Key Ingredients for Brewing the Perfect Cup of Coffee

Exploring Water Quality

May I suggest using bottled or filtered water for your coffee? It’s a simple change that can significantly enhance the taste of your beverages. Plus, filtered water contains less limescale than unfiltered tap water, which means your coffee-making equipment will last longer. Interested in learning more? Check out my Brita glass carafe review.

Savor the Aroma of Freshly Roasted Coffee Beans

Selecting the right coffee beans can significantly enhance the quality of your brew. I would suggest purchasing your beans from a local roaster instead of a supermarket. Coffee sourced from a local roaster tends to be fresher and benefits from a slow roasting process, unlike the quick-fire method employed in industrial settings. Plus, it’s much simpler to trace the origin of your beans when you buy locally.

Discover the Perfect Coffee Grinder

When it comes to using a La Pavoni machine, or indeed any semi-professional or professional machine, the importance of using freshly ground coffee cannot be overstated. Pre-ground coffee bought from the store simply won’t do justice to a La Pavoni. Therefore, the first crucial step is to invest in a top-notch coffee grinder. You’re presented with two options: an electric grinder or a hand grinder.

Exploring the Electric Mill

When it comes to electric grinders for espresso, the variety is indeed vast. While it’s not the primary topic of this article, it’s worth noting that there are two main types of grinders available for your consideration:

• Flat grinding wheels
• Conical grinding wheels

Exploring the Hand Mill

Almost every hand mill you’ll come across is fitted with conical grinding wheels, with only a few exceptions. When it comes to espresso, choosing a grinder with a small wheel isn’t the best idea. Why? Because it would significantly lengthen the grinding time. So, what’s the ideal size? A grindstone that’s at least 47 mm.

Perfecting your espresso requires fine-tuning. Hand grinders offer three potential setting positions for you to explore:

1. Bottom adjustment knob: Located at the grinding wheel, it has a limited adjustment range. For espresso, the ideal setting is often between two notches. Examples: El Comandante C40 and Timemore Chestnut X. However, I don’t recommend them specifically for espresso, as they are better suited to mild extraction methods.
2. Middle adjustment wheel: Positioned on the body of the grinder, it presents the same problem as bottom-adjustment grinders for espresso. The ideal setting is often between two notches.
3. Top-mountedsetting wheel: This is the optimum option for espresso, offering a very wide setting range. Several brands offer grinders with these features, at different prices. Among the main ones are the Kingrinder K4 and K6, and the 1Zpresso. However, I wouldn’t recommend the Timemore S3 for espresso.

The Art of Weighing Coffee: Your Secret to Consistently Perfect Espresso

Accurately weighing your coffee is the secret to a perfect espresso. But don’t worry: while it’s a crucial tool, scales are available across a wide range of prices. The key requirement is to select a scale that offers an accuracy of at least 0.1g, as this will be our margin of error when measuring the coffee.

• For small budgets, the easiest way is to go for small jeweller’s scales, the first prices are around 10€ and we can find them on Amazon.
• For a slightly higher budget, we recommend scales with a timer. This timer will help you measure your espresso extraction time / V60 / AeroPress infusion time.
• For even bigger budgets, there are scales with timers and modes. For example, automatic triggering of the timer at the start of extraction (when the first drops fall into the cups), or auto-tare etc…

Uncover the Hidden Gems of La Pavoni in Levier

Enhance Your La Pavoni Experience with Adequate Preheating

Warming up your La Pavoni (or any coffee machine for that matter) is absolutely vital. While it’s true that La Pavoni necessitates a pre-heat, it’s equally important to warm up all the components involved in brewing the espresso: the machine itself, the filter holder, and the cup. The temperature of the water plays a pivotal role in the coffee extraction process. If any of the required elements are cold, it could impact the temperature of both the water and the coffee, altering the taste. For instance, even if the machine and filter holder are adequately heated, brewing coffee into a cold cup could significantly affect its flavor.

When it’s time to warm up my La Pavoni, I make sure to switch it on a good 15 minutes before I plan to brew my coffee. This ensures it’s at the perfect temperature for a delicious cup!

Let’s Discuss Two Scenarios Involving the Filter Holder:

• With nozzles: Preheating is essential.
• Bottomless : Preheating is not mandatory.

