Espresso vs. Regular Coffee: What Sets Them Apart
Espresso holds a special place in the world of coffee. It’s a staple in coffee shops and enjoyed by people globally.
While the differences between espresso and regular coffee are often misunderstood, they are actually quite distinct.
Regular coffee can be made using various methods like pour-over, French press, or drip brewing. Espresso, on the other hand, is brewed in a specific way to create a concentrated, bold shot packed with rich flavor.
What is Espresso?
Unlike traditional coffee, which is brewed by slowly pouring hot water over grounds for several minutes, espresso is made by rapidly forcing water through a small, tightly packed portion of finely ground coffee, usually in less than 30 seconds. The resulting espresso can be served on its own or combined with milk and foam to make drinks like cappuccinos or lattes.
Characteristics of an Espresso
- Brewed in small quantities (30ml for a single shot or 60ml for a double shot)
- Thick, dark texture
- Topped with a layer of crema
- Rich, full-bodied flavor
- Forms the base for many popular drinks, such as flat whites, mochas, lattes, and cappuccinos
How to Make an Espresso
To brew a shot of espresso, you can use an espresso machine or a Moka pot (though the latter won’t produce a true espresso).
Espresso machines use high pressure to force water through the compacted coffee grounds (held in a portafilter), extracting maximum flavor from the coffee.
A Moka pot works similarly but relies on heat from a stove to create the pressure needed. While it doesn’t extract as purely or produce as much crema, it’s a great budget-friendly alternative.
What Equipment Can I Use at Home?
There are many home espresso machines available, though they can be quite expensive. Alternatively, a Moka pot is a more affordable option that can still produce a flavorful espresso.
If you’re not using pre-ground coffee, you’ll also need a grinder to achieve the proper grind size for espresso. For a Moka pot, the grind size doesn’t need to be as fine as for an espresso machine.
What Kind of Beans Should You Use?
Espresso beans are typically a darker roast and may appear slightly oily compared to other beans. They are roasted specifically for espresso, providing a consistent body, rich flavor, and a creamy layer of crema. Most coffee roasters offer a dedicated espresso blend or clearly label which beans are best suited for brewing espresso.
So, there you have it—the difference between espresso and regular coffee.
Espresso is a delicious, concentrated drink that serves as the foundation for many popular beverages like the flat white and cappuccino.
Don’t be discouraged by the large café equipment—making espresso at home is easier than it seems. There are affordable ways to brew it, and the entire process, from grinding the beans to extracting the shot, can be an enjoyable experience.
