Espresso is a concentrated form of coffee that is served in small shots. It is made by forcing pressurized hot water through very finely ground coffee beans using an espresso machine. A single espresso shot is typically 1 ounce, while a double shot is 2 ounces. Espresso is thicker than regular coffee and has a layer of "crema" on top, which results from air bubbles mixing with the coffees oils. The crema adds to the rich flavor and lingering aftertaste of espresso. Espresso can be sipped in small cups, or used as the base for popular espresso drinks like the Americano, latte, cappuccino, and more.
To make espresso, finely ground coffee beans are packed into a portafilter and tightly pressed down until it is even and flat. The portafilter is then placed in the espresso machine, and hot water is forced through the coffee at very high pressure. A well-pulled espresso shot will last around 25 to 30 seconds and have a deep espresso flavor with a nice foamy crema.