For an optimal coffee experience, it’s essential to preheat your filter holder. Simply attach it to your machine as it warms up. The heat conduction will naturally raise the temperature of your filter holder. To finish off the preheating process, allow a small amount of water to flow through the filter holder towards the end. This ensures it’s perfectly heated and ready for your delicious brew.

Let’s get your cup nice and toasty! To do this, simply run hot water through your La Pavoni machine. This not only warms up your cup but also completes the preheating process for the entire machine. It ensures that the piston, which typically takes a bit longer to heat up, the filter holder, and of course, your cup, are all perfectly preheated and ready to go.

Discover the Perfect Grind for Your Coffee

With the elements now nicely preheated, it’s time to dive into the delightful process of preparing the coffee. Start by measuring the coffee, gently moisten it to prevent clumping, shape it, and then nestle it into the filter holder. Don’t worry, we’ll guide you through each step with care and precision.

Let’s start with measuring your coffee. Personally, I find that 16g of coffee hits the sweet spot for my espressos. However, feel free to experiment and bump it up to 18g if you prefer a stronger brew. The key here is the water-to-coffee ratio, a topic I’ll delve into in an upcoming article. Experiment a bit to discover the perfect balance of coffee and water for your taste. Just remember, if you’re using your machine’s double filter, you’ll need a minimum of 14g of coffee.

For the perfect coffee grind, an espresso grinder is essential. The images showcase the Bplus Apollo coffee grinder, a fantastic choice for this task.

Combat Channeling for a Superior Espresso Experience

Understanding channeling in espresso is a key aspect for any coffee enthusiast or expert. This phenomenon happens when hot water doesn’t flow evenly through the coffee grounds, instead creating specific pathways through the grounds. This can lead to an uneven extraction, resulting in a less than perfect cup of coffee with inconsistent flavors and aromas. To brew the perfect espresso, mastering the methods to prevent and reduce channeling is vital. This ensures a consistent extraction and a truly enjoyable tasting experience. However, this topic won’t be discussed in depth in this article. Instead, I encourage you to check out my other article which is specifically dedicated to the subject of channeling in espresso.

Prevent channeling by adhering to two crucial suggestions: purchase or create your own WDT and ensure you tamp evenly. These two factors are the primary culprits behind channeling in espresso.

Let’s start by pouring the ground coffee into the filter nestled in the La Pavoni‘s filter holder. In this particular illustration, I’m utilizing a bottomless filter holder. Given that the filter of a La Pavoni Europiccola has a diameter of 51 mm, I would suggest using a compact funnel to ensure a neat and tidy process, keeping coffee spills at bay.

Let’s pay close attention to this step, it’s crucial! It helps us avoid channeling. What I do is, I gently break up any clumps and distribute the coffee uniformly across the filter with the help of a WDT.

Find a WDT on Amazon

Let’s take a look at the comparison, both before and after the implementation of the WDT.

Next up, I get to work with a tamper. I personally prefer to use a tamper that comes with a guide, as it assists me in packing the coffee evenly and straight. Here’s a friendly tip for you: Opt for a tamper with a diameter of 51.5 mm. This little trick helps to prevent any coffee residue from lingering around the filter.

At last, I introduce a puck screen to the tightly packed coffee. This puck screen serves multiple purposes: it minimizes channeling and prevents the coffee machine’s spray head from getting clogged with coffee grounds. While it’s not mandatory, I personally consider this accessory to be absolutely essential.

Mastering the Art of Pouring Espresso with a La Pavoni

When using a La Pavoni, you’ll find that it employs a piston. This piston needs to be lifted with the lever to fill the piston’s chamber with water before you begin the extraction process. To avoid creating a vacuum that could potentially break the coffee cake, I find it best to lift the lever about three-quarters of the way before securing the filter holder. However, if you prefer to attach the filter holder prior to lifting the lever, make sure to release the lever with a gentle touch. Failing to do so could result in a vacuum effect that breaks the coffee wafer and leads to channeling.

Next up, I secure the filter holder to the machine and complete the action of lifting the lever to fill the piston chamber with water. After a brief pause, I apply a slight pressure on the lever (just a tad more than the weight of my hand) to initiate the pre-infusion process. This pre-infusion stage lasts for a brief moment (around 5 to 7 seconds) and I halt it once a few droplets of coffee have trickled into the cup. By doing so, the coffee puck becomes thoroughly saturated with water.

