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If we set water aside, coffee is the most popular drink in the world. We start the day with a cup to wake up in the morning, and some like another to stay awake through the night. Coffee is a must for many after a meal, and it offers a great excuse to take a much-needed break from work. If you’re looking for the tastiest cup of joe, it doesn’t get much better than an authentic Italian espresso.
Moka pots are used to make espressos through water evaporation, and they’ll help you make the perfect cup right at home. Many say moka pots are the best way to prepare coffee. This article will explain why you should have your very own moka pot, and we’ll also go over the best models available on the American market.
Contents
- 1 Key Facts
- 2 Ranking: The best moka pots on the US market
- 3 Shopping Guide: Everything you should know about moka pots
- 3.1 What exactly is a moka pot?
- 3.2 How do moka pots work?
- 3.3 Can I use my moka pot on induction stoves?
- 3.4 What accessories do I need for my moka pot?
- 3.5 Which is better: Moka pot or capsule coffee machine?
- 3.6 How do I clean my moka pot?
- 3.7 What are the different parts of a moka pot?
- 3.8 What are the pros and cons of moka pots?
- 4 Shopping Criteria
- 5 Summary
Key Facts
- Moka pots, also called Italian coffee makers, are your best chance to truly enjoy the bold flavors of high quality coffee. These days, our kitchens are packed with burdensome appliances, but you can have a different kind of home. Say goodbye to the cables, accessories and complex instructions: nothing should be as simple and easy as having a cup of coffee (or two, or three).
- Italian coffee makers are widely considered to prepare the best coffee. Some insist that no other method out there can achieve such a tasty cup.
- There are many different moka pot models at a wide range of prices on the market. Some are truly affordable, while others may put a dent in that wallet. Keep reading to see which is best for you.
Ranking: The best moka pots on the US market
We’ve gathered the best moka pots available on the American market. This section will help you figure out which one is most appropriate for you and your family. It will also familiarize you with the most important factors to keep in mind when shopping for an Italian coffee maker.
No. 1: Bialetti 06800 6-Cup Stovetop Coffee Maker
Amazon’s choice for best moka pot is this sleek coffee maker from Italian brand Bialetti, which is named after the moka pot inventor Alfonso Bialetti. Using it is simple: just add water and coffee, heat and then enjoy! It will take you less than five minutes with this model, which features high quality, polished aluminum in a classic octagonal shape that will look great in your kitchen.
The 6-cup size brews 9.2 ounces of moka coffee, which is enough for one perfect mug of steaming coffee, with a bit left over. Easily disassemble the pot and wash by hand after use. If the 6-cup size isn’t right for you, pick from a handful of Bialetti pots that range from one cup to twelve.
No. 2: Godmorn Stovetop 6-cup Espresso Maker
This premium moka pot from Godmorn is made of food-grade safe 430 stainless steel and makes a rich, tasty cup of Italian coffee that you’ll love. Use it on gas stoves, induction cooktops and outdoor camping stoves, and due to its corrosion and rust resistance, you can even clean it in the dishwasher!
This pot features an ergonomic, sanded handle and an imported safety valve. It holds 6 cups or 300ml of gourmet espresso, but is also easy to store between use. Enjoy its elegant, compact design at an affordable price.
No. 3: Coffee Gator 6-Cup Stovetop Coffee Brewer
American brand Coffee Gator believes that drinking amazing coffee at home is a basic human right. Their traditional moka pot is based on the original Italian design and crafted from premium cast aluminum. It’s fitted with a safety valve and heat-resistant handle for ease of use.
This beautiful black pot comes with two matching, 3-oz stainless steel espresso cups that are insulated to stay hot for longer than standard cups. The pot has 12 oz capacity to make six amazing espresso shots in minutes.
No. 4: GROSCHE Milano 6-cup Stovetop Espresso Maker
If you’re looking for a modern twist on the Italian classic, look no further. This beautifully designed pot from Canadian manufacturer GROSCHE combines the classic octagonal shape with a trendy, heat resistant wooden handle and knob. It also comes in four unique colors—black, red, silver and white—so you can pick the one that best suits your kitchen.
The Milano pot comes in 3, 6 and 9-cup sizes and works well on all gas and electric stove tops, as well as camping stoves. It also has an Italian safety valve to keep pressure from building to a dangerous level.
No. 5: LuxHaus 6-Cup Stovetop Espresso Maker
Last but not least, check out this shiny pot from LuxHaus, which packs all the best features including an easy pour spout, heat resistant handle and a 100% rust-free stainless steel build. It also has a pop-up coffee dispenser to make cleaning it a breeze.
This 6-cup model comes in a beautiful box, making it a great gift option for your favorite coffee lovers. And the makers are so confident you’ll like it that it comes with a lifetime satisfaction guarantee!
Shopping Guide: Everything you should know about moka pots
Now you’re familiar with the top brands and models available, but there are a handful of factors to take into account when you decide which one is right for you. Here’s everything you need to know about moka pots.
There’s nothing better than an Italian espresso after a good meal.
(Source: Guillem: 40441523/ 123rf.com)
What exactly is a moka pot?
Moka pots are designed for preparing the world-famous “espresso italiano.” While Italian espresso tastes very different from the standard American brew, few coffees are as delicious as a traditional espresso. In this case, the coffee is processed via evaporation.
How do moka pots work?
Before buying your own moka pot, you should probably know how it works. The good news is that it’s very easy! You’ll need to fill the tank at the bottom of your moka pot with water, up to the safety mark. Then place the funnel with ground coffee inside on top. Finally, screw the upper part back on, and you’re ready to go!
Moka pots were invented in Italy in 1933 by Alfonso Bialetti.
