Basic Guide for Breville (or similar) Espresso Machines:
- 18g fine ground coffee
- 36-40ml liquid espresso
- 30 seconds extraction
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Prepare: Tare your scale with the portafilter attached.
- Measure: Add 18g of ground coffee into the portafilter. If the espresso flows too quickly, consider a finer grind for next time.
- Even & Tamp: Level the grounds by tapping the portafilter sides, then tamp firmly to create a uniform surface. A slight twist off ensures no grounds stick to the tamper.
- Rinse: Flush the group head briefly (1-2 seconds), then tare your scale with your cup ready under the portafilter.
- Brew: Insert the portafilter and start brewing.
- Stop: Aim to stop the shot 2 grams before your target weight.
Note: This recipe might need adjustments based on your specific grinder, espresso machine, and coffee type. It serves as a reliable foundation.
Grinding Tip:
Consider how water interacts with different grind sizes: finer grinds slow the water, coarser grinds speed it up. Adjust the grind size if your espresso extracts too quickly (finer) or to slow (coarser).