A manual coffee machine, also known as a lever espresso machine, relies on manual pressure and control to brew espresso. It usually consists of a lever or piston that the user operates to force hot water through the coffee grounds. These machines offer enthusiasts more control over the brewing process, allowing for adjustments to extraction time and pressure to achieve a customised espresso shot. They are often favored by coffee aficionados for their hands-on approach and the ability to fine-tune the brewing parameters for optimal espresso quality.
Yes, you can use pre-ground coffee with a manual coffee machine. Manual machines, also known as lever machines, offer flexibility in the type of coffee grounds they can accommodate. Using pre-ground coffee is a convenient option, especially for users who may not have access to a coffee grinder.
Key features in a manual coffee machine include:
Lever or piston operation for manual pressure control.
Portafilter for holding and brewing ground coffee.
Boiler or heating element for producing hot water.
Steam wand for frothing milk for espresso-based drinks.
Pressure gauge for monitoring extraction pressure.
Temperature control for adjusting water temperature.
Water reservoir for holding water for brewing.
Drip tray for collecting excess water and spills.
With a manual coffee machine, you can make:
Espresso shots
Cappuccinos
Lattes
Macchiatos
Americanos
To descale a manual coffee machine:
Prepare a descaling solution according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Empty the water reservoir and fill it with the descaling solution.
Run the descaling solution through the machine by brewing and discarding several cycles of hot water.
Allow the descaling solution to sit in the machine for a period of time as recommended.
Rinse the water reservoir thoroughly and fill it with clean water.
Run several cycles of clean water through the machine to flush out any remaining descaling solution.
Wipe down the exterior of the machine and any removable parts with a damp cloth.
Your manual coffee machine is now descaled and ready to use.
