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Moka Pot Brew Guide

The Moka Pot was invented by Alfonso Bialetti in 1933. Because working people couldn’t afford expensive espresso machines and were reliant on coffee bars for espresso, the idea of an easy and accessible brewer started to become very popular

Apparently 90% of Italians have one of these at home. And although considered old school, it’s seen a resurgence in recent years – probably due to a mix of its retro styling and its ability to make an espresso-like cup at home without expensive equipment or even electricity. 

When the water boils, the steam pressure in the chamber pushes hot water up through the grounds to extract the coffee, creating a relatively small yield which is concentrated and rich. 

Key Facts

  • Coffee dose: 30g (6 cup Moka Pot)
  • Water: 300g
  • Fine grind size (but coarser than espresso - like fine sand)

What you'll need

  • Freshly ground coffee beans
  • Moka Pot
  • Scale
  • Hob
Fill the basket

Step 1Fill the basket

The easiest way to measure your coffee is to fill your basket with coffee beans and then grind them - It should measure out 28-30g of coffee. Grind quite fine, but not as fine as for your espresso machine, as the water needs to be able to flow through freely. Then level the grounds with your finger - but don’t compact.

Boil and prepare

Step 2Boil and prepare

Boil water in your kettle and pour it into the chamber - you can weigh the water (aim for 300g) or just fill it up to just below the safety valve. Pop the basket into the base, then screw the top chamber onto the bottom (use a towel as it’s likely to be hot).

Observe and Control

Step 3Observe and Control

Turn on the heat – starting with medium, leaving the lid open. Watch and wait, and as soon as you start to see coffee, turn down the heat to control the flow. You’re aiming for a smooth flow of coffee rather than puffing, shooting and spluttering, which will result in a burned brew. You may have to try this a couple of times to get it right.

Cool down and serve

Step 4Cool down and serve

As the bottom chamber starts to empty there will be a gurgling sound, which is totally normal and means your brewing is complete. Take your Moka Pot off the heat and serve right away. Or to stop the extraction and wait, immerse the bottom in a pot of cold water.