For those who are passionate about fine coffee and espresso, espresso machine is the best option. It is a type of a coffee maker that forces live steam under pressure through dark roasted coffee grounds. One of the most efficient and quicker way to prepare espresso coffee for instant energy, it uses steam to force the water through the grounds instead of a pump and only generate about 3 atmospheres or bars of pressure. These are found in a variety of general categories, each of which has unique characteristics, advantages and required skill levels. Therefore, selecting the type of espresso machine to best meet needs should be the first step before evaluating specific brands and models.
There are basically five types of espresso machines categorized as following:
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Semi Auto Espresso Machines: Most common type featuring an electric brewing pump that is manually turned on and off by the user. Relatively simple to operate and can create rich, authentic espresso, cappuccino and latte as good or better than any coffee house. It includes a steam wand to froth milk for preparing cappuccino and latte.
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Super Automatic Espresso Machines: Sophisticated machines, working on the touch of a button, make use of a built-in coffee grinders and brewing mechanisms that automatically grinds the coffee, fill and tamp the filter basket, brew a pre-determined volume of espresso then dump the used coffee grounds into an internal waste container. These can also froth milk for preparing cappuccino or latte using either a steam wand or automatic milk frothing system depending on the model.
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E.S.E. Pod Only Espresso Machine: Single shot paper espresso pod offers a convenient brewing system that is both easy to use and produces little or no mess. Simply insert a pod into the machine and press a button to begin brewing; there is no need for additional grinding equipment, measuring or any other preparation. These are perfect for home, office and food-service operations.
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Capsule Espresso Machines: The ultimate in convenience and ideally suited for offices, restaurants and other food service operations as well as in the home. Simply insert a capsule which is pre-filled with ground coffee into the machine and press a button to produce a rich, thick authentic espresso. All of the capsule espresso machines we carry are also equipped with a steam wand to froth milk for preparing cappuccino and latte drinks.
Some of the popular brands of espresso machines are La Pavoni, Rancilio, Gaggia and Saeco. |
