Making a Good Cup of Espresso
The best espresso is extraordinarily sweet, has a "scent-sational" aroma, with a flavor similar to freshly ground coffee. The cream should be dark reddish-brown and smooth, yet thick. A perfect espresso should be enjoyable straight with no additives, yet bold enough to not disappear in milk.
- Choose a good espresso mix. Store beans in a glass or opaque container, well sealed. Avoid very dark colored beans and those that are excessively shiny. The blending and roasting of variety beans is what makes each brand unique.
- Grind the beans very finely just before using them.
- If your tap water has too much calcium or other minerals, use bottled water.
- Use a coffee maker that will make only the number of cups needed.
- Note: Once you have mastered how to make Italian coffee, it is fun to create some coffee desserts.
See also:
Espresso Variations,
Achieve Coffee Perfection!