Once the pre-infusion stage has been successfully completed, I delicately lift the lever to replenish the water within the lever chamber. Following this, I initiate the extraction process.

When it comes to extracting the perfect cup of coffee, achieving a pressure of 9 bar is key. I personally use my trusty pressure gauge to measure the pressure within the piston chamber. If you don’t happen to have a gauge at your disposal, don’t worry! You can still achieve the desired pressure. Simply apply a similar amount of pressure as you would when tamping coffee. To give you a rough idea, you’re looking at exerting about 12 kg on the lever to reach that golden 9 bar of pressure.

Feel free to adjust the quantity of water to achieve the desired ratio. Opt for an extraction time that falls between 25 and 30 seconds. If you find your extraction process is either too swift or too sluggish, it might be necessary to tweak the amount of coffee or opt for a finer grind (remember, it’s best to alter one setting at a time).

And voila! Here’s the outcome you’ve been waiting for.

Heads Up: It’s crucial not to rush into removing the filter holder right away, as it’s currently under pressure. Please, give it a moment to let the pressure decrease. And don’t forget, always turn off your machine when you’re done.

Tackling Common Issues During Espresso Extraction

Wrapping Things Up

I trust that I’ve been successful in guiding you to become proficient with your La Pavoni. It may take a few attempts, but rest assured, you’ll soon get the hang of this occasionally temperamental machine. Despite its quirks, it’s an exceptional piece of equipment: remarkably easy to maintain, incredibly robust, resilient to wear and tear, and truly aesthetically pleasing.

If you’re intrigued by this topic, you might find this article particularly useful: The Maintenance Guide for a La Pavoni. It provides detailed instructions on changing seals, greasing the piston, and more.

Don’t hesitate to drop your questions, share extra insights, or simply express your thoughts on the article (which indeed took a lot of effort) in the comments section below. I’m eagerly looking forward to reading and responding to your messages.

L’article The Secrets of Using a La Pavoni Lever Espresso Machine est apparu en premier sur CoffeeGeek.

Having explored a vast array of coffee grinders, some of which I’ve had the pleasure of featuring in my previous articles, I’m excited to revisit and refresh my thoughts on the BPlus Apollo today.

Bplus: The Architect Behind the Majestic Apollo

Meet the Apollo coffee grinder, a brainchild of Arthur, the founder of the BPlus company. Hailing from Taiwan, Arthur is not just a businessman, but a coffee aficionado, roaster, and inventor. His company has been a breeding ground for several innovative projects, many of which are directly associated with La Pavoni machines – a brand he proudly represents in Asia.

During one of his journeys, he found inspiration in a column from a Roman temple, which sparked the idea for his mill. I remember the moment I saw the pictures on social media, I was instantly smitten with this mill. Consequently, when it became available, I didn’t hesitate to purchase it. I was eager to see how it would stack up against the Kinu M47 Classic, which I was fortunate to own at the time.

Little did I realize when I penned my comparative analysis of the Kinu M47 Classic and the BPlus Apollo, it would create quite a buzz online. It seems that Kinu has a dedicated group of enthusiasts who were quick to assert that BPlus had simply replicated the Kinu M47. However, this was far from the truth. My article, through its detailed comparison of the two grinders, inadvertently debunked this myth.

Discover the Distinctive Elegance of the Apollo Coffee Grinder

Unlike our competitors such as Timemore, 1Zpresso, Kingrinder and others, who manufacture grinders composed of multiple components that assemble together, the Apollo grinder is uniquely crafted from the ground up using a CNC machine. This results in a product that, when held, feels impressively heavy and robust. I’ve been a proud owner of the Apollo coffee grinder for several years now and its charm never ceases to amaze me.

I personally own the black version of this model. However, you’ll be delighted to know that there are several other vibrant colors available to choose from.

However, let’s return to the distinctive features that set this mill apart for me. Interestingly, when it’s not in use, it serves as a charming piece of decor.

Exploring the Crank Handle

This grinder’s crank doesn’t retract, but it does feature a large, metallic knob that provides an excellent grip. I want to emphasize this aspect as I’ve had the opportunity to test MHW‘s 3Bomber, Kinu, and the Timemore S3 coffee grinders, all of which have significantly smaller crank handles. From my personal experience, I find that a larger handle offers a more comfortable grip.

