Give it a Shot

Espresso was originally invented by a guy named Luigi Bezzera, an Italian man short on time, who wanted an express cup of coffee, hence espresso. Who knew? Today espresso machines are expensive and miles away from how the tradition first began.  The truly high end models run thousands of dollars and lower priced units are full of complicated parts and pieces to clean.  Add the counter or cabinet space necessary to store them, and the $4 espresso at Starbucks seems worth it.  But a $26 solution in the spirit of Luigi is available. The Aeropress coffee and espresso maker is a truly simple and inexpensive way to make authentic espresso for the pickiest coffee snobs.  Just put the microfilter sheet in the cap (it comes with a one year supply) and coffee grounds into the chamber. Microwave hot water for 20 seconds (175 degrees) and add to the cap. Let it sit for 10 seconds, and slowly plunge the coffee into your cup (for 20 seconds) for a perfectly brewed shot of expresso. The clean up involves pushing the grounds into the garbage can and rinsing the plunger. The best part at $26 it will pay for itself within a week.  Don't believe me? See for yourself.

Have your espresso and drink it too.