Create Third Wave Specialty Coffee at Home With a Small Espresso Machine
Create specialty coffees of the third wave at your home in under a minute from bean to espresso. 19 bars of pressure extract maximum flavor and water is at the ideal temperature in just 30 seconds.
The machine is sleek and slim, and fits perfectly on your kitchen counter. It's also extremely energy efficient and cost-effective, shutting it off after 9 minutes.
1. Simple to use
There are a myriad of options available for you to let an automated system do the work for you. The most well-known are capsule machines with automatics that let you insert an empty pod and press the button, or semi-automatics that require you pack the portafilter manually but use an electric pump to ensure consistent pressure and flow. These machines are equipped with a milk frother to make cappuccinos and Latte. Fully automatic machines may be more expensive, but they will do everything for you. They grind and brew coffee as well as heat and frothmilk.
You'll have to refill your espresso maker more frequently if you choose smaller size. They're easier to use and have a lower profile which is why they can be placed under cabinets.
This compact model from Mody is one of the most affordable we have reviewed, but it is powerful enough to produce great espresso. It's got 15 bar of pressure that is more than enough for a nice shot. It's also an ideal size for most kitchens, and is small enough to fit underneath some cupboards. Its small size doesn't hamper its capabilities, either - the cup-filter and drip tray are easy to take off and clean. It has settings for different types of drinks.
2. Easy to clean
A small espresso machine can be an excellent addition to any home or office, especially for people who like their coffee with a little some milk. But, it is important to remember that these machines can be difficult to clean. It is because espresso machines require lots of cleaning and use an enormous amount of water.
There are a myriad of ways to clean an espresso machine, but the most effective is to use a cleaning product designed specifically for espresso machines. This solution can be made with citric, vinegar or commercial descaling products. Descale your espresso machine at a minimum every two months.
It is also important to rinse the group heads and steam wand after each use. This will stop the buildup of coffee oil and other residues which can affect the flavor. To do this, first switch off the water supply to the espresso maker and remove the portafilters from the group head. Clean the group heads with a coffee tool or brush. Then, spray the interior of the group head and dispersion screens with a cleaning solution. Finally, rinse the group head and gaskets with cool water to eliminate any residue. Replace the portafilters.
3. Easy to maintain
The most recent models are nearly impervious to theft. They make it simple to make high-quality espressos at home. These models are also more affordable than ever before and take up less space on the counter.
The best small espresso maker is easy to keep clean and can aid in keeping your kitchen neat and organized. A clean coffee machine makes the best tasting coffee and will last longer. It's important to keep up with routine maintenance tasks like rinsing and cleaning the drip tray and group head, and cleaning the water tank.
After each use, clean the machine with hot soapy tap water. Full Record clean it at least every six months. Espresso machines require more frequent cleaning at least once a week. This is because espresso machines have many parts that accumulate dirt and grime faster.
One of the most common reasons for a malfunctioning espresso machine is blocked ports and filters. Blockages can be caused by incorrect tamping or grinding, or not completely removing the solubles from the coffee. These blockages may also be caused by a lack of regular cleaning.
It is recommended to keep an ongoing routine to prevent this. Rinse the portafilters, baskets as well as gaskets frequently, and scrub the steam wands and group heads thoroughly to remove stuck on coffee grounds. Some people use distilled vinegar and water as a substitute for detergent.
4. Easy to store
A quick cup of coffee can give you that boost you need. It's a common feature in European and American cafe culture, and it's even popular in some workplaces to keep employees going throughout late-night shifts.
Small espresso machines are usually lightweight and take up little counter space. They can also be taken to work or out on vacation which makes them an ideal choice for those who travel a lot.
This type of espresso machine is demonstrated by the Ascaso Baby T Plus. It has all of the features and programming options of a top-of-the-line espresso machine, such as volumetric programming and PID control, but it is smaller. With separate thermoblocks for steam and espresso, it can also reduce energy consumption by heating up or cooling down less quickly than traditional multiboiler models.
Another great option is the Breville Bambino Plus. This machine can make espresso, cappucino and coffee. It uses a thermocoil that can bring the temperature of water up to coffee-brewing temperatures which is a lot faster than the standard electromechanical thermostatic controls found on older machines. It also reduces the time needed to return from the temperature of the boiler to the temperature of your shot, which can enhance the taste and consistency of your coffee. It's also very simple to use and requires little maintenance. It's a perfect espresso machine for those who want to avoid the expense and hassle of buying espresso from the bar or coffee shop every morning.