How to buy and use moka pot

Moka pots are three chambered pots: lower chamber is for water, middle is filter funnel where the coffee grounds go and the top chamber is where the coffee ends up. Additionally there is a filter plate that goes in front of central column in top chamber and rubber seal which ensures that hot liquid doesn't leak from between the lower and the top chamber. Most of the moka pots are made either from stainless steel or aluminum. It is recommended to get the stainless steel model, because aluminum can add bad taste to the coffee.

When heated up, some of the water vaporizes creating the steam which reaches the pressure high enough to force the water from lower chamber up the filter funnel and through the coffee grounds to the top chamber where it is collected. Finally when the lower chamber is nearly empty steam bubbles mix with upstreaming water creating gurgling sound. This is the indicator that coffee is ready.

1. Fill the lower container with water so its level is lower than the safety valve. Don't put more water than that. It is very important that water level is below safety valve, because it provides release if pressure should get too high. If the safety valve is blocked by too much water and pressure gets too high your moka pot can actually explode.

It is recommended to use hot water, since it lessens the time that grounds are exposed to heat, which makes the brew less bitter. However, you can do some experimentation to find out if you prefer using hot or cold water.

2. Fill the filter funnel with the coffee grounds. Use bit coarser grind that you would for the regular espresso machine, because if the grounds are too fine they might block the holes in the filter and the water can't get through anymore. Also, do not tamp the coffee grounds, since if the coffee is pressed too tight it also may block the water flow. Tamping is also not necessary, because grounds will expand with the heat and create its own tamp. Instead lightly knock the filter downwards, which helps to distribute the grounds evenly.

3. Screw on the top chamber and place the moka pot on the stove. Use medium level heat, since too high temperature might create the steam too fast. Keep the pot on stove until you hear a gurgle. It means that the water in the lower tank has been exhausted. Take the pot off the heat. Your coffee is ready.

Be careful when handling the pot, because the metal handles and surfaces get very hot. It is recommended to use some sort of pot holder.