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ItalianAuthentic Cuisine

Espresso

Serves 4 to 6 Beverage vegetarian, Beverages

Espresso

Espresso is the lifeblood of Italian daily life, brewed with precision and passion in every corner café from Rome to Milan. This home version captures that essence, crafted with the same care and spontaneity as a family cook would, without the formality of café rituals. Here, espresso is less about ceremony and more about the comfort and familiarity of a well-loved routine.

Rich and intense, a perfect shot of espresso should envelop the palate with its deep, robust flavors, balanced by a subtle, smooth crema. The bold, concentrated essence of the coffee, brewed with just the right amount of water, offers a moment of pure Italian indulgence, whether savored alone or as the cornerstone of an elaborate dessert.

Ingredients

  • 18 gfinely ground espresso coffee
  • 30 mlwater

Method

  1. Begin by preheating your espresso cup. Fill it with hot water and let it sit while you prepare the machine. This ensures the espresso stays hot when served. Next, flush the group head of your espresso machine by running water through it for about 5 seconds. This step cleans any residual coffee grounds and heats the machine to the optimal temperature for brewing.
  2. Measure 18 grams of finely ground espresso coffee. It's crucial to use freshly ground coffee for the best flavor. Place the coffee into the portafilter basket, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Use a tamper to press down firmly and evenly on the coffee grounds, creating a level puck. This ensures even extraction and prevents water from channeling through the grounds.
  3. Attach the portafilter securely to the group head of the espresso machine. Place your preheated cup under the spout. Begin the extraction process by starting the machine. Watch closely as the espresso flows; it should start with a deep brown color and transition to a lighter, hazelnut color as the crema forms. Aim for a total volume of about 25 ml, which should take approximately 25 to 30 seconds.
  4. Once the espresso reaches the desired volume and the crema has a rich, hazelnut appearance, stop the extraction. Immediately remove the cup from the machine to prevent over-extraction, which can lead to bitterness.
  5. Serve the espresso immediately to enjoy its full flavor and aroma. Traditionally, it is served without sugar, but you may offer sugar on the side if requested. Enjoy the espresso while it's hot, savoring the balance of flavors and the creamy texture of the crema.
Cover of Authentic Italian Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Italian Cuisine

This recipe is from Authentic Italian Cuisine by Yassine Sbiti — the Italian volume in the ComidaTime International Cuisines series.

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