What dose should I use for my espresso machine?
When preparing the perfect espresso, the correct dose of coffee is an essential factor, and a good starting point is to check the specifications of the filter basket in your espresso machine.
If you notice that your espresso is brewing inconsistently or that you are having difficulty finding the right balance between flavor and texture, adjusting the dose may be the solution. In most cases, the filter basket will have an indication of the recommended amount. Respect this value, with a tolerance of +/- 1 gram.
How do you identify the right dose?
- Too little dosage : After extraction, the surface of the coffee puck will be wavy. This is a clear sign that you need to increase the amount of coffee.
- Too high a dose : Before extraction, the coffee puck may come into contact with the dispersion screen. You can check this by inserting and removing the portafilter without starting the extraction. If you notice a print in the puck or coffee grounds on the dispersion screen, the dose is too high.
The basic recipe for a successful espresso
If you're just starting out, follow this simple recipe to achieve consistent results:
- Brewing ratio : 2 g of water for every 1 g of coffee
- Time : 25-30 seconds
- Pressure : 9 bars
- Temperature : 94°C
How do you adjust for the perfect taste?
Start tasting the espresso as soon as the extraction time is between 25 and 30 seconds.
- If the drink is harsh, dry, or bitter , the grind may be too fine.
- If the espresso is acidic, astringent, or has a mineral taste , the grind may be too coarse.
The main recommendation is to adjust the grind size until the process becomes comfortable and you get consistent results. As you gain experience, you will be able to adjust other parameters to achieve the perfect taste.