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Espresso is recognised as a coffee with unique and unparalleled characteristics; it is the quintessential Italian coffee, the most appreciated and consumed beverage in the world.
Its essential characteristics come from the pressure extraction system of the coffee machine:
1. a compact crema;
2. a full body;
3. an intense aroma.
The crema is the alchemy between four fundamental elements: water, temperature, pressure, and coffee.
With the espresso system, 7 grams of finely ground coffee are extracted by water pushed at a pressure of 9 bars for 25-30 seconds. This process first produces a solution of caffeine, acids, proteins, sugars, and other substances, and secondly, a suspension of microscopic coffee particles and gas microbubbles.
This emulsion of tiny oil droplets and water is what forms the crema: a fine, dense texture with a discreet thickness and a hazelnut colour, covering the surface of the espresso in the cup.
WHAT ARE ITS CHARACTERISTICS?
This natural golden emulsion, which enhances the surface of a well-made espresso, is an almost mystical obsession for Italian espresso lovers. While its practical role is to help trap the aromas before the coffee is drunk, it also carries many cultural connotations.
A darker crema may indicate a blend with a high percentage of Robusta coffee. However, beware: a crema that is too dark suggests an over-extracted espresso. Conversely, a golden crema may reveal a fine Arabica blend, but if it is too light, it could mean the espresso is under-extracted.
A crema with few, large bubbles indicates that the coffee has been prepared too quickly and is likely to have a thin body. On the other hand, a thick, grainy crema suggests the coffee was extracted too slowly and may taste burnt.
HOW TO CREATE THE PERFECT CREMA?
Make sure that:
1. the grind is fine;
2. you use enough coffee;
3. the coffee is evenly distributed in the portafilter;
4. the coffee is firmly tamped with a twisting motion of the tamper to level the surface.
PRECISION GRINDING
In addition to a good espresso machine and proper technique, attention must be paid to the coffee grind. It should be fine but also consistent.
COFFEE MUST ALWAYS BE FRESH
Ensure that the coffee beans are fresh. Coffee beans should be stored in a sealed container in a cool, dry place and ground just before brewing the espresso.
HOW MUCH COFFEE TO USE?
Often, the only way to obtain a good crema is to use slightly more coffee than the recommended amount per serving.
WHICH CUP TO USE?
The coffee should be dispensed into a properly sized, preheated espresso cup. A warm, narrow cup will help build and retain the crema.
