How to make Stove Top Coffee

When to use:
The Stove Top, or Moka Pot, pushes hot water through the coffee grounds under steam pressure - very similar to espresso.  It is an iconic coffee device and can be found in most kitchens in the world.  First patented in 1933, the Moka Pot has been produced by hundreds of companies, but all in keeping with the original design and functionality. We recommend the Bialetti Moka Pots for their build quality and style.

For best results it needs a robust bean with a darker than average roast due to its aggressive and hot brewing style. 

How much coffee:
24g for a 4-cup Moka Pot

Grind size:
3mm, quite fine but not powder.  Grind midway between Filter and Espresso

How long to brew:
3 to 4 minutes

How to brew:

1. Separate the three parts of the Moka Pot; the base, the basket and the top which eventually holds the brewed coffee.
2. Fill the base with cold water to the middle of the protruding valve.
3. Grind the recommended amount of coffee.
4. Pour the coffee into the basket, gently tapping it onto the counter to settle it into the basket. Level the top with your finger, ensuring all the coffee remains inside
5. Drop the basket into the base and screw the top on tightly.
6. Place the Moka Pot onto the stove. If you are using gas, aim for a medium/low heat, on an electric you'll want to turn it up to full to speed up the brewing process.
7. Keep the lip of the Moka Pot open so you can watch the process, after some time, you'll see a rich brown coffee start to pour into the top. As soon as this starts to turn honey colour, take the Moka Pot off the heat and close the lid.
8. At this point, cool the base of the Moka Pot as fast as possible to avoid cooking the coffee above. Place it in you sink and pouring water over it, ensuring you don't spill or dilute the coffee. Then remove your coffee from the chamber as quickly as possible.
9. You should now have a small amount of dark coffee similar in taste to espresso. You can drink it neat like the Italians, or add water for an Americano or warm milk for a latte style coffee.

Why we like it:
The Moka pot or Bialetti comes close to espresso type coffee without the need for expensive equipment.