The Science of Coffee

4) Espresso Technology

Jan 3, 2023
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INSIGHT

Portafilters Improved Freshness But Brought Risk

  • Early commercial machines (like La Pavoni) introduced portafilters so coffee could be brewed fresh to order.
  • These designs solved freshness but were dangerous and used steam, producing burnt, crema-less coffee.
ANECDOTE

Lever Machines Gave Us Crema

  • The Gaggia lever machine (late 1940s) produced crema by using hot water at 93°C and high pressure via a lever.
  • Lever operation allowed finer grind and higher extraction, creating the rich espresso we recognize today.
ANECDOTE

A Lever Handle Fractured A Barista's Jaw

  • Lever machines were physically dangerous and could injure baristas if the handle snapped back unexpectedly.
  • Highland Joseph described a chin injury where the lever popped up and fractured his jaw.
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