Espresso is a concentrated coffee drink that is made by forcing hot water under pressure through finely ground coffee beans. On the other hand, Moka pot is a coffee maker that brews coffee by passing boiling water pressurized by steam through ground coffee.

Does Moka Pot Make Espresso?

Moka pot does not make espresso because the water in Moka pot is not pressurized like in an espresso machine. However, Moka pot brews a coffee that is similar to espresso and sometimes it is also called stove-top espresso. The coffee from Moka pot has a concentrated taste with a thick body and it is also very bitter.

When you make espresso using a Moka pot, the taste will not be as strong or concentrated as when made with an espresso machine. However, if you are looking for a coffee with a similar taste to espresso, then Moka pot is a good option.

If you want to make espresso with a Moka pot, we recommend using dark roast coffee beans for the best flavor. You will also need to grind the coffee beans very fine, almost like powder.

Differences Between Moka Pot and Espresso Machine

Now that we know Moka pot does not make espresso, let’s take a look at the differences between a Moka pot and espresso machine.

An espresso machine uses pressure to force hot water through coffee grounds, whereas a Moka pot uses steam pressure.

Espresso is made with finely ground coffee beans, while Moka pot coffee is made with coarsely ground coffee beans.

Espresso is typically made with Arabica coffee beans, while Moka pot coffee is usually made with Robusta coffee beans.

Espresso has a strong and concentrated flavor, while Moka pot coffee has a weaker and less concentrated flavor.

Espresso is made with hot water that is around 200 degrees Fahrenheit, while Moka pot coffee is made with boiling water.

Espresso is typically served in small quantities, while Moka pot coffee is usually served in larger quantities.

Moka pots don’t apply any pressure to the water as it travels through the grounds, relying instead on steam produced by your stovetop. Another variable could be different every time you brew it. This can have a significant influence on how your espresso tastes.

As for the espresso machine, the term refers to a device that makes espresso. Espresso machines are designed to make two types of coffee: an Italian-style espresso (typically stronger and more intense) and a French-style cafe au lait (usually milder, with a milkier flavor). The majority of high-quality espresso machines allow you to customize the process in terms of time, temperature, and pressure. The machine maintains these parameters at a level of consistency that Moka pots can’t match.

Moka Pot Pros

• Moka pot is easier to use and doesn’t require any special skills or training.
• Moka pots are less expensive than espresso machines.
• Moka pots are more portable than espresso machines and can be taken with you when traveling.

Espresso Machine Pros

• Espresso machines require a higher initial investment, but they last longer and produce a higher quality product.
• Espresso machines allow for more customization and control over the brewing process.
• Espresso machines are more complex and require more training and skill to use.

Moka Pot Cons

• Moka pots produce coffee that is not as strong or concentrated as espresso.
• Moka pot coffee can be more bitter than espresso.
• Moka pots are more likely to produce inconsistent results.

Espresso Machine Cons

• Espresso machines require a higher initial investment.
• Espresso machines are more complex and require more training and skill to use.

What is the Best Coffee for Moka Pot and Espresso Machines?

The best coffee for Moka pot is a dark roast with a fine grind. For espresso machines, we recommend using a medium to dark roast with a fine to medium grind.