FAQ About Coffee

In Italy, coffee is an integral part of the culture, and the traditional method of brewing coffee is through an espresso machine. Espresso, meaning "pressed out" in Italian, refers to a concentrated shot of coffee brewed under high pressure. Here's how coffee is typically brewed in Italy:

Espresso Machine and Equipment:

• Espresso Machine: Italian coffee shops and households often have espresso machines that generate high-pressure steam for brewing.
• Espresso Grinder: Whole coffee beans are freshly ground using an espresso grinder.
• Portafilter: This is a handle with a filter basket that holds the coffee grounds during the brewing process.
• Tamper: A tool used to evenly compress the coffee grounds in the portafilter.

Coffee Beans:

• Italians have a preference for medium to dark roasted coffee beans, typically with a blend of Arabica and Robusta varieties.

Grinding and Dosing:

• Just before brewing, a barista or coffee lover grinds the coffee beans to a fine consistency using an espresso grinder.
• The desired amount of coffee grounds, typically around 18-20 grams, is then dosed into the portafilter.

Tamping:

• The coffee grounds in the portafilter are evenly distributed and then firmly tamped using a tamper.
• Tamping ensures an even extraction and proper flow of water through the coffee.

Brewing Process:

• The portafilter, filled with the tamped coffee grounds, is locked into the espresso machine.
• The machine delivers pressurized hot water, typically around 9 bars of pressure, through the coffee grounds in a short amount of time, typically 20-30 seconds.
• The high pressure and short extraction time result in a concentrated shot of espresso with crema, a creamy layer on top.

Serving:

• Espresso shots are served in small, narrow cups called demitasse cups. They usually hold around 1-2 ounces (30-60 milliliters).
• Espresso is commonly consumed quickly, often standing at a bar counter, as Italians enjoy the concentrated and intense flavor in a short span of time.
• Espresso shots can be consumed as is or used as a base for other popular Italian coffee drinks such as cappuccino or macchiato.