Moka Pot: How to use a moka express in six easy steps

A Moka Pot is a simple, inexpensive and very tasty way to make espresso drinks. You wouldn't think so to look at these little Moka Espresso Pots, but the espresso they produce can be as good if not better than the coffee you just spent big bucks for in a coffee shop!

I bought one a few years ago, and have enjoyed using it to make excellent coffee without the expense or fuss of buying a full-size espresso machine. Of course, using top quality whole coffee beans that are well ground helps.

What is a Moka Pot?

Moka Pot is a stovetop espresso coffee maker that prepares several short cups of espresso style coffee with forces steam pressurized water through coffee grounds.

Somewhat resembling a traditional coffee percolator, it actually surprises first time moka drinkers with the strength, flavor and crema (light foam on top of the cup) that it can create. It's popularly used in Spain, Italy and Portugal.

It was invented in 1933 by Alfonso Bialetti and has now found its way into 90% of Italian Homes. In deference to the original design, the pots are usually made of aluminum but many people prefer to get one made of steel. Some think that aluminum has a detrimental effect on the flavor of the espresso while others think it enhances it. Mine is made of steel

How does a Moka Pot work?

Since it comes in sizes both large and small, you can usually find it in a size that holds about one large cup of water in the bottom. It's constructed of four metal parts that first need to be filled and assembled before placing atop your stove as you brew the espresso.

The bottom cup (or beaker) holds the water, then there is a metal coffee holder with a perforated metal cover (to allow coffee out) in the middle to hold the coffee. A metal funnel protrudes downwards from the filter into the bottom beaker. This allows steam to rise up and penetrate the coffee grounds.

The top provides the space that allows steam to condense into hot water and drip back down through the coffee. As the water in the bottom heats up, steam is forced up through the coffee in the filter. The coffee then rises into the top unit where it drips back down. Unlike a percolator, the prepared coffee is not directly exposed to any heat once the process is finished.

What kind of coffee does it produce?

Moka pots are also called stove top espresso makers. Many coffee lovers use them as an alternative to the conventional espresso machines because the quality and extraction ratio of the final coffee brew are so similar to that from an espresso machine.

The flavor of your espresso will depend on the bean variety, the roast, how finely ground the coffee is, and the temperature it's brewed at. Although it's called stovetop espresso, it can create the same crema as espresso machines.

How do you make coffee with a Moka pot?

Step 1: First, make sure your pot is cleaned properly, and all the parts are present: see the image.

Step 2: Fill the water in the bottom beaker to just below the pressure valve. Don't overfill the beaker with water!

Step 3: Place the filter basket into the bottom unit.

Step 4: You should add one heaped tablespoon of coffee for every three ounces of water. I usually just fill the coffee grounds into the coffee holder, and gently pat it down.

Step 5: Cover with the metal filter.  Then screw on the top part of the unit tightly.

Step 6: Place it on the stove or heat source, and wait until you hear it start to sputter. Your espresso will be done just a few minutes after you hear it start to brew.

Step 7: Once the sputtering stops, turn off the heat and serve immediately. Don't leave any in the pot, because the pot cools quickly.

Step 8: Add sugar or cream to taste. Use as espresso to make other coffee drinks, too.

Cleaning Your Moka Pot

Because the flavor of coffee depends on the oils that the heated water extracts from the beans and those oils cling to everything they touch, it's important to keep your Moka Pot clean. The buildup of oils from the grounds can make the espresso taste bitter and otherwise affect the taste of the coffee.

It's a good idea to run through the process every few weeks using vinegar instead of coffee to get rid of excess oils and mineral deposits. A clean pot keeps the coffee flavor pure and fresh.

Overall, the Moka Express Pot makes a strong, tasty cup of coffee. You may have to fiddle initially with the amount of coffee, but it's a lot less hassle cleaning this and using it than an Espresso machine. I do enjoy using mine a lot!

And finally...

Wherever you are, remember "Only Coffee Beans Make Great Coffee"! And enjoy that cup of coffee!

Return from moka pot to best coffee makers.

Return from moka pot to coffee beans.