"Coffee, coffee, coffee, it’s so frothy, it’s a mum’s lifeline…" Can you tell I watched Mamma Mia at the weekend??
I got my Nespresso machine a few years ago now and intended to master making a coffee at home that was so delicious it would put Starbucks to shame. Fast forward to 2021 and it’s a case of filling up a cup and throwing in a dash of milk. So, I’ve decided to go back to the drawing board and look into ways to make my Americano great again.
(Disclaimer – my tips are Nespresso related but even if you have a different machine, you still might find them relevant).
Use Two Pods
I asked around to find out my friends’ tips and I have one you’re going to thank me for. If you’re wondering why your coffee tastes weaker than the one you get from a barista, there’s a really obvious reason that I wasn’t aware of. It’s simply because they’re using more coffee. So, what’s the answer? Use two pods!
I’ve recently tried using one pod for each Lungo shot and would definitely give it a thumbs up. Although it seems like you’re spending more money, you’re less likely to be craving another one the minute you finish your first.
Use A Milk Frother
After digging around in the back of our cupboards I managed to find my Aeroccino frother! If you’re the same as me and are scratching your head about how to use it then here’s a quick recap. Simply pour your favourite milk (semi-skimmed froths best) up to the bottom indicator line, press the button, watch out for the red light and a few seconds later you’ll have a fancy foam to tip onto the top of your coffee.
In addition, if you’re craving an iced cappuccino, then pour some ice-cold milk on top of your shots of coffee, put your remaining milk into the frother, hold the button down until you see a blue light and await your cool foam. Bellissimo!
Use Filtered Water
When you’re a busy parent, "time" is something you’re definitely not rich in. However, if you want your coffee to be better tasting, take the time to filter your water before putting it in the machine.
We have a Brita filter jug that I need to get out more as it definitely makes a difference. When I do make the effort, the coffee tastes much purer and actually, this works for tea too. By using filtered water, you also protect your machine from building up limescale so quickly.
Clean Your Machine
Now for the boring bit, by cleaning and descaling your machine regularly you will get better-tasting coffee than if it’s full of grime and limescale.
In addition, it can help to regularly run it on the Lungo setting (just before you put the capsule in) as the hot water will help wash away any nasties. Make sure you have an empty cup ready to catch the dirty water.
Don’t Forget The Mug
Finally, don’t forget that the mug is important too. I’m a fan of using my reusable coffee cup (with a lid) even if I’m at home. It means your coffee stays warm for longer, it’s less likely to spill and you’ll feel like you’re drinking the real thing.
Now, we just need to find a way to get five minutes of peace to enjoy your coffee at home!