The elegant “La Pavoni” laser engraving beautifully signifies the enduring connection between BPlus and La Pavoni.

Exploring the Adjustment Wheel

Discover the magic of the adjustment knob nestled at the apex of the mill, where the crank cozily connects to the axle. This axle is the life force that sets the grinding wheels in motion. The knob is your key to precision, enabling you to fine-tune the grind to your exact preference. Rest assured, you’ll never find yourself stuck between two clicks, searching for that elusive perfect setting.

Indeed, it’s interesting to note that most high-end coffee grinders, barring a few exceptions like the Timemore S3, provide an adequate level of fine-tuning for perfect espresso extraction. Factors like the design of the grinding wheels also play a significant role in determining the quality of the grind.

Conversely, grinders that feature a lower setting provide less precision in their adjustments, resulting in a broader gap between the grinding wheels with each click. To illustrate, during my evaluation of the El Commandante C40, I found its performance for espresso extraction somewhat lacking. Interestingly, I often found the perfect setting to be somewhere in between each click.

In essence, if you’re looking for a slow, coarse-grind extraction, you’ll find bottom-adjusting grinders to be your best bet. On the other hand, if you’re aiming for an espresso-type extraction, then top-adjusting grinders would be the ideal choice for you.

Unveiling the Charm of Cork

Unlike the majority of coffee grinders available today, which typically feature a removable handle that’s part of the cap, the Apollo grinder stands out with its non-detachable handle. It also comes with a silicone cap that needs to be fitted prior to use.

While it’s entirely possible to use the grinder without the cap, you might find that tiny fragments of coffee beans could scatter. For me, I tend to lean towards using the stopper provided by BPlus, despite the fact that it doesn’t quite match the aesthetic of the coffee grinder.

Exploring the Structure of the Apollo Coffee Grinder

As previously highlighted in the introduction of this article, the design of the mill draws significant inspiration from a column found in a Roman temple. In essence, the mill beautifully encapsulates the spirit of Italy, the birthplace of espresso and coffee.

I’m not entirely sure about the exact cost involved in manufacturing each of these mills, but I do know that the process is quite time-consuming, especially since each piece is meticulously carved from the ground by a CNC machine. I had a conversation with Arthur a while back and got some insight into this. Surprisingly, he sells the Apollo virtually at its production cost. This implies that his motivation to keep producing this coffee grinder is driven more by his passion than by the prospect of profit. This could explain why his coffee grinders are frequently out of stock.

Let’s circle back to our main discussion. The unique design of the grinder, which tapers to a narrower top and expands into a funnel at the bottom, offers two significant benefits. The funnel design not only facilitates the pouring of coffee into the grinder but also ensures that the ground coffee doesn’t spill out during use.

Exploring the Apollo Grinding Wheel

The grinding wheel of the Apollo is a product of the renowned Italian manufacturer, Itamil. This is the very same grinding wheel that you’ll find in the Kinu and certain 1Zpresso machines, and possibly in other mill brands as well. This grindstone is known for delivering exceptional results when it comes to espresso extractions. With a diameter of 47 mm, it’s crafted from an incredibly durable alloy, ensuring its longevity. I’ve been using this grinder since mid-2018 and have processed kilograms of coffee without noticing any signs of wear. Plus, the grinder’s design allows for easy disassembly, making it a breeze to replace the grinding wheels if the need arises.

Meet the Recipient

The container is meticulously crafted from a solid block, giving it a substantial weight. Its low center of gravity and broad base ensure that the mill maintains stability on your workspace.

The interior of the container is perfectly smooth, devoid of any rims that could potentially trap coffee grounds, a feature I’ve noticed in other coffee grinders. The container’s 58 mm width is a direct match for most filters, adhering to the standard professional format. It’s also designed to screw onto the base. The threading is much more refined than what you’d find on the Kingrinder, for instance. Initially, I was concerned about damaging the thread. However, having owned and frequently used this mill since 2018, I can confidently say it’s held up beautifully without any issues.

A layer of rubber is thoughtfully placed beneath the container to ensure your worktop remains unscathed.

Mastering Espresso Extraction with the Apollo from BPlus and La Pavoni

Mastering the art of brewing espresso with a La Pavoni has been thoroughly discussed in our previous article. As such, we’ll bypass some steps in this guide to focus primarily on the intricacies of the coffee grinder.

