How to Make a Stovetop Espresso
1. Remove the cup support base (upper part of the coffee maker) and, without forcing the column, rotate clockwise the heater (lower part of the coffee maker)
2. Fill the heater with cold water without exceeding the opening of the safety valve level.
3. Insert the funnel filter into the heater.
4. Fill the funnel filter with ground coffee for Moka, without pressing it down, taking care not to leave coffee powder on the rim of the coffee maker.
5. Assemble the cup support base on the heater, by rotating the heater counterclockwise, and tighten well, without pressing too much and avoiding to force the column.
6. Put the coffee maker on the heat source with the cups underneath the column on the cup support base. In case of flame, make sure that it does not go beyond the rim of the coffee maker. In case of induction/electric/ceramic glass plate, do not use the highest heat.
Use & Care
Handwash in warm water and dry thoroughly
- Loosely fill the funnel with your favourite ground coffee (we recommend a medium-fine grind. Medium-fine will feel gritty when rubbed between your fingers, not powdery. Note that an espresso grind purchased from a store for electric espresso machines is typically too fine and may block your Bialetti). Do NOT tamp coffee down.
- If you have used a fine, powdery espresso grind, get yourself a pipe cleaner, take out the ring and filter and give the upper spout a good clean from the underneath side.
Troubleshooting: If the water is coming through the joint, proceed with cleaning the column out first.
· Detergent is not recommended when washing the aluminium models as it can taint the aluminium and therefore the coffee.
A mild detergent can be used to clean the stainless steel models and a liquid chrome polish can be used to keep the stainless steel looking new.
· Periodically clean the inner sides of the percolator spout (column) in the top part of the pot, ensuring no build-up of coffee residues. This build-up can lead to reduced pressure and may affect the final taste profile of your coffee.
· Do not reassemble until all parts are completely dry to avoid oxidation
· Bialetti stovetop espresso makers must not be put in the dishwasher.
· It’s best to store all parts separately to allow air to circulate and dry parts before reassembling.
