Espresso Brew Guide

Adjusting espresso is an essential skill for all baristas.

The speed at which water runs through ground coffee has a major impact on the overall taste. The taste of espresso is influenced by the weight of the coffee, the total weight of the espresso and the brewing time required. With a simple ratio and a few easy steps we can create a delicious and balanced espresso.

EQUIPMENT:

• Espresso Machine
• Precision Scale

RECIPE:

With this recipe we aim to get the espresso flowing in 28-32 seconds with a total weight of 36g (1:2 ratio).

• Coffee to water ratio: 18:36g (1:2)
• Coffee: 18g (finely ground)
• Water: 36g
• Extraction time: 28-32 seconds
• Temperature for coffee extraction: Between 93-96 degrees.

STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE:

1. Remove the portafilter from the machine and clean it with a cloth.
2. Run some water through the machine (also called 'flushing').
3. Place the portafilter on the scale and set it to zero (tare).
4. Pour 18g of freshly ground coffee into the filter holder and distribute the coffee evenly in the basket.
   • The grind size of the coffee should be fine (like powdered sugar).
5. With the edge of the portafilter on the counter (or tamper mat), use your body weight to gently press the ground coffee and distribute it evenly in the basket.
6. Clean the edge of the filter holder with your hand to ensure that there is no loose coffee outside the basket.
7. Screw the portafilter into the group head.
8. Place the scale and a coffee cup.
9. Press the double shot button and start the timer.
   • With this recipe we aim for the espresso in 28-32 seconds with a total weight of 36g (1:2 ratio).
10. If the espresso flows for less than 28 seconds, the coffee is too coarse. Adjust the grind size to make the coffee finer.
11. If the espresso continues for more than 32 seconds, the coffee is too fine. Adjust the grind size to make the coffee coarser.
12. Stop the machine when the scale reads approximately 34 grams (this is to compensate for the scale's delay).
13. Let it drip down to 36 grams.
14. Stir the espresso.

Enjoy!

COMMENTS: To keep your machine in excellent condition and your coffee always tasting optimal, it is essential that you completely clean your machine every day. A well-maintained machine reduces maintenance costs and ensures that your machine will provide you with good service for years to come. Between each grind adjustment, grind a little more coffee to ensure that all coffee has the new desired grind.