Complete beginner's guide: how to make the perfect espresso at home

Espresso is much more than just a cup of coffee; it is a technique and an art that requires precision and knowledge. In this article, we will guide you through the basics of espresso, from the essential elements to the secrets that will allow you to become a barista at home.

What is an espresso?

The term espresso refers mainly to the method of coffee preparation in which hot water is forced at high pressure through fine ground coffee, resulting in a concentrated and aromatic beverage. This method not only produces a coffee rich in flavor, but is also the basis for popular beverages such as latte, cappuccino, macchiato and many more.

How to prepare a perfect espresso: key parameters

If you want to master the preparation of espresso at home, it is essential that you understand the key parameters that influence its quality:

1. Dosage of ground coffee

The dosage refers to the amount of ground coffee you use to prepare your espresso. As in a pastry recipe, the correct proportion of ingredients is crucial for a good result. Generally, it is recommended to use between 16 g and 20 g of ground coffee, depending on the size of the basket of your espresso machine. A proper dosage ensures that the coffee is well balanced and full of flavor.

2. Cup yield

Yield refers to the amount of liquid coffee you get in the cup after extraction. For a standard espresso, you are looking for the yield to be approximately twice the dose of coffee used. For example, if you use 16 g of coffee, you should get between 32 ml of espresso. Achieving the right yield is essential for a balanced espresso.

3. Extraction time and grind thickness

The extraction time determines the balance and quality of the espresso. This time is controlled by adjusting the thickness of the grind. A finer grind slows down the extraction, allowing the water to pass more slowly through the coffee pod, resulting in a longer extraction time. On the other hand, a coarser grind speeds up the process, resulting in a faster extraction.

Tips to perfect your espresso

Mastering these variables may seem challenging at first, but with practice, you'll become an expert barista at home. At The Coffee Academy, we offer specialized training to help you understand and control grind thickness, as well as other crucial aspects of espresso preparation. This will allow you to drastically improve the quality of your espresso.

Learn more in our espresso workshop

If you are interested in delving into the art of espresso extraction, learning about the equipment and how to get the most out of your coffees at home, we invite you to register for our Espresso Workshop. Here you will learn everything you need to perfect your technique and enjoy a professional quality espresso in the comfort of your own home.

Become an espresso master and take your passion for coffee to the next level!