From Sun to Sip: How Sustainable Processing Shapes the Flavours of Kenyan and Rwandan Coffee

We believe that EVERYONE should be able to connect with and have access to good coffee.

The only problem is, if everyone could do it, it wouldn’t be a sought-after craft. So, we’re here to bridge the gap—sharing the essential skills and techniques that will help you enjoy great coffee without feeling overwhelmed by the process. 

Whether you’re dreaming of pulling the perfect espresso shot, creating silky latte art, or simply elevating your morning cup, this guide will take you step by step through the fundamentals. Let’s demystify the art of coffee-making and help you craft café-quality coffee in your own home.

Step One: Pulling the Perfect Espresso Shot

The espresso is the heart of many coffee drinks. A good espresso is rich, smooth, and balanced, with a thick layer of golden crema on top. Here’s how you can make it:

1. Choose Your Beans: Start with fresh, high-quality coffee beans. Look for beans roasted specifically for espresso for the best results.
2. Grind Fresh: Use a burr grinder to get a fine, even grind. The consistency should feel like fine sand.
3. Measure and Tamp: Measure around 18-20 grams of ground coffee for a double shot. Use a tamper to press the coffee into the portafilter evenly and firmly.
4. Brew: Insert the portafilter into your espresso machine and start the shot. Aim for about 25-30 seconds of brewing time. If it’s too fast or too slow, adjust your grind size.
5. Taste and Adjust: A perfect espresso is balanced. If it’s too sour, try a finer grind. If it’s too bitter, go coarser.

Step Two: Mastering Milk Texturing and Latte Art

Creating that creamy, velvety milk you find in lattes and cappuccinos takes practice, but it’s worth it! Here’s how to get started:

1. Start with Cold Milk: Always use fresh, cold milk. Full-fat milk works best for a creamy texture, but non-dairy options like oat milk can work well too.
2. Position the Steam Wand: Place the steam wand just below the surface of the milk and tilt the pitcher slightly. This allows air to mix with the milk, creating microfoam.
3. Steam: Turn on the steam wand and let it run until the milk is warm (around 60-65°C) and has a silky, glossy appearance. Avoid overheating, as it can scald the milk.
4. Pouring for Latte Art: To create designs, start by pouring your milk slowly into the centre of your espresso. Move the pitcher closer and create a design like a heart or a rosette by adjusting your hand movements.

Tips for Home Baristas

Making café-quality coffee at home is easier than you think with a few handy tips:

• Invest in Good Equipment: A reliable espresso machine and a burr grinder are essential. If you’re on a budget, a stovetop espresso maker (moka pot) or an AeroPress can be great alternatives.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly roasted beans and filtered water make a big difference.
• Experiment with Ratios: Try different amounts of coffee and water to find your preferred strength and flavour.
• Practice Patience: Latte art and perfect shots take time to master. Don’t get discouraged—every cup is a learning opportunity!

Final Thoughts

Coffee-making is a skill that anyone can learn with a bit of practice and curiosity. Start small, focus on the basics, and don’t be afraid to try new things. The beauty of coffee is that it’s both personal and versatile. With these tips, you’ll soon be creating café-quality drinks in your own kitchen and impressing friends and family with your skills.