Let’s embark on the journey of making the perfect cup of coffee! The initial step involves measuring the coffee accurately. Once done, you’ll need to sprinkle a few droplets of water onto the beans before you grind them. This method is known as the RDT technique. It’s a clever trick that reduces static electricity, a key contributor to retention, ensuring you get the most out of your coffee beans.

Effortlessly, I pour the coffee beans into the grinder. The funnel, a cleverly designed feature of the grinder, ensures that every single bean is guided in smoothly, with none straying off course.

Remember to pop on the silicone stopper. While it’s not a must, it’s a handy little addition that helps to keep those coffee beans in check during the grinding process.

Next, I proceed to grind the coffee. Among the numerous coffee grinders I’ve experimented with, this one stands out as one of the quickest in grinding an equivalent quantity of coffee. This rapidity produces a noticeable torque during the grinding process. BPlus has thoughtfully provided rubber straps that can be wrapped around the grinder for enhanced grip. These bands certainly make the grinder more manageable, but they do somewhat disrupt the aesthetic appeal of Apollo’s design.

In just a matter of moments, I’ve completed the task of grinding my coffee. I then carefully pour it into the filter holder of my trusty La Pavoni. To distribute the coffee evenly, I use my handy WDT. This is a crucial step in the espresso-making process as it helps to prevent the occurrence of channeling.

Understanding Coffee Retention in the Apollo Grinder

Now that we’ve enjoyed our coffee and I’ve successfully set up the puckscreen, it’s the perfect time to delve into the Apollo‘s retention capabilities. You’ll be pleasantly surprised to find out that it’s remarkably low.

Let’s begin with the container. Once you’ve poured the coffee into the filter pan, you’ll notice that there’s not a trace of coffee left behind, except for a fine dusting of powder. This is completely normal and nothing to worry about.

Now, let’s turn our attention to the grinding wheel outlets. Interestingly, they don’t seem to retain a noteworthy amount of coffee.

The minimal retention feature of the Apollo coffee grinder is truly impressive. It’s worth noting that many hand grinders boast low coffee retention, especially at the grindstone outlet. However, the real difference often lies in the design of the container. Certain brands have chosen components or shapes that inadvertently lead to coffee retention. A prime example of this is Kinu. When I had one of their grinders (though this may have changed since), it featured a rim on the inside of the container which inevitably resulted in some coffee retention.

Crafting My Espresso with the BPlus Apollo Grinder

Allow me to present the exquisite espresso I’ve crafted. The coffee was finely ground using the Apollo, and then meticulously extracted with my trusty La Pavoni.

Guidelines on Disassembling Your Apollo Mill

Unlike many manual coffee grinders available out there, the Apollo stands out with its design that prioritizes easy disassembly and cleaning. So, let’s embark on a journey to disassemble this grinder together, shall we?

Let’s get started! First off, it’s a good idea to take note of your mill’s current settings. Once you’ve done that, go ahead and unscrew the bolt that’s securing the crank in place, then carefully remove it.

Next, gently take off the metal adjustment component.

Let’s get started on how to unscrew the nut that holds the setting digits. First, gently take off the container. Now, using your fingers, secure the grinding wheel in place. Once that’s done, you can go ahead and remove the nut. Easy, right?

Let’s carefully take off the grinding wheel and the central axle.

Let’s delve into all the parts you can disassemble on the Apollo without the need for any tools. Isn’t that convenient?

Let’s get started on how to dismantle the fixed section of your grinding wheel. It’s a simple process, really. All you need to do is unscrew a pair of screws. And guess what? You’ll only need an Allen key to do this. Easy, right?

After carefully removing the stationary component of the grinding wheel, we now have effortless access to the mill’s interior. This allows us to clean it thoroughly and efficiently.

Let’s take a closer look at the Apollo spacecraft, meticulously deconstructed for your viewing pleasure.

Wrapping It Up

In conclusion, amidst the influx of coffee grinders flooding the market, one might wonder, does the Apollo still hold its ground? From my perspective, it absolutely does. The Apollo grinder has not only undergone several transformations since I first acquired it, but it’s also the creation of a dedicated artisan who prioritizes excellence over mass production. Granted, there are areas where the Apollo could use some enhancements, like the stopper, which unlike its rivals, isn’t attached to the crank. However, when it’s not grinding away, the Apollo’s stylish design makes it a true conversation starter.

