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.) using the small filter basket or a double shot (2 oz.) 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 11⁄2 ounces have been extracted. What you’ve done is restrict the pour to include only the most flavorful 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 KPES100 manual Shot Volume, Extraction Rate
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KPES100 specifications

The KitchenAid KPES100 is a sophisticated kitchen appliance designed for those who appreciate the art of cooking and the efficiency of modern technology. This electric stand mixer combines style, durability, and functionality, making it a staple in any culinary space.

One of the standout features of the KPES100 is its powerful 1.3 horsepower motor, which delivers impressive mixing performance to handle a variety of tasks. This robust motor ensures consistent results whether you're kneading dough, whipping cream, or mixing batter. The mixer comes with multiple speed settings, ranging from gentle stirring to high-speed whipping, giving users flexibility for different recipes and ingredients.

Another key characteristic of the KitchenAid KPES100 is its 4.5-quart stainless steel mixing bowl. The bowl is not only durable but also features a comfortable handle for easy pouring and handling. The bowl’s polished surface is easy to clean, making it a practical choice for any busy kitchen. Additionally, the bowl is dishwasher safe, simplifying the cleanup process after culinary endeavors.

The KPES100 incorporates the Planetary Mixing Action technology, which ensures that the mixing attachment moves in one direction while the bowl rotates in the other. This allows for thorough ingredient incorporation, achieving better mixing results than traditional mixers. This technology is particularly beneficial when working with thick doughs or heavy batters, as it ensures that all ingredients are evenly mixed.

Included with the mixer are several attachments, including a dough hook, a wire whip, and a flat beater, allowing users to tackle a wide range of recipes right out of the box. The easy-to-use attachment system also means that additional accessories can be purchased separately, expanding the mixer’s versatility.

Design-wise, the KPES100 showcases KitchenAid’s signature aesthetic, featuring a sleek and stylish profile available in multiple colors to match any kitchen decor. Its robust construction ensures longevity, while the non-slip feet provide stability during operation.

In summary, the KitchenAid KPES100 stand mixer is a powerful and versatile appliance that combines innovative technology with timeless design. Its efficiency, durability, and range of attachments make it an ideal choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike, helping to elevate the cooking experience in any home.
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