Moka pots were invented in 1930s Italy by an Italian engineer, Alfonso Bialetti in 1933. The name refers to the city of Mocha in Yemen, for many centuries, Mocha was a centre of coffee excellence. Every moka pot consists of a cylinder (bottom chamber), a filter funnel and a collector (top chamber) with a second removable filter which is held in place by a rubber gasket. The seal and removable filter should be changed periodically. Here we show you how to brew using a moka pot, it’s actually easier and quicker than you think!
What you will need
Quality coffee beans
Grinder
Moka pot
Kettle
Scales
A timer
Method
- Using your grinder, grind about 20-22 grams of coffee, about as finely as you would for a shot of espresso.
- Boil some water, then immediately fill the bottom half of your moka pot.
- Fill the pot’s filter basket with the ground coffee and give it a shake to settle the grounds evenly. Now place it into the bottom compartment.
- Screw on the moka pot’s spouted top. But be very careful because the bottom chamber will be hot, since you have just filled it with boiling water!
- Place the pot on a stove set to a medium heat.
- When the water in the bottom chamber approaches a boil, the pressure will push a stream of coffee slowly and methodically through the upper chamber. If it explodes upward, the water is too hot, if it burbles lethargically, then you need to turn up your flame.
- You’ll know when it’s done when you hear a hissing, bubbling sound. Remove from the stove and place it in the sink with a cool, damp cloth around it to stop extraction.
- When you’re ready, carefully pour the coffee into a cup and enjoy!
If you’re feeling adventurous, try making a lovely velvety homemade cappuccino or even some coffee and walnut pancakes with your freshly made coffee, we have just the right recipes for you to try, whatever mood you’re in.