Espresso
Definition
Common Mistakes
- Using coffee that's too coarse (should be fine, like table salt)
- Brewing for too long or too short (aim for 25-30 seconds)
- Using stale coffee beans (espresso requires fresh beans, ideally within 2 weeks of roast)
- Not preheating the portafilter and machine
- Tamping inconsistently or with wrong pressure
Related Topics
Related Guides
How to Dial In Your Espresso: A Step-by-Step Guide
Struggling with sour or bitter shots? Learn the professional workflow for 'dialing in' your espresso for perfect results every time.
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Starting your espresso journey? We've researched the top entry-level machines to help you find the perfect balance of ease-of-use and quality.
Read more →Related Terms
Crema
Crema is the golden-brown foam layer that forms on top of a well-pulled espresso shot. It's created ...
Tamping
Tamping is the process of compressing ground coffee in the portafilter basket before brewing espress...
Channeling
Channeling occurs when water finds paths of least resistance through the coffee puck during espresso...
Extraction
Extraction is the process of dissolving coffee compounds (sugars, acids, oils, caffeine) from ground...
Grind Size
Grind size refers to how coarsely or finely coffee beans are ground, and it's one of the most critic...