HOW TO MAKE ESPRESSO IN A

Moka Pot

The moka pot—aka the Bialetti—is an old-school favorite that’s stood the test of time. Mention it, and someone’s bound to say, “My grandma had one of those!” And yep, Grandma knew what was up. It might not have the precision of a pour over, but the moka pot still whips up a bold, no-fuss cup of coffee that hits the spot every time.

Our approach is to make the most of the thoughtful design behind it. Here’s how we do it, step by step:

1. Start Fresh
Make sure your moka pot is clean and the coffee basket is completely dry. If you're pulling an old one out of the cupboard, give it a good wash and run a cycle with just water to clear out any buildup. While you're at it, start heating up some water or milk if you're planning to make an americano or latte.

 

2. Add Water
Pour filtered water into the bottom chamber of the moka pot, stopping just below the safety valve. Try to use the same amount of water each time—this helps keep your brew consistent and makes it easier to dial in the perfect cup.

 

3. Fill the Basket
Scoop your ground coffee into the basket until it's just below the rim—no need to pack it down. If you fill it all the way to the top, it might not fit properly once assembled. Use a fine grind, similar to espresso. The finer the grind, the bolder the brew. Want a lighter, smoother cup? Go a little coarser.

 

4. Assemble and Heat
Place the filled basket into the base of the moka pot, screw the top on securely, and set it on the stovetop. Turn on the heat and let the magic begin.

 

5. Watch the Brew
As the water heats up, pressure will push it up through the coffee grounds and out of the spout in the top chamber. You’ll see a steady stream of coffee start to pour out. Keep the lid open if you want to watch—it’s a satisfying sight! Toward the end, it’ll begin to sputter and bubble.

 

6. Control the Heat
Once the coffee starts flowing, lower the heat to avoid over-extraction. As soon as you hear sputtering, turn off the heat and remove the moka pot from the burner. Letting it sit too long can scorch the coffee.

 

7. Serve and Enjoy
Pour your espresso into a cup and enjoy it as-is—or customize it. Want something smoother? Add hot water for an americano, or mix in steamed milk for a latte or cappuccino.
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