Instead of running to your local coffee shop or favorite corner café
for the perfect cut of espresso, consider making your own at home. If
the thought of becoming a kitchen barista has you shaking without any
caffeine, think again! There are a wide variety of espresso machines
that are geared for home use, from the basic to the same machines used
by the professionals.
However, before you drop a couple hundred of dollars on that top of the
line espresso machine, consider your options and needs. Also, if you
are experiencing sticker shock from some of the higher end espresso
machines, keep in mind that you are saving a great deal on a daily
basis by avoiding high priced indulgences at coffee shops or cafes.
The first think you should know before choosing a home espresso machine
is that there are several different varieties of machines. Each
different type of machine will come with a different price tag and
different capabilities. Although the top of the line machine may be
nice, it may not necessarily meet your needs. Instead of buying an
espresso machine simply because it is deemed the “best,” buy a machine
that you can (and will) use on a regular basis. The different types of
home espresso machines are:
Pump Espresso: Typically what you will find in a coffee shop, a pump
espresso machine are usually made for commercial purposes, but can be
used in your home. Be prepared to expand your budget if you are looking
to purchase a pump espresso machine, since they are typically the
priciest of the bunch. Also, pump espresso machines are usually the
largest, heaviest, and noisiest of the options, but it produces a
fantastic cup of espresso. These machines work by using a pump to keep
the water pressure at an appropriate level.
Piston Espresso: If you are looking for a great, low maintenance
espresso machine, consider those than run on a piston or lever system.
Instead of a pump to create pressure, these machines use a level that
must be maneuvered in order to create steam. Although a piston espresso
machine is very quiet, they may require a great deal of arm strength to
continually pull on the lever. Furthermore, the piston espresso machine
is capable of making a great cup of espresso, but it may take practice
to get the hang of the process.
Steam Espresso: Using steam to create pressure to make the espresso,
these steam powered espresso machines are typically the type found in
the home. With smaller machines that occupy less space and cost less
money, steam espresso machines are quite quick and easy to use.
However, keep in mind that the steam produced may not provide the
appropriate level of pressure, so the steam level should be constantly
maintained.
Moka Pots: Moka Pots are a stovetop method to producing espresso. The
process is simple and easy, although the final product may be less than
professional. Using specially designed two-part pot, the steam produced
by the water boiling in the bottom of the pot is forced into the top
part of the pot, where the coffee is boiling. It requires a great deal
less pressure than the other types of home espresso machines, but there
is no milk frothing or foaming attachments, so you may have to
sacrifice that feature for price and size.
Any one of these different types of home espresso machines will allow
you to make a delicious cup of espresso. Your choice should be based
upon needs, usability, overall size of the machine, and of course the
price. A high end espresso machine can run up a bill in the thousands
of dollars.
