Technique
Lastly, the manual technique of the person who makes the coffee.
As a non-professional, you will have to learn the “secrets”
of the coffee-making ritual: the right amount of tamping down
(photo), the right quantity of coffee (photo). It is not hard
to learn, all you have to do is follow the steps indicated below:
How to make a perfect espresso Let the machine heat up for about
6 minutes; leave the filter holder inserted to make sure your
coffee will be piping hot. Use the measuring spoon supplied to
measure the coffee needed for 1 or 2 cups (one spoonful or two
spoonfuls, respectively). Spoon the coffee into the filter and
pack it down. The right quantity of coffee and the right pressure
are essential for a good espresso:
too much coffee pressed down too hard makes a very bitter espresso.
The coffee will drip very slowly into the cup.
not enough coffee, and not packed down enough, produces a weak
coffee that streams too quickly into the cup.
Now reinsert the coffee-filled filter
holder into the machine and immediately press the start button.
If you wait, the heat of the machine could affect the coffee’s
quality.
A traditional espresso takes about 20 seconds, but you can leave
it longer if you want more coffee in your cup.
Now enjoy the pleasure of a genuine
espresso by Gaggia!
How to make a perfect cappuccino Let the machine heat up for about
10 minutes and make an espresso in
a large cup. Turn on the steam button and wait
until its ready, then turn the knob
to let a little steam escape into a container.
Now immerse the steam wand into a half-filled milk jug and turn
the knob completely. When the milk is frothy, place your hand
on the outside of the jug to feel if the milk is as hot as you
want it. Pour the milk onto the espresso using
slight movements of the wrist to ensure both the milk and the
froth go into the cup.
Now savour this fantastic mixture
of coffee and frothy milk, just like the cappuccinos made by
a barista!
Manual technique is not a problem for those of you who have
chosen an automatic coffee maker because it automatically grinds
the right quantity of beans, measures the coffee and delivers
your coffee straight into your cup. If you have an automatic
machine, all you have to do is put the beans in the grinder,
fill the water tank, empty the used grounds from the grounds
drawer and…press a button!
The machine does everything for you!
The fifth step
The fifth step is just as importance as the other four. Remember
to clean regularly your coffee machine, especially the filter,
filter holder and water tank.
Regular cleaning is essential to make sure your espresso always
tastes wonderful and to avoid malfunctions.
You should also descale the brewhead regularly (about once every
two months). See the instructions booklet.
