Since mankind discovered the magic bean in 800 A.D., there have been countless methods to maximize the extraction of caffeine and its robust flavor. Aside from the fantasy of plunking down thousands for a vintage La Marzocco that would take up all the counter space of my small city kitchen to pump out my standing order – a double-espresso or two – I’m always on the lookout for innovative ways to produce, a strong, crema-rich doppio.
Last year for National Coffee Day, I was lucky to have discovered a portable, analogue brewing method that rivals the viral Aeropress. Wacaco’s Nanopresso ‘requires just hot water, finely ground espresso, and a few hand pumps for a crema-rich shot of caffeine.” More compact and portable than the Aeropress, I love it for picnics, any office with subpar coffee, and any sort of travel.
In the same spirit of convenience and innovation, and dedication to producing a mighty fine shot of caffeine with a streamlined appliance, Wacaco has recently launched the Pixapresso, a portable, electric coffee machine. While the promise of more ways to get caffeinated piqued my interest, it’s the easy and intuitive usability of the device that has made me a fan of his new gadget.
In just a few short steps of packing and tamping down the coffee in the basket, securely attaching it to the device, adding of water, and pressing a few buttons, a shot of espresso, either as a doppio, ristretto, or lungo, will be at your fingertips. The added benefit, that will be especially appreciated by travelers: it calls for cold water, not boiling, like other portable coffee brewing methods.
The larger size encases a battery-operated heating mechanism that brings water to the exact brewing temperature for espresso in 3 minutes. In addition to using your fave finely ground espresso, the machine includes a special basket for Nespresso pods for ultimate convenience and portability. And a quick charge via the enclosed USB Lightning chord is all the Pixapresso needs to keep pumping out espresso like a barista on-the-go.
May you be caffeinated and merry! Happy National Coffee Day!!
