Coffee Maker How-To: Austrian Edition

Coffee is an essential part of Austrian food culture, and there are many ways to make it. In this article, we'll be discussing how to use a coffee maker in Austria, including the steps to make a delicious cup of coffee and the different types of coffee makers available. Whether you're a coffee connoisseur or just looking for a quick caffeine fix, read on to discover the art of coffee-making in Austria!

Espresso machines: fill the base with water, insert the filter, add ground coffee, and screw the chambers together

Espresso machines are a popular choice for coffee lovers in Austria, and here's a step-by-step guide to using one:

Firstly, fill the base of your espresso machine with cold water. The water reservoir, or base, is usually located at the back of the machine and is marked with clear water level indicators. Make sure you don't overfill it and keep it below the 'MAX' line.

Next, insert the filter. Most machines will have a removable filter basket, which you can fill with ground coffee. Completely fill the filter with ground coffee, but avoid packing it down tightly. Some machines may also allow you to adjust the grind settings to your preference.

Once the filter is in place, ensure that the rubber gasket, a ring-shaped component, is also properly positioned. The gasket is important as it creates a tight seal between the base and the filter chamber. Now, you can screw the two chambers tightly together. This step is crucial as it builds up the pressure required to brew espresso.

If your machine has a steam knob, ensure it's in the standby position before turning on the power. You'll know your machine is ready when the interface lights up.

Select the filter basket size that matches the amount of espresso you wish to brew, whether a single or double shot. If you're using a bean hopper, add your coffee beans and adjust the grind settings if needed. Then, press the button for your desired dose.

Once the grinder has finished, manually tamp your grounds. Tamping compresses the coffee grounds and is an important step in achieving the right pressure and extraction. After tamping, lock the portafilter into the group head, which is the component that dispenses the coffee.

Finally, press the button that matches your filter basket size, and your espresso machine will begin brewing your coffee!

With these steps, you'll be able to enjoy a perfectly brewed espresso made with your very own espresso machine.

Moka pots: fill the base with water, insert the filter, fill with ground coffee, and place on a stove at low heat

Coffee is an essential part of Austrian food culture, and there are many ways to make it. One way is to use a Moka pot, which is perfect for making espresso-style coffee. Here is a step-by-step guide to using a Moka pot:

Firstly, fill the base chamber of the Moka pot with cold water up to the level of the valve. It is important not to overfill the chamber as this can affect the coffee's flavour and the pot's safety.

Next, insert the filter into the base chamber. The filter should fit snugly inside the chamber, and it is important to ensure that it is secure before proceeding to the next step.

Now, fill the filter with ground coffee. When filling the filter, it is important not to pack the coffee down. Simply fill the filter to the top with ground coffee, and you are good to go!

Once the filter is filled, screw the two chambers of the Moka pot together tightly. Ensure that the rubber gasket is in place and secure before tightening. A tight seal is crucial to the coffee-making process and your safety.

Place the Moka pot on the stove and turn the heat to low. It is important to keep the heat low to avoid burning the coffee or damaging the Moka pot.

Remove the pot from the heat just as the coffee starts to gurgle. Be careful not to let the coffee rise and bubble, as this can cause spillage and affect the taste.

Finally, mix the coffee with a spoon before pouring it into cups. This ensures that the flavours are evenly distributed and that you get a consistent taste with each cup.

There you have it! A simple, step-by-step guide to using a Moka pot to make delicious Austrian coffee. Enjoy your brew!

Drip coffee machines: fill the water reservoir, add ground coffee to the filter, and turn the machine on

Drip coffee machines are a great option for beginners, offering simplicity, affordability, and the ability to brew a large pot of coffee for multiple servings. Here's a step-by-step guide to using a drip coffee machine, specifically focusing on filling the water reservoir, adding ground coffee to the filter, and turning the machine on:

Filling the Water Reservoir:

• Locate the water reservoir, usually at the back or side of the machine.
• Open the reservoir by lifting the lid or accessing it through a designated door.
• Using fresh, cold water, fill the reservoir to the desired level, ensuring you don't exceed the maximum fill line. Some machines may have markings for different serving sizes.
• Close the reservoir securely.

