Related categories: Mug, Coffee, Espresso, Travel Mugs
Espresso makers allow you to make delicious Italian style coffee on your own stove. Compared to conventional coffee machines, the flavour of the coffee is more intense and aromatic when preparing it in this traditional Italian way. Another advantage of this small coffee wonder: Espresso makers take up little space, are easy to operate and are extremely cheap compared to real espresso and coffee machines.
The octagonal shape of the pre-war models was changed significantly in favour of improved product properties: Today, renowned designers like Alessi or Tom Dixon produce modern espresso makers out of stainless steel and cast aluminium - a must-have for any kitchen. The Pulcina espresso maker by Alessi has a beautiful appearance and produces the best tasting coffee thanks to its optimised shape. The corresponding coffee crockery completes the pleasurable experience.
The Right Coffee Maker – What you Should Know when Buying
1. Design and Material
2. Function
3. Usage Demands
4. What Coffee to Use
5. Capacity
6. Care Instructions
7. Price
The copper-coloured Tom Dixon espresso maker in brushed stainless steel will enchant you with its nostalgic flair. Tom Dixon - one of the most important designers in the UK - has received a number of different awards for his products. The Italian metal company Alessi skillfully combines innovative and timeless designs with practical requirements: Making coffee has never been so beautiful.
Whether the coffee maker is made of aluminium or stainless steel, the material must be heat-resistant. Therefore espresso cookers made of aluminium will not always be lightweight, but those in stainless steel will be heavier. The products weigh between 229 grams to 1 kilogram.
The various coffee pots work according to the percolator principle:
1. Fill the lower chamber with water (pre-heated water will give the coffee a better taste because the metal only has to be heated for a short amount of time.) Fill it to just below the level of the safety valve.
2. Fill the filter funnel with finely ground coffee powder. Slightly pat down the coffee, but do not compress it.
3. Insert the funnel into the bottom of the pot, then assemble the top and bottom.
4. Put the pot on your hob at a medium heat temperature: When the water heats up, steam is generated. This increases the pressure in the bottom chamber and pushes the water up through the coffee granules and into the top chamber. An audible hissing sound will signal that your coffee is ready - now only steam will emerge from the steamer funnel.
Whilst Moka pots or Caffettieras are great for making a strong coffee, the resulting pressure of 1.5 bar is not enough to make a real espresso - which can only be achieved with an espresso machine.
The small robust coffee pots are ideal for the daily coffee ritual. Heat-resistant, ergonomic handles, which underline the design of the coffee maker make them easy to use.
While most espresso makers made of aluminium are not suitable for induction cookers, espresso makers out of stainless steel can usually be used on all types of stoves. Tip: If a magnet sticks to the bottom of the pot, this means that the coffee maker is suitable for the induction hob.
Special espresso roasts promise the greatest taste, but any other coffee bean mixture can be used. Whether freshly ground or already purchased in coffee powder form - the degree of grinding determines the taste: The powder should be finer than for filtered coffee and coarser than for an espresso machine with a sieve support system.
The capacity is specified as number of cups obtained when preparing the coffee. Depending on the manufacturer, a cup portion varies between 30 ml to 70 ml. You can find espresso makers from 70 ml to 300 ml; some models also exist in different sizes. Minimalistic design, simple and practical: The Alessi espresso maker "Pina" has a capacity of 150 ml and a diameter of 9.2 cm, which is enough for about three cups of espresso. For each device, it is recommended to make the maximum amount of coffee that fits in the cooker: The flavour of the coffee in a half-empty coffeepot is less intense.
Depending on the surface finish, it may be possible to clean the coffee maker in the dishwasher – but without the rubber seals. Hand-washing is better: Wash the pot with clear water, rinse well, wipe it with a soft cloth and then let it air dry. Clogged portafilters should be cleaned thoroughly. Mirror polished espresso makers out of stainless steel should not be treated with corrosive detergents. If you do not like the patina that appears after some time, you can boil your espresso maker with citric acid or diluted vinegar.
A basic model can be purchased for less than 50 euros, whilst coffee makers such as the coffee maker by Tom Dixon is mid-range. The Alessi company is represented in every price category, of which we also have exquisite design examples such as the Officina Alessi- "La Conica".
You would like to buy a design coffee maker but need some help? Feel free to contact our customer care service any time. We are happy to help and give advice, make recommendations and resolve any issues quickly and efficiently. Have your favourite pieces safely delivered to your home within just a few working days!