The Four ‘M’s
Espresso coffee brewing is defined by the four ‘M’s: the Macinatura is the correct grinding of a coffee blend, Miscela is the coffee blend, Macchina is the espresso machine, and Mano is the skilled hand of the barista. Once each factor of the four M’s is precisely controlled, you will have prepared an espresso beverage that is the ultimate coffee experience.
Machine Operation – All Models
- Install the portafilter by inserting it into the group head and rotate the portafilter handle from left to right. The portafilter is inserted properly once it is firmly inside the group head and the portafilter handle is sitting at 90 degrees from the face of the machine.
2. You can now lift the brew lever to start the water flowing though the portafilter.
3. It is important to leave the portafilter installed in the group head when not in use. The portafilter must remain heated for a successful brew process. It will also prevent the head seal inside the group head from drying out prematurely.
4. Single (with one spout) and double (with two spouts) portafilter handles come ready assembled with single and double baskets Fitted.
5. You are now ready to start brewing coffee by removing the portafilter and placing ground coffee inside the filter basket. Press down on the coffee with the supplied tamper and install the portafilter in the group head. Lift the group lever upwards to release heated water and start the brewing process.
6. To stop the brewing process it is important that the brew lever is positioned down completely to where the water stops flowing AND where the pump’s noise can no longer be heard.
7. To heat milk dip the steam tip under the surface of the milk which is contained in a stainless milk jug. Release heat into the milk by turning the steam handle anti-clockwise, so the valve is fully open. Once at a good temperature for consumption turn steam wand off completely by turning tightly clockwise. Remove jug from under the steam wand.
8. In order to prevent heated milk from being sucked into the boiler it is recommended that you purge the steam wand after heating milk. Purge by releasing steam for a few seconds into the atmosphere.
9. To dispense hot water from the hot water tap turn the handle anti-clockwise and release the required amount of water into a cup or vessel. Turn the handle clockwise to stop the hot water from running. CAUTION THE WATER IS VERY HOT.
10. More details of brewing coffee and steaming milk are outlined in the Mano section of this Rocket Espresso handbook.