(Source: Pinkasevich: 114368305/ 1234rf.com)
When your moka pot is ready, put it on the stove and set it to the right heat. Be careful not to press the coffee too hard inside the funnel in order to prevent overflowing. Finally, don’t forget that the coffee will rise to the top part of the pot when the water boils.
When the coffee maker begins to make a gargling sound, you’ll know the coffee is ready. Do note that the coffee will spoil if it boils once it has reached the coffee collector. So there you go! As you can see, there’s not much that’s easier than brewing your own coffee with a moka pot.
Can I use my moka pot on induction stoves?
The early models of moka pots were only made to work on gas stoves. However, they have been adapted over the years and can now be used with various kinds of stoves. Moka pots can be used on induction hobs or stoves, as you may have seen above in the ranking.
If you have an induction stove at home, be sure to check that you get a suitable model. To be sure, we advise you to check the manufacturing material of the pot: ferromagnetic steel is what you need. You’ll also want to check that your stove can operate with small diameter appliances.
What accessories do I need for my moka pot?
You really don’t need much to make an authentic Italian espresso with your moka pot, but the accessories found in the table below might be useful:
| Accessory | Function |
|---|---|
| Grinder | For grinding your coffee |
| Espresso cup | For a perfectly sized coffee |
| Individual thermos | To take coffee on the go |
| Measuring spoon | For exact measurements |
Which is better: Moka pot or capsule coffee machine?
Capsule or pod coffee machines are very popular these days, and you’ll find hundreds of models available on the market. Some can prepare hot chocolate and teas as well. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get a moka pot! Despite its simplicity, the moka pot offers many additional benefits listed right here:
| Characteristic | Advantage |
|---|---|
| Price | You can buy a moka pot for less than $20 |
| Capacity | It can brew coffee for a handful of people at one time |
| Consumption | It uses less energy |
| Maintenance | Cleaning the pot is very easy |
| Durability | It tends to be very resistant to damage |
How do I clean my moka pot?
Cleaning your moka pot with the wrong products can damage the material, so be sure to take proper care of it. Begin by thoroughly rinsing the pot to remove any coffee residue. You may want to use soap. Then carefully dry all of the parts with a clean cloth to avoid the formation of unwanted mold.
When your pot is good and clean, store it while still disassembled to help the joints last longer. Each time you clean the pot, it is also important to check that the valve is free of dirt. Although some newer models can be cleaned in the dishwasher, we recommend that you hand wash your pot to prevent wear and tear.
What are the different parts of a moka pot?
Moka pots are normally comprised of nine individual parts, each of which plays an important role in making the perfect espresso. Let’s review these parts and their specific functions:
- Lid. This serves to prevent coffee from bubbling out of the coffee maker. It can be lifted to see if the water has risen.
- Knob. It is used to lift the lid without burning yourself in the process.
- Coffee collector. This forms the upper body of the moka pot. It collects the coffee once brewed.
- Handle. This is designed with heat resistant material so you can hold the pot without getting burned.
- Gasket. This part separates the filter from the funnel. It’s usually made of rubber or silicone, and it needs to be changed every now and then.
- Funnel. This is where you put the ground coffee. The water will rise from the bottom.
- Heating vessel. It is used to store the water needed to make the coffee.
- Pressure release valve. It is located in the heating vessel and functions to relieve pressure. Be sure not to put too much water in the tank or it may not function properly.
- Filter. Located between the collector and the funnel, this part prevents the ground coffee from mixing in with your finished drink.
An espresso in the morning will give you the energy you need to face the day.
(Source: Andreadonetti: 17474582/ 123rf.com)
What are the pros and cons of moka pots?
Here are the advantages and disadvantages of moka pots:
Shopping Criteria
There are a number of factors you should keep in mind before getting your very own moka pot. This will help you pick the model that best suits your specific needs. Here, we’ve laid out the most important shopping criteria:
- Capacity
- Characteristics
- Design
- Safety
- Material
Capacity
When you’re determining the capacity of your moka pot, be mindful that each cup measures about 100 milliliters. Americans tend to drink a lot of coffee, so don’t be shy: two cups per person may be just right. If you want your coffee maker to be able to meet everybody’s desire for a cup at once, take the number of people in your home and multiply it by two.
Characteristics
There are other important characteristics that you should be aware of besides capacity. The kind of stove you have at home is also important: as mentioned above, not all moka pots are suitable for induction stovetops. Dishwasher-safe models may be what you’re looking for. Check out all of the features that might be important to you in the long run.
Some moka pots come in elegant, modern designs.
(Source: Trebizan: 29305656/ 123rf.com)
Design
Although many moka pots share a similar traditional shape and design, you’ll also find some beautiful new alternatives. The classic pot comes in silver, but you can find others in bright colors or patterns. Still, don’t forget that it might be hard to keep your moka pot in perfect condition.
Safety
It’s very important that you check the safety features of your moka pot. Italian coffee makers pose some risk, since the pressure can build up inside. Make sure the pot you get has a safety valve so you won’t need to worry.
Material
The material your moka pot is made from will impact the quality of the coffee it produces. Most models are made from stainless steel or aluminum, but the former is preferred because it’s stronger. Some coffee makers are also chromed with copper or other metals, which can increase the durability.
Summary
Designed to prepare the very best cup of coffee, moka pots produce a product with a unique and special flavor. All espresso lovers should have one of these. But make sure you consider all the various features when picking yours.
A traditional Italian coffee maker will certainly come in handy if you need to make several espressos at the same time. Using it is truly a piece of cake! Clean the coffee maker after each use to maintain its condition. And don’t forget to dry it well to prevent any mold, and keep an eye on the gasket, which may need to be replaced once in a while.
We hope this guide was interesting and useful. Please don’t hesitate to share it on your social media or leave us a comment with your thoughts below!
(Source of featured image: Rybitskyi: 61853911/ 123rf.com)
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