Inconsistency will produce an uneven cup of espresso. As I've discussed in a previous article, electric burr grinders are best at providing the proper grind for your coffee beans. Before starting your machine, heat your espresso cups under hot running water or on the machine's warmer. Use low fat milk, preferably skim milk, to make your froth for lattes and cappuccinos. Now that we've covered the basic components in a great cup of espresso, let's move on to review some of the better-known pieces of equipment available to the home espresso maker.
All prices are approximate retail listings.
The Moka Pot Made in Italy of aluminum, this simple device is not really considered a true espresso maker because it lacks a steaming wand, although it is used widely in European homes. The top chamber holds the finished coffee. The espresso is created when steam pressure forces the hot water up a tube and onto the coffee grounds located in a filter between the two chambers. The coffee then dribbles into the top chamber where it can be poured from a spout. The Moka Pot makes only espresso as it lacks the frothing wand used to steam milk.