The moka pot, also known as an espresso maker, mocha pot, caffettiera, or simply Bialetti, is a classic coffee-making tool. This typically octagonal pot has become an indispensable part of many households.

The history of the mocha pot

The origins of the moka pot date back to 1933, when Italian inventor Alfonso Bialetti developed the first model. Inspired by washing machines that forced hot water through the laundry under pressure, Bialetti designed an octagonal aluminum pot that worked on the same principle. This pot, known as the "Moka Express," was named after the Yemeni port city of Mocha, a historic center of the coffee trade. Large-scale production began after World War II, and the moka pot quickly found its way into Italian households and soon beyond.

How to prepare with the mocha pot

Preparing coffee with a moka pot is a ritual in itself and allows you to brew an intense coffee:

1. Prepare the water: Use fresh, filtered water and heat it to approximately 90–95°C. Preheating the water reduces the time the pot spends on the heat source and prevents the coffee from taking on a burnt taste.
2. Prepare the pot: Unscrew the moka pot and remove the strainer funnel. Now fill the lower part of the pot with preheated water up to just below the safety valve.
3. Grinding coffee: It's best to grind your coffee beans fresh to a medium-fine grind, similar to fine sand. A grind that's too fine can restrict water flow, while a grind that's too coarse will result in watery coffee.
4. Add the coffee: Place the filter funnel on the water-filled base and fill it with the ground coffee. Smooth the coffee powder without pressing it down to ensure even extraction.
5. Assemble the jug: Screw the top of the jug tightly onto the base. Make sure the thread is clean to ensure a secure closure.
6. Heating: Now place your moka pot over a moderate heat source. Too much heat can burn the coffee, while too little heat will slow the extraction.
7. Observe the brewing process: After a short time, the coffee will begin to flow into the upper part of the pot. As soon as you hear a hissing sound and the flow subsides, remove the pot from the heat source.
8. Sip & enjoy!

Adjust the grind, coffee quantity and heat to your personal taste and try out your options.

Tips for your mocha coffee:

• Coffee beans: Use high-quality, freshly roasted beans; we recommend our espresso roasts. Try Milky Way or Dreamteam Espresso .
• Cleaning: Rinse the moka pot thoroughly with warm water after each use and avoid using detergents, as these can leave residues and affect the taste.

The Mokka Pot is characterized by its ease of use and, let's be honest, its Italian charm. So have fun sipping and trying it out!