What is Espresso?

Espresso is a highly caffeinated blend of coffee that can only be achieved with the specific application of pressure onto ground beans. It has been around for centuries, and is very popular as a more sophisticated drink that packs more of a punch than regular coffee. In this post we will be discussing exactly what goes into making a great cup of espresso and the intricacies involved in the process.

The Right Grounds

A common misconception about espresso is that there are specific espresso beans needed to make a great brew. In fact, “regular” coffee beans can be used, and the brewing method is what really separates the average cup of joe with a great tasting espresso. While any beans can be used, it is important to find different levels of roasts to fit your needs. Some roasts will be better suited to making espresso and vice versa. You can find a variety of online retailers that sell beans for espresso roasts, and a bonus is that they are cheaper than using pods.

Espresso Grinders

This is where things go from simple to more of a science. The aromatic and complex flavors in coffee beans are released during the grinding process, so finding a good grinder is a worthwhile investment. Make sure to do research on grinders to find the best options for making espresso, as various types of grounds can yield different flavor profiles and make or break the final brew. You will need to experiment with the different grinding options to find a blend that fits your personal flavor preferences.
More on How to Grind Espresso Beans

Picking the Right Espresso Machine

Once you have a grinder, you will need to do some research to find an espresso machine to fit your needs. There are many online sources available to find great machines (such as: YourBestEspressoReviews.com) and things like budget, experience, and individual needs will come into play when making your decision. For instance, if you are a beginner, you will want to consider machines that are less complex, with fewer options. A great starter machine is the Breville BES870XL (review found here: http://www.yourbestespressoreviews.com/breville-bes870xl-review/) or if you want to go even more simplistic, you can check out Keurig espresso machines. Each different option comes with its own pros and cons, so before spending the rather large investment on a high end machine, you should be sure to do in depth research on all of your options.

Experimenting to get the Right Blend

Once you have everything you need, you will inevitably need to experiment to achieve the perfect flavor and consistency that is right for you. Many beginner espresso drinkers will start of with a beginners machine and move on to more complex and higher quality products once they are comfortable enough to upgrade.