Understanding how to make espresso is the first step in enjoying espresso-style beverages at home, like an Americano or a Latte. Brewing regular coffee in your drip coffee maker will suffice for a regular cup, but you'll need a different method if you seek a rich, concentrated shot of espresso.
Unlike regular drip coffee, espresso extracts intense flavors from coffee beans, resulting in a strong-tasting coffee. The easiest way to make espresso is by using an espresso maker, which uses hot water and high pressure. However, this isn't the only way to brew a great shot of espresso. Below, we'll explore how to make espresso, both with and without an espresso maker.
