly in the portafilter, then tamp with firm, level pressure - about 30 pounds of force. Consistency is key.

Rule 4: Watch Your Extraction Time

A perfect espresso shot should take 25-30 seconds to extract. If it runs too fast, your grind is too coarse. If it runs too slow, your grind is too fine. Aim for a honey-like flow.

Rule 5: Maintain Your Equipment

Clean your espresso machine regularly. Backflush after each session, clean the group head, and descale monthly. A clean machine produces the best-tasting espresso.

The Perfect Shot

When done right, your espresso should have:

1. A rich, golden crema on top
2. A balanced flavor - not too bitter, not too sour
3. A syrupy body
4. A pleasant, lingering aftertaste

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Practice makes perfect. Visit us at Mad Bean Coffee House to taste what a perfect espresso should be, and pick up some of our expertly roasted beans to practice at home.