How to make espresso without a machine

Espresso is a popular type of coffee, but not everyone can or wants to invest in a fancy espresso machine. So, you can’t enjoy an espresso style drink at home? Not at all, there are a number of inexpensive tools and methods you can use to create an espresso type drink that is equal to the quality of what a most home machine can produce. In this article, we will be delving into these methods individually to help you find the right one for you and making your espresso style drink at home.

Method 1: AeroPress

For this method you will need:

• An AeroPress
• High-quality, fair trade espresso beans
• Tablespoon or scale
• Grinder

This method is recommended as unlike a normal cup of coffee, the best shot of espresso is all about pressure. The AeroPress is the perfect fit for approximating espresso. Even though the texture might be different from what you would get with a machine, the flavour and caffeine content of an AeroPress “espresso” make for an impressive match to the machine version.

Step 1

Stack your AeroPress and put a filter inside the drain cap, if possible, use more than one to slow down the flow of water when pressing. Lightly rinse filter; place drain cap and filter in press's compartment. Set press on stable cup/mug.

Step 2

Grind 2 tbsp coffee beans to a fine, salt-like texture; add to filter. Keep in mind that adding more coffee than usual could work to your advantage as it will make a more reliably concentrated shot.

Step 3

Add roughly 3 ½ fluid ounces / 90ml of water and heat to 93 degrees. Stir with the coffee and push down hard on the plunger. A good espresso relies on pressure! Pour your espresso into a demitasse and enjoy.

Method 2: Moka Pot

For this method you will need:

• A moka pot
• High quality coffee beans
• Tablespoon or scale

A moka pot is a small but very useful kettle that creates an espresso-like pour that will kickstart your day the right way. You might not get a taste that is exactly like the machine espresso you’re used to at your local coffee shop or café, but it will still be satisfying all the same.

Step 1

Measure out around 2 tablespoons of coffee (or coffee beans) and grind your beans as finely as you can.

Step 2

Pour water into the bottom part of the pot. Put coffee grounds in filter and shake. Securely tighten spout of moka pot, place on a burner and turn to medium heat.

Step 3

The last part of this process will resemble listening for a tea kettle to whistle. Wait until the coffee starts to expand and foam in the top level of the pot – the hot water will build up the pressure that is needed to create a concentrated coffee, and a bit of foam. When coffee has filled the top, pour into a demitasse and it’s ready to enjoy. It’s worth noting that using a moka pot isn’t a precise art, so it could take a few attempts before you find the right process.

Method 3: French Press

For this method you will need:

• A French press
• Coffee beans
• Tablespoon or scale
• A kettle

As one of the most commonly owned materials by coffee lovers, the French press will give you a concentrated brew (if prepared correctly), but this method is only advised as a last resort. The French press will deliver results, but it won’t have the concentrated punch of the other two methods. In addition, your shot of coffee might come out a bit oilier and there are more steps involved to reach the end result.

Step 1

Grind a minimum of two tablespoons of coffee finely. You will likely need more coffee than you think to add extra richness to the brew, as it won’t end up as frothy as if you’re using a moka pot or AeroPress.

Step 2

Boil a cup of water in a kettle, stopping just before 93 degrees. Whilst this is happening put the grounds in a French press.

Step 3

Add a hint of hot water to release the flavours of the beans and leave the grounds to soak for around 30 seconds.

Step 4

Pour the rest of the water on the grounds, then shut the lid. Allow the coffee to steep for approximately 4 minutes.

Step 5

Press the plunger halfway down with slow, steady pressure. Pull it all the way up to the top and then push it fully down using the same even pressure as before. Pour into a cup or mug and enjoy.

Summary

Those are the three main ways you can make espresso at home without an espresso machine. We hope you have found this guide helpful and if you’re looking for the perfect espresso blend coffee, Pumphreys has got you covered. We supply a wide range of coffee types so you can find the perfect one to fit your taste preferences and daily routine. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly team if you have any questions.