If you are talking real espresso, you are talking apex delight, earthy flavor extravaganza, perfect moment goodness. In order to have that moment, you need a real espresso machine. Many people have run the gamut of at-home ideas to find suitable espresso machines only to hang their heads in defeat. And it is at least possible that they gave up just a moment too soon. It might be that they could have salvaged at least one of their attempts by simply purchasing the right espresso machine accessories. If you are about to give up on your most recent espresso attempt, wait, and try one more solution. You will be happy you did.
If the following accessories do not salvage your equipment, you can walk away without shame, knowing that you have done all you could. First, examine your machine for build-up: soot and mineral. Most machines start to fail because their owner does not know how to properly clean them or does not do so often enough. Seek out some more in depth instructions and set a plan for how you should clean your machine, set a schedule and follow it. A clean machine is a well functioning machine.
Secondly, and you will have most likely seen an improvement in your espresso machine’s quality—like new again—get an appropriate steaming pitcher. Genuine, stainless steel steaming pitchers are the only way to go for steaming your milk. Even copper products tend to alter the simple flavors of your latte beverages. If you are making drinks for a family, or hosting parties, you will want a large pitcher, maybe even a quart size. Otherwise a twenty-four ouncer will do the trick.
The next few accessories will not improve the production or flavor of your espresso machine and its product but they are nice to have when you are making a cappuccino. Pick up a knockbox. It is a great tool for dislodging that puck of grounds from the portafiller. Without a good knock box you risk damaging your port filler by whacking the handle on the trashcan lip or denting it on the side of your sink basin.
Lastly, pick up a high-quality tamper. Some people ask what the big deal is with a tamper but once you have mastered the correct way to tamp and wield a quality tamper you will never ask again. The way your tamper affects your grounds is hard to explain. A tightly packed load of grounds will be too light and flavorless. If it is too loose, it will be bitter and lack crema. A great tamper will aid you in getting the perfect pack.
