If you love a bold, thick cup of coffee, thank the Italians. The espresso machine was created by a clever Italian inventor at the beginning of the 20th century. The device originally used steam pressure produced by a piston lever to force hot water through finely ground coffee beans.
Espresso is treasured throughout the world by those who favor a strong, viscous coffee with a heavy body.
The drink was traditionally the favorite of European, although it has spread throughout the world, especially in the U.S. It has become very popular by Americans looking for a potent cup of coffee.
It has become so ubiquitous that coffee houses and restaurants through the U.S. now offer it. Some coffee retailers such as Starbucks add to the espresso to create new drinks. They use additional flavors and toppings. You may not be aware of it but espresso is the base for many coffee drinks such as cappuccinos and lattes.
Today's espresso machines work by forcing steamed water through finely ground coffee beans. It results in a thick, syrupy liquid we call espresso.
Espresso machines vary in size. Some are quite large. They usually make one serving of espresso at a time. Users flip a lever and a small amount of espresso, called a "shot," is dispensed. The espresso will have distinctive reddish foam on top, known as crema.
The process of using forced steamed water through finely ground coffee beans results in a drink that has many of the flavorful oils of the beans. Since the grind is fine, it makes for a thicker drink than those made from traditional coffee makers.
While espresso machines are usually more expensive than coffee makers, they also offer a coffee drinking experience you can't get without one. Diehard coffee lovers will tell you that the price is worth for the incredible drink.
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