DIY Espresso

Posted by Carolyn

on March 16, 2009

I got a Breville Café Modena Espresso Machine for Valentine’s Day this year and have since been having so much fun making my own coffee creations. I mean, I drink some weird stuff sometimes that can’t be ordered from the coffee shop so this trusty machine has gotten a lot of good use when I just have to have an almond milk latte or Godiva liqueur americano at 3pm (don’t ask I was experimenting). Originally, I wasn’t so keen with the $200 price tag but have realized that a) it’s a lot cheaper than comparable machines and b) a $5 bag of ground coffee bean from Starbucks lasts a looong time (keep in the freezer).

I’ve been a big fan of Breville machines after I purchased a juicer to do at home cleanses last year. The brand has slightly more expensive products than some other common household names but I’ve found them to be high performing, long lasting and visually appealing. The same goes for the espresso machine. Although it’s easy to use for someone with no experience, it does take a few times to get the hang of it. I lacked sequential coordination the first few times: made a saucerful of espresso because I forgot I was heating the cup on the warming plate, used day old water because I forgot to change out the tank, etc. You might mess up the first few times but after a bit of practice, its quite easy to use.

The machine might be basic but it makes a good cup of coffee. The system heats the water to the ideal temperature for espresso extraction and maintains 15 bars of pressure to maximize crema and flavor. The steam wand provides good froth and I love playing with it to heat my (almond) milk. The machine also comes with espresso cup and saucer set (perfect to measure out a shot since otherwise I would have no idea) and stainless steel frothing pitcher. It’s not too big and sites discreetly against my wall. The only complaint I have is due to its compact design, frothing the milk can be a little difficult as there’s only a small range of angles you can hold the pitcher. But trading off comfort for space is something I’m completely willing to in my New York apartment.

The Cafe Moderna is a great machine for the beginner that wants a genuine barista experience is tired of long lines and daily purchases at their local Starbucks. I’m not nearly as good as my favorite barista, but my Breville sure makes practicing fun.

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