Most of us are avid coffee drinkers; am I right?

I thought so. I will explain how to make a simple milk and coffee drink, also called a latte. For this process, I will be using an espresso machine, a grinder, coffee beans and last but not least, milk.

Step 1: Turn on the Machine

The very first thing that needs to be done is turning on the espresso machine.

The “on” switch is on the right-hand side of the machine, located towards the back, on the lower half. Make sure to switch on the steamer as well, for later. For pulling an espresso, usually wait until it’s up to 200° F. Once it heats up, it’s ready to go!

Step 2: Grind the Beans

Step number two is grinding the beans.

Use beans made especially for espresso pulling, usually it says so on the package. The grinder has settings depending on how fine the grounds are wanted, recommended is a fineness that resembles salt. Take the portafilter and set it into the grinder machine prongs to make sure it stays in place. Grind about 18 grams of coffee, using a scale to weigh.

Step 3: Tamp

Alright, on to step number three! This is an important one.

Once the portafilter is taken out of the grinder put it on a scale; the grounds should weigh about 18 grams. Before making the shot, pack it in. In coffee terms that means to tamp. To do this, just press down into the portafilter with a coffee tamper with about 30lbs of force for a few seconds. This process ensures uniformity of extraction by evening out and packing the grounds to ensure equal, consistent water contact when it is forced through the portafilter.

Step 4: Pull the Shot

Now it’s time to pull a lovely shot of espresso! One step closer to enjoying a delicious latte. For this step, just set it into the espresso machine and lock it in place. The handle should be turned slightly to the left, pushed up into the machine then turn it the right, centering it, to secure it. Next, pull the lever up and wait as the water gets pushed through the portafilter. This will take about 20-30 seconds for a single shot. Once the shot is done, pull the lever back down to the starting position. Take the shot of espresso and pour it into any cup.

Step 5: Froth/Steam the Milk

Time to turn this into a latte!

Do not just pour the milk in; it needs to be steamed. Pour the milk into a frothing pitcher and then submerge the froth assistor deep into milk. Turn the steamer on and let it do its thing. Get a thermometer and check the temperature of the milk, which should be around 140° F. Be careful not to burn the milk, it will ruin the shot.