Espresso is a concentrated form of coffee made by forcing hot water through finely-ground coffee beans.

It’s brewed quickly under high pressure, resulting in a small shot of strong, flavorful coffee with a rich, velvety texture called “crema.”The process involves using an espresso machine that forces hot water, typically around 195-205 degrees Fahrenheit (90-96 degrees Celsius), through a compacted puck of finely-ground coffee at high pressure, usually around 9 bars or 130 pounds per square inch (psi). This method extracts the coffee’s flavors, oils, and solids more efficiently and quickly compared to other brewing methods, producing a small but intense serving of coffee.

Espresso serves as the foundation for various coffee beverages like lattes, cappuccinos, macchiatos, and more, where it’s often combined with steamed milk, frothed milk, or other flavorings to create a range of drinks.

Image from Wikipedia