Thermoblock: The common feature of the single-circuit, dual-circuit and boiler systems is that all variants have a boiler in them. Thermoblock portafilter machines are different, as they have a heating element that is installed next to the water tube. The advantage here is a short heating time, so a perfect espresso can be made within a few seconds after turning on the espresso machine. Popular models here are the Sage espresso machines, such as the Sage Barista Pro or the Ascaso Steel Duo PID.
A portafilter machine is more service-friendly than a fully automatic machine. It is more authentic and less susceptible to maintenance. However, only one or two espressos can be produced per brewing process.
HOW TO MAKE THE PERFECT ESPRESSO WITH AN ESPRESSO MACHINE
In addition to the espresso machine itself, a sufficient heating time for the boiler, the portafilter and the pipes is decisive for the success of a perfect espresso with crema. Before the first espresso, you should allow at least 10-30 minutes for the boiler to heat up. This depends on the type of system of the machine. To preheat the cups to a comfortable temperature, we recommend using the integrated heating plate on top of the portafilter. When it comes to the preparation of an espresso, you now need the portafilter, the desired coffee beans and a coffee grinder. Coffee connoisseurs:inside grind their espresso beans fresh with a tuned grind before each brewing process. Here, it is up to you whether you prefer an electric espresso grinder or a manual hand grinder. Put the coffee powder with the tuned amount into the portafilter, hang the filled portafilter into the brewing group and draw an espresso. This is how to make a perfect espresso in the espresso machine!
We sometimes recommend experimenting with the quantities, throughput time and temperature to create your very own dream espresso. For this, feel free to take a look at the tutorial for the perfect espresso preparation with a portafilter machine.
THE CLEANING OF THE PORTAFILTER IS THE KEY TO TASTE
Just as crucial as choosing the best coffee grinder or tastiest coffee beans, is the cleaning of the espresso machine, for the taste of your coffee. For this, it is important to clean the espresso machine in short after each use. This can be done quickly, by flushing the brew group, i.e. by a short espresso brew with pure water, the coarse residues in the brew group are removed. Empty the portafilter over a knock-off box and remove the remaining coffee grounds with a microfiber cloth. After making milk foam, the milk nozzle should also be wiped with a damp microfiber cloth to remove any burnt milk residue. This is also followed by a brief blowing through of the milk nozzle, by a short draw of steam.
In the long term, you should clean your espresso machine thoroughly, for this you should also decalcify the machine depending on the manufacturer's recommendations. Whether it's an entry-level model or a high-quality ECM portafilter machine, thorough cleaning has an insane effect on the taste of your delicious coffee, in addition to the hygienic benefits.