Brewing

Moka pot

A moka pot uses heat and pressure generated in the lower chamber to move water through a bed of coffee into an upper chamber.

How it works

Water in the lower chamber is heated. Pressure generated by the heated water and steam pushes water through the coffee bed and into the upper collection chamber.

Grind and heat

A fine to medium-fine grind is common, although the exact setting varies. Excessive heat can encourage harsh flavours, so controlled brewing is important.

Is it espresso?

Moka pot coffee is concentrated and sometimes compared with espresso, but it is not espresso: the brewing system, pressure and beverage characteristics differ.

Accuracy note: Coffee terminology and recommended brewing parameters can vary by producer, roaster, equipment and recipe. Where a term is not universally standardised, this site says so rather than presenting one convention as a rule.