Stovetop Espresso (Moka)

Making great coffee at home is easier than you think. With a few (cheap) pieces of equipment and a little patience you too can be drinking coffeehouse quality drinks at home! This instructable will cover how to make stovetop "espresso," also known as Moka or Moka Pot coffee.

Step 1: Assemble the Equipment

The first thing you need to make moka coffee is a moka pot. These can be found online, or sometimes in stores. If you're going to be the only person drinking the coffee, I would suggest getting the 2-3 cup size. If serving more than one person, the 6 cup model works great.

The second thing you need to make moka coffee is a coffee grinder. If you're looking for a great, cheap grinder, I would suggest the Hario Slim. Around USD $25 it produces even grounds for a fraction the cost of a great electric model. Plus, you can bring it wherever you go (camping, the office, traveling, etc.) and not lose the ability to make great coffee

Lastly you'll need coffee beans to make moka coffee. I would suggest a darker roast whole bean coffee. I usually use Costco Costa Rica beans, and the results are good.

Step 2: Fill the Reservoir

Fill the bottom of the moka pot up to the safety valve with water. Use whatever water you normally drink (i.e. If you use a Britta use that water)

Step 3: Fill the Filter

Fill the cone filter with ground coffee. Make sure it is uniformly filled and about level with the top of the cone. Use the side of a spoon to help fill the filter and to gently pack it down. DO NOT pack the grounds like an espresso shot.

Step 4: Check Your Gasket

Most problems with a moka pot arise when the gasket area is not clean. If it's not clean the heated coffee will seep out around the screw and will result in bitter coffee and a giant mess.

Use a dish brush to clean around the edges of the gasket to remove any old coffee grounds. Then take your finger and wipe the rim of the cone filter. Screw the top of the moka pot onto the base until secure.

Step 5: Heat It Up

Place your moka pot on Medium Low heat. Open the top lid and wait.

The brewing process should take 5-10 minutes

Step 6: When to Stop

After a few minutes on the stove, dark coffee should start rolling down the central spout. When the upper reservoir is about 3/4 full, the new coffee coming out of the spout will turn more white and bubbly. There may also be a gurgling sound. This is when you turn off the heat and take the pot off the burner. You should also close the lid so you don't burn yourself from the splashing coffee.

Step 7: Enjoy the Results

Pour your coffee into a cup of your choice and enjoy!