I actually bought this as a birthday gift for my Dad but I fully plan on stealing borrowing it when he gets his espresso machine repaired. I’ve seen this plastic contraption being sold at a number of legit coffee shops both here in Victoria and in Seattle and hey if they are selling it on their shelves then I figured it must be good. All I had to do was make my first cup of coffee with this thing and it was love at first sip.
First thing is you need some finely ground (espresso grind) coffee and hot water boiled to about 170ºF. This is temp of water that is best to extract a good flavour from the grinds without scolding the coffee, resulting in a smooth and balanced espresso. I can see the water temp thing being an inconvenience if using a conventional kettle where controlling the temp can be a task but fortunately I have a temp adjustable electric water boiler that can boil water to 185ºF.
Anyways basically take filter and attach to plastic tube, add scoop of coffee grinds, add hot water, stir for 10 seconds, press down plunger for 20-60 seconds. Voila! In 30-60 seconds you have an excellent freshly brewed espresso and clean up is as easy as giving the parts a rinse.
To make into an Americano simply add more hot water and similarly to make a latte add hot milk to the espresso. The flavour of coffee when brewed with this machine is remarkable. The flavour of coffee is pungent and bold while being well rounded and balanced without any prominent acidity or bitterness.
Oh by the way perfect for camping! Latte before the big hike anyone?
Can be purchased at Café Fantastico for $40 (includes 100g ground coffee beans)
More coffee love:
https://fancyfrites.com/2014/06/26/coffee-lovers-guide-Victoria/
https://fancyfrites.com/2014/02/16/a-coffee-haters-guide-to-seattle/
https://fancyfrites.com/2015/02/10/starbucks-reserve-roastery-tasting-room-seattle-wa/