As of this moment, I’ve had the pleasure of owning approximately ten unique manual coffee grinders. However, I’ve parted ways with all of them, save for one – the remarkable Apollo.

Given that this is a trial piece, I find it fitting to award it a commendable score of 4.5 out of 5.

L’article Focus on the BPlus Apollo coffee grinder est apparu en premier sur CoffeeGeek.

Let’s Start with the Basics: What Exactly is Channeling?

Channeling is a term used to describe the irregular flow of water through the coffee grind, a characteristic that is particularly linked to espresso extractions. This occurs as water instinctively takes the easiest route.

Let’s take an example:

When preparing your espresso, after tamping, if your coffee cake is not perfectly straight, one edge will be thinner than the other. This thinner edge offers less resistance to the passage of water. Most of the water will therefore flow down this path, creating a channel. The result? Over-extraction in the thinner zone and under-extraction in the thicker zones. This, of course, has repercussions on the aroma in the cup.

Employing a spouted filter holder might make it a bit tricky to detect channeling. But, when you switch to a bottomless filter holder, this occurrence becomes significantly more visible. You’ll witness a multitude of miniature jets bursting forth from all directions. While this spectacle is indeed captivating, it can also lead to a bit of a clean-up job on your coffee machine.

Having unraveled the mystery surrounding the concept of channeling, let’s delve into the thrilling ways you can tap into its immense potential.

Unraveling the Importance of Uniform Grind Distribution

Unlocking the secret to a perfect cup of coffee lies in the uniform distribution of your grind. This is the cornerstone of successful coffee extraction and the ultimate solution to avoid channeling. Picture this: if your coffee grind isn’t evenly dispersed before tamping, it could lead to areas with different densities. Such inconsistency might trigger channeling, leading to uneven extraction. But fear not, the illustration above paints a vivid image of this process. So, let’s embark on this journey of brewing exceptional coffee together!

You have a delightful array of tools at your fingertips, all designed to help you distribute your coffee evenly before you begin the tamping process:

Minimize Channeling with the Use of a WDT:

The Weiss Distribution Technique, affectionately known as WDT, is a smart approach that uses needles to distribute coffee grounds uniformly, ensuring there are no clumps. This nifty tool can be either bought or even made at home if you’re in the mood for a little DIY project. All you need is a piece of wire and a cork. To ensure the best flexibility, a wire with a diameter of 0.3 mm is the ideal choice.

Looking to maintain a pristine workspace even while brewing your coffee? You might want to think about incorporating a funnel into your routine. This practical gadget is a fantastic ally in warding off those annoying spills on your countertop.

When it comes to my daily coffee ritual, I lean on the Nomcore WDT to guarantee a uniform distribution of my coffee. This nifty gadget features an array of needles that radiate from the handle, enabling it to encompass a wide surface area with each pass. What’s more, it’s entirely fashioned from aluminum, lending an air of elegance to its design. The cherry on top? It’s accompanied by a neat base that fits snugly into my coffee corner, helping to maintain a clean and orderly space.

Although the Normcore model I recommend might not be the most economical choice for such an accessory, rest assured there are plenty of other options that are kinder to your budget. I encourage you to discover these cost-effective alternatives on Amazon.

Master the Art of Using a Coffee Distributor for Ground Coffee

Let’s move on to our second accessory, the coffee distributor. This handy tool guarantees a perfectly even coffee grind before tamping. You may have heard it called by another name – that’s right, it’s also known as a “coffee distributor”.

Picture a multi-faceted wafer that gracefully stirs your coffee, rather than merely jabbing it with needles. That’s the magic of a coffee distributor! These handy tools have gained quite a popularity and are available in a wide array of price points, catering to all budget types. When you’re in the market for one, I’d recommend selecting a model with a bit of heft to it. This ensures it can effectively press into the coffee grounds. If it’s too lightweight, you may find yourself needing to apply extra pressure to get it to rotate properly.

From my personal experience, I’ve found the WDT to be an indispensable tool in my coffee-making arsenal. However, unlike the versatile WDT, the splitter’s compatibility is limited to filters that align with its specific diameter. For example, I have a 51.5 mm splitter for my La Pavoni, but unfortunately, it doesn’t play well with my Lelit Mara X V2 that requires a 58 mm filter. On another note, the tundish is a nifty device made up of three components that can be screwed together, offering the flexibility of depth adjustment. However, there’s a minor hiccup – ground coffee can sometimes sneak between these components, causing a bit of retention. While this retention is quite negligible, it’s always a good idea to steer clear of it if you can.