Adding Ground Coffee to the Filter:

• Remove the filter basket from the machine. It is typically located under the brew head or lid.
• Open the filter basket by lifting the lid or unlocking the basket.
• Check the recommended coffee-to-water ratio in the machine's instructions. As a general guideline, use one tablespoon of ground coffee per cup of water.
• Add the desired amount of ground coffee to the filter. Avoid overfilling to prevent overflow during brewing.
• Close the filter basket securely.
• Reinsert the filter basket into the machine, ensuring it is properly locked into place.

Turning the Machine On:

• Plug in the machine and power it on using the designated button or switch.
• Some machines may have a separate "Brew" button to initiate the brewing process.
• If your machine has programmable features, such as auto-on or strength settings, adjust them according to your preferences before starting the brew cycle.
• Once the machine is turned on, it will begin the brewing process.
• The machine will heat the water, drip it through the ground coffee in the filter, and collect the brewed coffee in the carafe.
• Depending on the volume of coffee, the brewing process may take around 5 to 7 minutes.
• Once the brewing cycle is complete, you can serve the coffee.

Drip coffee machines are straightforward to use and offer convenience, making them a popular choice for coffee lovers who want a simple, efficient way to brew their daily cup.

Choosing the right coffee beans: opt for ground coffee from brands like Illy, Tschibo, or Jacobs

Coffee is an essential part of Austrian food culture, and choosing the right coffee beans is crucial to achieving the perfect cup of coffee. While there is no single type of "Austrian coffee", opting for ground coffee from popular brands in Austria, such as Illy, Tschibo, or Jacobs, is a safe bet. These brands are readily available in local supermarkets, and their coffee beans are of good quality, ensuring a flavourful cup of coffee.

Illy, for example, is a well-known Italian coffee brand that is widely available in Austria. They offer a range of coffee blends, from classic espresso roasts to single-origin beans, providing a variety of flavour profiles to suit different tastes. Tschibo is another excellent option, offering a diverse selection of coffee beans, including blends from around the world and single-origin beans from countries like Ethiopia and Brazil. As for Jacobs, they are a trusted German coffee brand with a strong presence in Austria. They offer a wide range of coffee blends, from mild to strong, catering to various preferences.

When choosing between these brands, consider your taste preferences and the specific coffee drink you wish to make. For example, if you prefer a stronger, more intense flavour, opt for a darker roast or a blend known for its robust profile. On the other hand, if you favour a lighter, more subtle flavour, a medium roast or a blend with fruity or floral notes might be ideal. Additionally, consider the specific preparation method you will be using, as some blends may be better suited for espresso machines, while others might excel when brewed using a drip coffee maker or a French press.

Remember, the quality of your coffee beans will significantly impact the final taste of your coffee, so it is worth investing in reputable brands like Illy, Tschibo, or Jacobs to ensure a satisfying coffee experience.

Milk-based coffee drinks: try a Melange, Milchkaffee, or Kapuziner

If you're looking for a milk-based coffee drink to make with your coffee maker in Austria, you might want to try a Melange, Milchkaffee, or Kapuziner. Here's how to make them:

Melange

A Melange is a traditional Viennese coffee drink that is similar to a latte. It is made with one part espresso and two parts steamed milk, with a small amount of milk foam on top. To make a Melange, start by brewing your espresso. While your espresso is brewing, heat up some milk. You can do this by steaming it with an espresso machine or heating it on the stove. Once your milk is heated, pour it into your mug, followed by the espresso. Top it off with a small amount of milk foam, and your Melange is ready to enjoy!

Milchkaffee

Milchkaffee, which translates to "milk coffee" in German, is made with equal parts strong brewed coffee and hot milk, with a layer of milk foam on top. To make Milchkaffee, start by brewing your coffee strong. While your coffee is brewing, heat up some milk. You can do this by steaming it with an espresso machine, heating it on the stove, or even using the microwave. Once your milk is heated, pour it into your mug, followed by the hot coffee. Top it off with milk foam, and you're ready to enjoy your Milchkaffee. You can also dust it with a little cocoa powder if you like.

Kapuziner

The Kapuziner is a traditional Viennese coffee drink that is similar to a cappuccino. It is made with espresso and a small amount of full cream or whipped cream. To make a Kapuziner, simply brew your espresso and top it with a small amount of cream or whipped cream. The ratio of espresso to cream is typically 2:1, so adjust the amounts according to your taste preference.

Frequently asked questions