Espresso Machines 101
Espresso coffee is created putting hot water under high pressure in contact with coffee grounds, producing a concentrated brew that is rich and flavorful.
Espresso machines come in various sizes, styles, and configurations from fully automated systems, to simple stovetop brewing devices. Most machines are categorized by its method of creating pressure.
Pump Espresso Machines
Probably the most popular machine available, pump espresso machines generate 9 bars of pressure capable of forcing water through finely ground coffee for maximum flavor.
Lever Espresso Machines
These machines are the original methods to produce espresso and the best way to extract the best flavor. Lever espresso machines use a lever to drive a spring-loaded piston that forces hot water through the espresso coffee. The barista is the operator of the machine and requires skill and precision to produce a delicious brew.
Steam Espresso Machines
While not the most pleasing method to brew espresso, steam espresso machines allow price-conscious consumers to produce espresso-like coffee in their home at a low price. Still, many purist contend that the coffee produced from these machines is not espresso at all, as steam cannot produce adequate pressure for proper espresso.
Stovetop Espresso Makers
Also frowned on by espresso purists, stovetop espresso makers are non-electric and produce espresso by boiling water in a lower chamber, filtering upward to the coffee filled chamber. Still, this method doesn’t not produce the adequate pressure to produce rich, crema topped brew.
