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Five Methods:Espresso ShotsMaking LattesMaking CappuccinoOther Drinks& UsesCare

A commercial espresso machine uses steam to create a variety of coffee, including espresso shots, lattes, cappuccinos, and many others. Prevalent in cafes and restaurants, commercial espresso machines cost several thousands of dollars and require expertise for proper use. This guide will teach you the basics of how to use a commercial espresso machine and will provide tips for improving the quality of your coffee drinks.

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Method 1 of 5: Espresso Shots

  1. Use a Commercial Espresso Machine Step 1.jpg
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    Remove the portafilter from the group head.
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  2. Use a Commercial Espresso Machine Step 2.jpg
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    Drop espresso grounds into the portafilter, tamping twice to ensure that the grounds are packed.
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    Replace the portafilter in the group head, turning until tight.
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    Turn on the hot water knob little,for a few seconds so that the water just warms up.
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    Turn on the hot water knob completely.
  6. Use a Commercial Espresso Machine Step 6.jpg
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    Wait for about 30 to 35 seconds until the first shot has been poured or until the espresso begins to look pale and inconsistent. Turn off the water supply.

Method 2 of 5: Making Lattes

  1. Use a Commercial Espresso Machine Step 7.jpg
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    Prepare a shot of espresso by repeating Steps 2 through 4, above.
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    Pour milk into a pitcher until its about half full.
  3. Use a Commercial Espresso Machine Step 9.jpg
    3
    Cup the pitcher from below and place the steam wand inside of it so that the steam wand is sitting at about a 45 degree angle to the surface of the milk with the end of the wand just off center.
  4. Use a Commercial Espresso Machine Step 10.jpg
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    Turn on the steam to the wand. You should have enough steam so that the milk begins to circulate around the pitcher, but not enough that the milk makes a hissing sound.
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    Steam the milk so that it circulates around the pitcher in a regular whirlpool pattern, gradually climbing one side of the pitcher.
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    Begin making the shot of espresso, following Steps 5 through 7, above.
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    Stop steaming when the milk has the approximate consistency of house paint.
  8. Use a Commercial Espresso Machine Step 14.jpg
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    Tap the pitcher so that the milk settles. Pour milk over the espresso to produce a latte.

Method 3 of 5: Making Cappuccino

  1. Use a Commercial Espresso Machine Step 15.jpg
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    Repeat Steps 2 through 6 for making lattes.
  2. Use a Commercial Espresso Machine Step 16.jpg
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    Continue steaming until the milk has a solid, foamy texture.
  3. Use a Commercial Espresso Machine Step 17.jpg
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    Begin pouring the espresso shot, following Steps 5 through 7 from the first section.
  4. Use a Commercial Espresso Machine Step 18.jpg
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    Tap the pitcher continually on a counter as the shot pours. Air should rise to the top of the foam.
  5. Use a Commercial Espresso Machine Step 19.jpg
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    Stop tapping when the pitcher makes a hollow sound when tapped with a finger from below.
  6. Use a Commercial Espresso Machine Step 20.jpg
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    Pour the foamed milk over the espresso shot to make a cappuccino.

Method 4 of 5: Other Drinks& Uses

  1. Use a Commercial Espresso Machine Step 21.jpg
    1
    To make an americano, follow the steps for making an espresso shot, then pour the espresso into a glass of hot water.
  2. Use a Commercial Espresso Machine Step 22.jpg
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    To steam hot chocolate, chai lattes, cider, or other liquids, follow Steps 2 through 6 for making a latte and continue until the liquid is as hot and foamy as desired.

Method 5 of 5: Care

  1. Use a Commercial Espresso Machine Step 23.jpg
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    Wipe down steam hands vigorously after use.
  2. Use a Commercial Espresso Machine Step 24.jpg
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    Remove all grounds from portafilters and rinse them immediately after use.
  3. Use a Commercial Espresso Machine Step 25.jpg
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    Run hot water from the group heads and steam from the steam wands for a few seconds after use.
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Tips

  • Experiment with several espresso shots before determining your exact method. You should have a nice head of cream on the top of each shot, and it should take about 30 to 35 seconds to pour. Adjust your grinder if results are still not satisfactory.

Warnings

  • Always be extremely cautious of burns when using an espresso machine. Keep hands away from steam wands and group heads, especially when cleaning.

Things You'll Need

  • Commercial espresso machine
  • Espresso grounds
  • Milk

Related wikiHows

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Sources and Citations

Article Info

Categories: Coffee Makers and Espresso Machines

In other languages:

Español: Cómo usar una máquina de expresso comercial, Italiano: Come Usare una Macchina per Caffè Espresso, Русский: пользоваться профессиональной эспрессо машиной, Português: Como Usar Uma Máquina de Café Expresso Comercial

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