Espresso coffee maker

An espresso machine pushes water at 90-96 ° C and 9-10 bar pressure through a fine and pressed coffee pill. In 25-30 seconds a short, dense and cream drink comes out. The modern reference recipe is 18 g coffee for 36 g drink.

There are several types, depending on how they heat water and how they generate pressure:

• The pressure is you or a dock.
• Thermoblock: It is warm at the moment and affordable.
• A boiler: it makes coffee and steam, but not at the same time.
• Heat exchanger: coffee and steam at the same time.
• Double boiler: independent and precise temperatures.
• Superautomatic and capsules: comfort first.

It is the only way to the real espresso and to the milk textured with microfoam. In return, he asks for learning, maintenance (lime, joints, cleaning) and a good mill.

Guidance prices: €150-400 for entry, €500-1,500 for a boiler or exchanger and €1,500-3,500 or more for double boiler. Before the machine, reserve budget for an espresso mill (€150-700), which matters more. Look for 58 mm filter holder, temperature control and a well-functioning steam spear.

Cheapest alternative: a manual lever or laptop espresso. The moka and the AeroPress give a concentrated coffee, but not espresso.