How to Pull a Perfect Espresso Shot

Your favorite barista sure makes it look easy: Throw some coffee into a portafilter, pack it down with a tamper, lock it in the brew group and turn it on. Voila! A gorgeous, rich and delicious shot with a heady crema perfect for sipping. In fact, it looks so easy, you should be able to do it, right? Cut to your house the morning after your new machine arrives, and you're frazzled and frustrated by the bitter and watery shots coming out of your precious new contraption. Ugh! Well, maybe you just can't get good espresso at home -- maybe that's what the $4/mug price tag is for, eh? No way! Anyone can pull a perfect shot -- every time -- provided they follow a few simple guidelines around preparing and extracting their espresso. In this basic guide, we discuss the four main techniques in pulling espresso: dose, grind, tamp and pour. Take a moment to improve your skill and you'll be making professional tasting espresso in no time!