Preparing the Portafilter
The first step in seasoning a new portafilter is to make sure it is clean and free from any manufacturing residue. To do this, start by removing any packaging or protective film from the portafilter. Then, using warm water and a mild dish soap, gently scrub the portafilter to remove any dirt or debris. Rinse thoroughly to ensure that all soap residue is removed.
Drying the Portafilter
After cleaning, it’s important to thoroughly dry the portafilter to prevent any moisture from impacting the seasoning process. Use a clean towel or paper towel to remove any excess water from the portafilter, paying close attention to the interior and the basket where the coffee grounds will be placed.
Applying Coffee Grounds
Once the portafilter is dry, it’s time to apply the coffee grounds. It’s recommended to use fresh, medium-roast coffee beans for seasoning a portafilter. Grind the coffee beans to a fine consistency, similar to what you would use for an espresso shot. Place the ground coffee into the basket of the portafilter, filling it about two-thirds full.
Tamping the Coffee
After filling the portafilter with ground coffee, it’s important to tamp it evenly and firmly to ensure a consistent extraction. Use a tamper to press down on the coffee, applying pressure using your wrist, arm, and body weight. The goal is to compact the coffee grounds and create a level surface.
Brewing a Blank Shot
Now that the portafilter is prepared with coffee grounds and has been tamped, it’s time to brew a blank shot. This means running water through the portafilter without placing a cup underneath to collect the espresso. The purpose of this step is to allow the hot water to come into contact with the coffee grounds, extracting oils and flavors while also rinsing away any remaining residue from the manufacturing process.
Note: When brewing a blank shot, it’s important to monitor the water flowing through the portafilter. Ideally, the water should flow evenly across the entire surface of the coffee grounds. If you notice uneven extraction, it may be necessary to adjust the grind size, tamping pressure, or brewing time to achieve optimal results.
