TECHNIQUES

OF A BARISTA

Shot Volume

The brew group and boilers are heated. The fresh coffee has been ground, dosed into the portafilter, expertly leveled, and precisely tamped. Now comes the moment of truth: brewing!

For the best espresso, never extract more than a single shot (1 oz [30 ml]) using the small filter basket or a double shot (2 oz [60 ml]) using the large one. Brewing more will overextract the coffee and result in thin, bitter espresso.

As it pours, perfect espresso is a deep reddish brown with a thick texture like honey running off a spoon. It often forms what are called mouse-tails, or thin syrupy streams. As increasingly bitter and acidic compounds are extracted, the espresso pour will begin to lighten; in some cases, the pour will become almost white. Expert baristas will watch the pour carefully and quickly stop brewing if it starts to lighten.

Espresso Ristretto is espresso brewed with less than normal shot volume. Prepare the espresso machine to brew a double shot, but stop brewing when only 112 oz (45 ml) have been extracted. What you’ve done is restrict the pour to include only the most flavourful and least bitter coffee oils and essences.

Extraction Rate

Decades of experience have shown that the best espresso – whether a single or a double shot – takes about 20–25 seconds to brew.

If your espresso is brewing much faster or slower than 20–25 seconds, and your tamping technique is good, adjust the grind! Grind finer for a slower extraction rate, and coarser for a faster one. Keep the dose and tamp the same.

Coffee is sensitive to the ambient humidity and will absorb moisture readily. This will affect the extraction rate. In a humid environment, the extraction rate will slow down; in dry conditions, the extraction rate will speed up. You may find yourself adjusting the grind according to the season – or the day’s weather.

Some grinders do not allow the fine adjustments necessary to correct the extraction rate. The best solution is to invest in the KitchenAid® PRO LINE™ Series Coffee Mill. If this isn’t possible, experiment with the tamping pressure. Tamp with less force for a faster pour, and more force for a slower one.

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KitchenAid Coffeemaker, 4KPES100, 88 manual Shot Volume, Extraction Rate

88, Coffeemaker, 4KPES100 specifications

The KitchenAid 4KPES100,88 Coffeemaker is designed for coffee enthusiasts who seek an elegant and efficient brewing experience. This model stands out for its sleek, timeless design, making it a stylish addition to any modern kitchen.

One of the key features of the KitchenAid 4KPES100,88 is its precise brewing temperature control, which ensures optimal extraction of flavors from the coffee grounds. This precision results in a consistently rich and aromatic cup of coffee, appealing to both casual drinkers and connoisseurs.

The coffeemaker also boasts a unique, stainless-steel construction that not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also contributes to its durability. The double-wall carafe helps to keep coffee hot for longer periods, ensuring that every cup is as fresh as the first.

Another notable characteristic of the KitchenAid 4KPES100,88 is its programmable settings. Users can customize brew strength and adjust the brewing time to suit their preferences. This feature allows coffee lovers to experiment with different coffee beans and brewing techniques, achieving the perfect cup tailored to their taste.

The coffee maker incorporates a user-friendly digital interface, making operation straightforward and intuitive. With a large, backlit LCD display, users can easily monitor their brewing process and set timers, ensuring their coffee is ready at just the right moment.

Additionally, this model features a unique brew pause function, allowing users to pour a cup mid-brew without any spills. This convenience is highly appreciated during busy mornings when every second counts.

The KitchenAid 4KPES100,88 is compatible with various coffee grounds and pod systems, providing versatility for those who enjoy experimenting with different brewing methods. Its removable brew basket and carafe make cleaning effortless, further enhancing the user experience.

In summary, the KitchenAid 4KPES100,88 Coffeemaker combines sophisticated design, advanced brewing technology, and user-friendly features to create a remarkable coffee experience. Whether you are brewing for yourself or entertaining guests, this coffeemaker offers both style and performance, satisfying even the most discerning coffee lovers.