Barista espresso machines are gaining popularity as more and more people decide to use them at home. There is nothing like being able to brew your own wonderful latte at home. In fact, it will also save you a lot of money.
To create your own latte or other espresso drink at home, you need to learn how to pull a nice shot and steam milk to a good froth. Thankfully, barista espresso machines are very easy to use. You need to make sure to find a machine that is high quality, compact, and sturdy.
Before you use a barista espresso machine, you need to fill the water reservoir. To check if there is water in the reservoir, you can just pull it out partially and put some ping pong balls in it to see if they float. You then have to make sure that the water intake tube is placed inside the tank. After that, turn on the espresso machine and wait about 40 seconds for it to warm up.
Techniques to Help You Make a Good Latte
You need to know how to steam milk properly and get it at the right frothy texture. In order to do so, your best bet is to invest in a metal pitcher and thermometer. You should never reheat milk and when you fill the pitcher, make sure not to fill it to the rim because it will overflow. Place the steaming wand just below the milk line and turn the knob. The best kind of froth for lattes has many tiny bubbles. The first few seconds are important because the most froth can be created then.
When the milk reaches around 80F on the thermometer, put the steaming wand deep down in the pitcher and heat the milk until it reaches 140F-160F. Avoid going any higher than 160F because then it will be scolding hot. Make sure to clean the milk residue off the wand of your barista espresso coffee machine when you are done.
Make sure to press the button on your barista espresso machine to shower the portafilter with water because this will make a huge difference in the quality of your espresso shot. For a good tasting shot of espresso, the coffee should be freshly roasted and freshly ground. You need to tamp the coffee evenly and tightly in the basket.
This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to what you can do with a barista espresso machine. Many drink creations can be made with an espresso machine but you need to get proper milk steaming and shot pulling down pat first and then work from there.