Most modern espresso machines come with filter baskets both for loose coffee and for espresso pods. ESE espresso pods fit all models of espresso machines which have a filter basket for pods.
I used to have an Illy Francis Francis (can't remember which model) that worked with ESE pods. I am looking for a new machine to use with ESE pods, but want the ESE portafilter to be all stainless steel (no rubber or plastic parts inside) as the Illy model was. Sadly, Illy is only making machines to be used with capsules now. I ordered a Saeco, but returned it because of the rubber piece to be used with the pods. Any suggestions?
Hi. I have a new De Longhi machine here in UK and cannot find an ESE pod basket like the one you have. Is there a link you have to find one as De Longhi are pretty hopeless. I've searched the web and De Longhi just guided me to their site which I have already done. Thanks Steve
Is each pod considered a single or double shot? I have a single ESE portafilter basket and a ESE double which one does it go in and also my machine lets me push single or double. Thank you for sharing.
I've never used coffee pods but I'm curious about the flavor from them. Meaning, regular espresso contains all of the flavor oils from the beans whereas these pods are in a filter. How much does this filter paper it's wrapped in change or alter the flavor of the coffee? Thanks!
+helpfulnatural filter paper normally never alters the flavour. In drip brewed coffees, you normally 'wash' the filter with hot water to prevent it from influencing the coffee flavour. Also there is bleached filter paper and rough filter paper (yellow-brownish) which are different. Anyway the paper used in PODs will hardly influence the taste of the espresso which is much stronger and the amount and time that the paper is exposed to hot water (normally 25 seconds for 25ml) is not high enough to give a paper taste. The main problem of PODs is that coffee is unstorable in general (due to carbon dioxide release from the beans) so can't compare PODs with freshly roasted + freshly ground coffee. Using pod is an easier (a compromise) way to prepare espresso. Also not everybody has access to roasters and good coffee grinders. I roast my own coffee since years and did a lot of research. First you have to know how do the roasted coffee beans work. It will open your mind and will make you understand everything else about all different types of coffee packages etc.
rogermorse Thanks for the explanation. I used to brew pour-over coffee so I'm aware how coffee paper filters work, they do absorb many of the natural flavor oils from the beans. Personally, I would never use pods, even though my espresso machine has an adapter for them. I don't like pre-ground coffee, spoiled from using whole beans I guess. :) I used to roast my own beans as well, it was fun but was difficult to do during the winter when it's too cold, or wet, or both to stand outside doing it. It smokes up the house too much to do it indoors. Having never used the pods, I was just curious as to whether it was worth the convenience. I enjoy grinding my own beans too much to give it up! :-)
+helpfulnatural if your main coffee brew method is pour-over, I suggest you try metal filters if you haven't already. It is a totally different coffee. I roast my beans with a gas roaster and I do it always indoor (no special room) for 250g amount of coffee. The smoke is there but if you are good enough you can convey it outside of a window nearby.....but anyway I like the smoke from roasting very much :)
rogermorse I don't want to open any windows, even a crack this time of year. It's 18F outside right now. Brrrr! My main brewing method is espresso for my morning latte. During the warmer months, I make cold brew coffee in my 12 cup French press. I also enjoy a cup from my stainless steel moka pot every now and then. I don't do the pour over method much anymore. As for roasting, I used a hot air popcorn popper. Very quick and efficient but messy to work with. Smoke and chaff everywhere!
+Potter bat Many do, but not all. But you can probably get an adapter to place inside your porta filter basket to accommodate the pod. Check these websites for more details: seattlecoffeegear.com. wholelattelove.com.
Just for info (Response to Judith), I just bought some from Waitrose. I bought the waitrose own Coffee Pods at £3.48 for 18 pods but they also had Illy ESE Pods in the store at £7.48 for 18. I love Illy coffee but I must admit that the price almost brought me to tears, I'll try the own brand first....
I did expect a demonstration how to use ese pads in a espresso machine. And how the creme of the espresso is looking like and the taste of it. But it's only talk, talk and talk
I learn from you that these ESE Pods are like tea-bags but with ground coffee within. It is NOT a plastic pod as per Nespresso. That's what I learn. Who would have thought that making coffee could have so many variables? You aren't going to use any old water for this are you?
Not enough information. ESE pods are designed for pressurized machines that have dual wall baskets. I've used them in my non pressurized machine and it comes out like tea
That takes all the art and fun out of it...not sure I can see the joy in that....why not just go to Starbucks then and let them help simplify your life :)
Staying somewhere where they have one of these machines. Total shite. Tassimo or Nespresso everyday. This is just hassle. I want a coffee, not training to be a Barista.
