Espresso Recipe
Make Espresso Recipe in just 10m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Coffee
Optional serving
Method
Equipment and prep
- 1
Prepare machine and tools
Ensure your espresso machine is powered on and at brewing temperature. Flush the group head by running hot water through it for 5–10 seconds to stabilize temperature. Warm the portafilter and cup by locking the empty portafilter in place and running a short shot of water, or by rinsing them with the hot water reserved for warm-up. Dry the portafilter basket and spout before dosing.
Dose, grind and distribute
- 2
Weigh and grind
Weigh 18 g of whole beans. Grind to a fine espresso setting (texture like powdered sugar but not flour). Freshly grind immediately before brewing for best flavor.
- 3
Tamp preparation
Transfer the 18 g of ground coffee into a clean, dry 58 mm (or machine-appropriate) portafilter basket. Level the grounds with a distribution tool or by tapping the side of the portafilter to remove visible voids. Apply a firm, even tamp with about 25–30 pounds (11–14 kg) of pressure. Polish the puck with a slight twist to create a smooth surface and wipe any loose grounds from the rim.
Brew
- 4
Pull the shot
Lock the portafilter into the group head and start the shot immediately. Aim for a 1:2 brew ratio: 18 g in to about 36 ml out. Target total extraction time of 25–30 seconds from the moment water first contacts the coffee. The shot should start as a thin, honey-like stream and finish with a slightly thicker golden crema.
- 5
Adjust if needed
If extraction finishes too quickly (<22 s) and is watery, grind finer or increase dose slightly. If extraction is too slow (>35 s) and over-extracted or bitter, grind coarser or reduce dose slightly. Make small adjustments (one click on grinder) and repeat until you hit the target time and yield.
Serve
- 6
Cleaning
- 7
After serving, remove the portafilter, knock out the used puck, rinse the portafilter and wipe the group head. Backflush the machine according to manufacturer recommendations at the end of the day.
