Looking for how-to on making espresso/mochas

[CalicoSkies]

Ok, I ordered a Bialetti 6C stovetop espresso maker. Now, how do I make espresso? I know I have to buy high quality coffee in an espresso grind, correct? (I dont have a grinder) I really want to make mochas. What do I use for the chocolate? Real chocolates, cocoa powder, choco syrup? I also ordered a Nissan handpump frother, so I just need to know the ratios of espresso/chocolate something/frothed milk. And if anyone can advise me how many coffee scoops or tablespoons of coffee for a 6C espresso, I'd be grateful.

I make a great cup of coffee, so I am assuming I can learn to make a great espresso too. Looking forward to making homemade mochas and lattes.

[bradleyo]

Calling those stovetop coffee makers espresso makers is rather misleading. They are actually moka pots. To make true espresso, you really need a pump-type machine. Not that a moka pot won't make a nice cup of coffee. It just won't be a true espresso. It should, however, be adequate for making milk-based drinks.

As for recipes, try looking here for discussion of how to make a mocha.

For tips on using your moka pot, look here.

Have fun.

[CalicoSkies]

Brad, thanks for the correction on my use of "espresso." And thanks for the website link! Some great info there. I already have the stuff I need, just waiting on my pot to arrive. As far as everyday coffee, I use Dunkin Donuts. For this new pot, I should get an espresso grind of something, right? I was just going to go into a coffee shop and ask them for a recommendation.

[Pete]

You would be surprised at how many times I have heard that Dunkin Donuts have some of the best coffee around.

[CalicoSkies]

Pete, its the ONLY coffee I use at home, for several years now. Its excellent. I've tried so many dif coffees and this one is consistently the flavor I am looking for. Its on sale now, 2lb for $10 so give it a try! They have whole bean and ground. Makes great, smooth coffee.

[bradleyo]

Originally posted by CalicoSkies
Brad, thanks for the correction on my use of "espresso." And thanks for the website link! Some great info there. I already have the stuff I need, just waiting on my pot to arrive. As far as everyday coffee, I use Dunkin Donuts. For this new pot, I should get an espresso grind of something, right? I was just going to go into a coffee shop and ask them for a recommendation.

You need a fine grind for a moka pot. Your best bet is to get a grinder and do it yourself. Otherwise, have it ground for espresso and it should work.

I got the espresso bug a few years ago and it can be a very expensive hobby if you go full out--semi-professional machine and grinder, roaster, water filter, etc. But the quality of espresso you can make is truly amazing. By comparison, Starbucks espresso is sludge compared to what I can make at home on equipment costing a fraction of theirs. If you really get interested, the best place to start is coffeegeek.com.