When it comes to crafting the perfect lever espresso shot, the grind size plays a pivotal role in determining the balance between bitterness and body. Achieving the right grind size on your lever espresso machine is essential for extracting the optimal flavor profile from your coffee beans. This guide will walk you through the key parameters, step-by-step instructions, and expert tips to help you master the art of lever espresso brewing.
Overview & Background
The lever espresso machine, a classic in the espresso world, relies on manual operation to achieve precise control over pressure and grind size. Unlike pump-driven machines, lever espresso machines offer a tactile experience, allowing baristas to manipulate the grind size to suit their specific beans and desired taste. The grind size directly affects the flow rate of the espresso, which in turn impacts the extraction time and the overall flavor.
Key Brewing Parameters / Specs
- Grind Size: Coarse to medium-coarse
- Dose of Coffee: 15-18 grams
- Water Temperature: 92°C - 96°C
- Extraction Time: 25-30 seconds
- Pressure: 9-10 bar
Step-by-Step Guide
- Select the Right Grind Size: Start with a medium-coarse grind. This is slightly coarser than what you would use for a traditional espresso machine. Adjust as needed based on your beans and preferences.
- Dose Your Coffee: Measure out 15-18 grams of coffee beans. This is a good starting point, but feel free to adjust based on your taste.
- Grind Your Coffee: Grind your beans immediately before brewing. Use a burr grinder to maintain consistent grind size. The grind should be slightly coarser than what you would use for a traditional espresso.
- Tamp Your Coffee: Tamp the grounds evenly and firmly to ensure a consistent density. This is crucial for even extraction.
- Set Your Lever Espresso Machine: Adjust the pressure lever to between 9-10 bar. This will give you a rich and full-bodied espresso.
- Pull Your Shot: Start the lever and pull the shot for 25-30 seconds. The lever should be pulled at a steady pace to maintain consistent pressure.
Pro Tips & Common Mistakes
- Adjust Grind Size: Don't be afraid to experiment with the grind size. A slightly coarser grind can help prevent over-extraction and bitterness.
- Consistent Tamping: Tamping too lightly can lead to a thin shot, while tamping too heavily can result in a bitter and over-extracted espresso.
- Monitor Water Temperature: Keep your water temperature consistent at 92°C - 96°C. This will ensure a balanced extraction.
- Avoid Over-Pulling: Pulling the shot for too long can lead to over-extraction, resulting in a bitter and watery espresso.
Gear worth owning
Recommended gear for this recipe.
Two practical upgrades that make this method easier to repeat. We may earn a commission if you buy through these links.
Affiliate disclosure: prices and availability change. BrewVibe Lab is reader-supported and independently edited.