Understanding the Basics of Portafilters
For coffee lovers, portafilters are important equipment, especially for espresso makers. A portafilter is a small handle, which has a filter basket to hold ground coffee. It is one of the most essential parts of an espresso machine that comes in two different types, pressurized and non-pressurized. In this article, we will discuss the difference between pressurized and non-pressurized portafilters.
Pressurized Portafilters
Pressurized portafilters are designed for beginners who are still trying to master the art of making espresso. The filter basket in these portafilters has a small hole, which helps in creating pressure to force water through the coffee grounds evenly. With pressurized portafilters, the tamper pressure is not as important since the pressure inside the portafilter is designed to do the work on its own.
Non-pressurized Portafilters
On the other hand, non-pressurized portafilters are common among professional baristas. They have larger filter baskets and no pressure inside the portafilter to help extract and brew espresso. The tamper pressure is very important in this case since the tamp and the right amount of coffee ground is all that helps the water to saturate the coffee grind evenly. Non-pressurized portafilters allow for a more precise and personalized shot of espresso.
Difference in Taste
The main difference in taste between a pressurized and non-pressurized shot of espresso is that the former usually produces a thinner and less flavorful shot. Pressurized portafilters don’t allow enough contact between the coffee and the water to extract the full flavor of the coffee. In contrast, non-pressurized portafilters do the job of extraction much better, producing full-bodied coffee with more flavor and aroma.
In the end, the choice between a pressurized and non-pressurized portafilter depends on your needs and skill level. If you’re just starting out as a barista, then a pressurized portafilter is the way to go. However, if you’re looking to level up your coffee game, then investing in a non-pressurized portafilter is a must. Regardless of the type of portafilter, it is important to remember that practice makes perfect when it comes to brewing the perfect shot of espresso.
