Espresso Makers and Single-Serve Coffee Cups

Espresso Makers and Single-Serve Coffee Cups

The ideal espresso is incomparable. Coffee that has been pressed and percolated to extract maximum flavor from finely ground, dark-roasted beans is sure to be a sensory joy and a welcome pick-me-up. In Italy, when you ask for coffee, you really mean espresso. The Italians go to their neighborhood bar multiple times a day in search of the ideal espresso. 

However, finding quality espresso in the United States can be a challenge. Few individuals on this side of the ocean know how to correctly grind the coffee beans, heat the water, press the coffee, and foam the milk. It used to be a bit of a gamble to make espresso at home or in a local bar, but today's espresso machines and pre-measured coffee pods have eliminated the need for any guesswork.

Most Italians are unfamiliar with what Americans consider a coffee machine. An instrument called a "machinetta" is used. It is shaped like a metal hourglass and has a pitcher-like lid. It's a two-chamber mechanism. The lower compartment is for liquids like water and coffee. Place the espresso maker on the stove and bring the water to a boil. Allow the water to percolate through the espresso grounds into the second chamber. 

Espresso, which literally translates to "expressed," is made by pressing coffee grounds between two chambers to extract as much flavor as possible for a concentrated cup of java. In a second step, the milk is heated and beaten. However, errors are commonplace throughout this procedure. The water or coffee was either too little or too much, the heat was too high, or the timing was off.

As the demand for espresso rises, so does the demand for a foolproof method of making it at home. There are now espresso machines available that make it possible to consistently get the ideal ratio of coffee to water. Many distinct models are available, each with its own set of capabilities and characteristics. Some are made specifically for commercial use in eateries and bars and can brew several pots of coffee in a short amount of time. These probably aren't the ideal option unless you host a lot of parties at home.

Domestic models typically make one or two "shots" (servings) of espresso at a time. You'll need an espresso machine with a nozzle that generates steam and froths milk if you want your espresso "macchiato" with milk or if you want to make a cappuccino. Alternatively, you may look at a product that allows you to use coffee pods. 

These capsules resemble oversized tea bags. They hold just the right quantity of espresso for a consistent brew. Putting in a pod is as easy as closing the door and turning on the machine. Once the cycle is complete, the pod can be discarded. It makes precise espresso measurements hassle-free, and clean-up is a breeze.

One thing to think about before buying a machine that uses coffee pods is whether or not it is compatible with pods from competing brands or with conventional loose espresso. Some do, although most are restricted to use with the company's proprietary coffee capsules. 

If you run out of pods, which could require a special order, having the option to use loose coffee will still allow you to use the machine. Until these vending machines gain greater traction, it's unlikely that the pods will be regularly stocked at most supermarkets. The flexibility to use either type of coffee lets you explore different roasts and espresso flavors to find the one that best suits your taste.