Should I get a DeLonghi BAR32 Espresso Maker?

Today, with the ever growing popularity of espresso, there are more machines on the market than ever before. They come in almost any size and shape, and cover a wide range of prices from as little as thirty dollars to well into the thousands of dollars. So, how do you know what you are buying? What are the signs of a good espresso maker?

To better understand what makes for a good espresso machine, you first have to understand the different types of machines available. There are three main types: steam driven machines, pump driven machines, and piston driven machines.

Steam driven varieties function by using steam pressure that results from forcing hot water through the finely ground coffee. This is considered to be the original, and most authentic, way to make espresso. This was also the only method used to make espresso up until sometime in the 1940s. The lower priced machines are usually steam driven, as there are no moving parts or complicated mechanisms.

Pump driven machines, use a motorized pump to pressurize the water and send it through the ground coffee. This is thought to be a very accurate way of creating the needed pressure, however many coffee espresso aficionados disagree on this issue. This type of machine is quite popular in coffee houses, espresso bars, and now in your home too.

Piston driven machines are similar in function to pump driven machines; however the user applies the pressure by pulling a lever, rather than a motorized pump carrying out the act. There are actually two variations of piston machines: manual and spring piston. Spring piston machines are responsible for that decorative and tasty bit of cream that is placed on the top of espresso shots.

So what makes one type of machine better than another? Unfortunately, the answer to this question has a lot to do with you. You should always choose a machine that will match your espresso consumption needs. If it is just you enjoying a cup or two here and there, a basic steam machine, with a single water chamber should suffice. If you entertain a great deal or have a need to make larger amounts of espresso, a more elaborate commercial grade machine with multiple water chambers is probably a better option. This type of machine allows for different beverages to be made at the exact same time. Some machines have extra features that may also be useful to you, such as a milk steamer or frother. Better quality machines have separate components for milk and cream.

Take a bit of time and research the different brands and varieties of machines available. Just like with buying a new computer, or a new car, the choice ultimately depends upon your exact needs, and what is going to make you happy. Take your time, read reviews, visit some coffee houses, and talk to other espresso fans. When you have found the machine you feel is best for you, make sure you learn the proper way to prepare this tasty drink. Once you have completed these steps you will be well on your way to preparing delicious espresso drinks just like the professionals make.

Espresso is not a new coffee drink, but it is one that has been growing a great deal in popularity. While the beverage is considered to be quite elegant and special, there is a good deal of confusion as to how to brew the perfect cup. Most questioned is the type of coffee needed to do so. Is there any difference in the coffee used to make an espresso compared to a traditional cup of coffee?

The simple answer to this question is, no! Espresso is not about the type of coffee, or coffee beans used, it is completely about how the beverage is made. While many people believe they need to run out and purchase expense coffee beans, specialty blends, or even beans marked for "espresso use", this is not necessarily true. While taste can be somewhat affected by the type of bean used, technique is the most important aspect.

Espresso, just as with regular coffee, is a process of combing hot water and coffee beans. However, the manner in which these two ingredients are combined is what makes or breaks this drink. Espresso coffee needs water that is perfectly heated to 194 degrees Fahrenheit (or 90 degrees Centigrade). If you heat the water too much the espresso will be bitter; if you do not heat it enough, the espresso will be sour. When the water is at exactly the right temperature, the water is forced through the ground coffee perfectly. Espresso is thicker than regular drip coffee due to the way the water is pressurized; drip coffee is made by allowing water to slowly drip into the ground coffee and then filtered.

You can really select any type of coffee bean to make espresso that you personally enjoy. That being said, there are certain varieties of beans that have become popular with many espresso connoisseurs. Darker beans have become associated with espresso, due mainly to name-brand coffee shops that offer the beverage. Some people prefer to select their own level of roasting for a stronger or weaker taste. Custom bean blending is also increasing in popularity amongst many serious espresso drinkers as well.

Aside from the actual type of coffee bean selected, the grind of the bean is also quite important to a perfect cup of espresso. The finer the grind, the more robust and full the taste of the beverage will be.

Keep in mind, one cup of espresso is more concentrated and contains a great deal more caffeine than a traditional cup of coffee. Once you get the hang of brewing this delicious beverage, try adding it to cappuccino or with mocha for an even more unique flavor.