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Coffee Glossary

Espresso

Definition

Espresso is a concentrated coffee beverage brewed by forcing hot water under high pressure through finely-ground coffee beans. It's the foundation of many coffee drinks like cappuccinos, lattes, and Americanos. A single shot of espresso typically uses 7-9 grams of coffee and produces about 30ml (1 ounce) of liquid in 25-30 seconds. The high pressure (typically 9 bars) creates a rich, creamy layer called crema on top. Espresso has a stronger flavor and higher caffeine concentration per volume compared to drip coffee, though a standard serving contains less total caffeine than a full cup of coffee.

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

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