Posted Tue May 6, 2008, 4:03pm Subject: my current problem
A barista at a local shop brought me behind the counter and gave me a demo of their steaming.
I've deducted that I don't think I am getting the wand on my Estro Vapore powerful enough to steam all the milk. I find I am getting heated milk with a few glops of foam at the end (which mixes with the crema really well).
What are your ways of cheating this machine? I run the steam dry until the light goes out, I find is the best way. Is there a better way?
I know I'm newb but I would sure appreciate some responses!
Posted Tue May 6, 2008, 4:48pm Subject: Re: my current problem
I haven't used that particular machine, so I don't know how much I can help. But I'll give it a shot anyway.
On my Gaggia, the best way to make the most of the limited steam power is to start steaming before the steam ready light goes on. In other words, pull the shot, hit the steam switch, bleed the water out of the wand, then wait about 15 or 20 seconds and test the steam by opening the wand slightly. If it seems wimpy, close the wand and wait a few more seconds, then try again.
If you wait too long, the steam ready light goes on and the boiler will tend to run out of steam before your milk is finished. But if you start steaming just before the light goes on, you can trick the boiler heating element into staying on the whole time you're steaming, which keeps the steam much stronger.
Also, use a small 12 ounce pitcher and fill it only halfway. This should give you enough milk for a traditional cappuccino, but still allow you to get the milk to swirl around as you steam. The swirling action is what you need to get the bubbles to incorporate with the milk and get that nice smooth texture. Bang the pitcher on the counter after you're done, and then swirl the pitcher in small circles by hand to smooth out any big bubbles. Now you should have a nice, creamy microfoam. If not, keep practicing. You'll get it eventually, but it takes time.
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