Become a Pro at the Art of Packing

Getting the perfect tamp is key to ensuring a balanced water flow through your coffee. If your coffee puck isn’t perfectly flat after tamping, you might run into some problems. You see, water is a bit like us – it always looks for the easiest way out. So, it will naturally flow through the thinnest part of the coffee puck first. This uneven flow can lead to over-extraction, a coffee faux pas that can take a toll on the taste and quality of your brew.

Without a tamper guide, mastering the art of packing straight might seem daunting. However, rest assured that with practice and experience, this task will soon become as natural as breathing. Before you know it, incorrect packing will be nothing more than a distant memory.

When it comes to the art of tamping, positioning is key. Ideally, your filter holder should be kept upright. A simple solution is to rest it on the edge of your workspace. But for an even smoother experience, consider using a practical docking station. It’s a game-changer!

Are you contemplating an investment in a tamper with a guide? If that’s the case, I’m thrilled to recommend two exceptional models for your consideration:

• Normcore V4
• The MHW 3Bomber torque wrench.

Both products certainly bring a lot to the table, but if I had to pick a favorite, I’d lean towards the Normcore tamper. Let me share with you why:

• choose the force applied when tamping (by replacing springs)
• It has a guide
• It covers all the diameters on the market (and comes in 58.5 mm, unlike the MHW 3Bomber tamper), etc.

Choosing the ideal tamper is truly a matter of personal preference. Seek out a tool that not only aligns with your aesthetic sensibilities, but also provides a comfortable grip and ease of use.

Solving the Mystery: How to Eliminate the Crater in Your Coffee Cake?

Have you ever noticed your coffee machine’s spray head releasing a water jet so powerful that it creates a crater in your coffee cake? If so, we have a simple and effective solution for you – a puck screen. This ingenious device, essentially a metal mesh, gently disperses the water jet for a more uniform distribution over your coffee cake. The result? It not only minimizes channeling but also keeps your machine’s spray head sparkling clean by warding off coffee ground accumulation. For a smoother, cleaner coffee experience, why not give this puck screen a try?

Have you thought about trying out a puck screen? It’s designed with several layers of mesh to ensure top-notch performance. Just to give you an idea, the one I personally use is 1.7 mm thick and it’s been working like a charm.

Master the Art of Grinding for Your Ideal Cup of Coffee

Just as the freshness of your coffee beans plays a pivotal role in brewing the perfect cup, the quality of your grind is equally significant to avoid channeling. The grind size should be customized not only to your espresso machine but also to the specific type of coffee you’re using. A grind that’s too fine may cause over-extraction, leading to a bitter taste, while a grind that’s too coarse could result in under-extraction, giving you a weak and watery espresso.

It’s an undeniable truth that a superior coffee grinder is the key to achieving the perfect grind. When it comes to crafting my espresso, I wholeheartedly endorse the Niche Zero electric coffee grinder. But wait, there’s more – I also have a pair of reliable hand grinders at my disposal: the KINGrinder and the Apollo from BPlus. These are my faithful companions in my quest for the ultimate coffee experience.

The consequences of too fine a grind for espresso extraction

If your grind is too fine, the water will block, seek to circulate and end up doing so, creating the channels I mentioned at the beginning of the article. This means that, after a time that is probably too long for your extraction, the channeling effect will affect the flavours in the cup. In extreme cases, if the grind was really too fine, you can see this by breaking the cake of coffee grounds in half after extraction: some areas will be drier than others.

The effects of a coarse grind on espresso extraction

If the grind is too coarse, the water will pass through the coffee cake too easily, resulting in overall under-extraction. This is reflected in the cup, with a less aromatic coffee.

Bringing It All Together

Preparing your espresso is an art that demands consistency and precision, especially when you’re working with professional-grade equipment. Remember, even the tiniest variation can have a substantial effect on your brew’s extraction process, altering the taste and quality of your espresso.

L’article 4 Expert Tips to Eliminate Channeling with a Bottomless Portafilter est apparu en premier sur CoffeeGeek.