How to Make the Perfect Espresso with a Portable Coffee Maker
Tips and techniques to achieve a 20 bar extraction anywhere
If you are a coffee lover looking to enjoy a barista-quality espresso anytime, anywhere, learning to master your portable coffee maker is a must. In this article, we share tips and techniques that will help you achieve a 20 bar extraction, ensuring an intense, creamy and aromatic coffee, no matter if you are in the mountains, camping or in the middle of the city.
1. Selecting the Coffee and Ideal Grinding
Choose a Quality Coffee
The foundation of a good espresso is undoubtedly the quality of the beans. Opt for fresh, recently roasted beans to ensure that each extraction releases the maximum potential of aromas and flavours.
Proper Grinding
Grinding plays a crucial role in extraction. For a portable coffee maker , use a fine grind, similar to that of a conventional espresso machine. This will allow the water pressed at 20 bar to optimally extract the essential oils and compounds from the coffee.
2. Dosing and Compaction
Measure the Correct Amount
Use the coffee powder adapter on your portable coffee maker to measure approximately 8g of coffee. Precise dosing is essential to achieve the perfect balance between espresso intensity and creaminess.
Compact the Coffee
Before starting the extraction, gently press the coffee into the chamber. Proper tamping helps to even out the strength of the coffee, allowing the 20 bar pressure to be evenly distributed during extraction.
3. Water Preparation
Ideal Temperature
The water should be at the right temperature, between 90°C and 96°C. If your portable coffee maker has a built-in heating function, make sure you activate it correctly to reach and maintain this temperature. This is crucial to efficiently extract the flavors without making the drink bitter.
Controlled Volume
Use the stainless steel water tank, which usually has a capacity of 60 ml (up to 70 ml maximum). Its volume indicator will allow you to measure the exact amount of water, ensuring that the extraction is carried out accurately.
4. Activation of Extraction at 20 Bar
Know your machine
Many modern portable coffee makers are equipped with a piston pump capable of reaching up to 20 bar of pressure. Familiarize yourself with the power button and the heating function: in most of these devices, a double click activates the extraction process.
Time Control
Extraction time is key. An ideal extraction usually lasts between 25 and 30 seconds. If the process is too fast or too slow, adjust the amount of coffee or tamp until you find the optimal point.
5. Additional Techniques for a Perfect Espresso
- Taste and Adjust: Feel free to experiment with coffee dosage and tamp level. Each bean variety may require subtle adjustments to achieve the ideal flavor.
- Use Reusable Capsules: If you prefer the convenience of capsules, make sure you use reusable ones suitable for your portable coffee maker. These allow you to maintain the quality of your coffee and reduce waste.
- Regular Cleaning: A clean coffee machine is essential to maintaining the pure taste of espresso. Wash all removable parts after each use to avoid residue buildup that can affect performance.
Conclusion
Mastering the art of preparing a perfect espresso with a portable coffee machine is not just a matter of technique, but also of passion for coffee. By following these tips and techniques, you will achieve a 20 bar extraction that guarantees a full-bodied, creamy and full-flavoured espresso, ready to accompany you on all your adventures.
Dare to experiment and transform every outing into an unforgettable coffee experience! With practice and the right tips, your portable coffee maker will become the perfect companion to take the authentic taste of espresso wherever you go.