Ep 19. Espress Yourself

In the Espress Yourself episode of Good Eats, host Alton Brown takes a dive into the world of espresso and demystifies the daunting process of making the perfect shot. Brown begins by explaining the importance of a good grinder, as the consistency of the grind is crucial to achieving a balanced and flavorful shot. He then tackles the different types of espresso machines, from the traditional lever-style machines to the more modern automatic models.

Brown also delves into the science behind the perfect shot, breaking down the chemical reactions that occur when hot water is forced through finely ground coffee beans. He emphasizes the importance of a precise extraction time, as over-extraction can result in a bitter taste while under-extraction can leave the shot weak and sour.

Throughout the episode, Brown sprinkles in his trademark wit and humor, even enlisting the help of actor and coffee aficionado Zach Galifianakis for a tongue-in-cheek demonstration of how not to make espresso. Brown also takes a trip to a local coffee roastery to learn about the importance of using fresh beans and how to properly store them.

As the episode progresses, Brown offers tips and tricks for perfecting the art of espresso, from properly tamping the grounds to frothing milk for lattes and cappuccinos. He even offers up some creative espresso-based recipe ideas, such as espresso barbecue sauce and espresso granita.

Overall, the Espress Yourself episode of Good Eats is a fun and informative look into the world of espresso. Whether you're a seasoned barista or a coffee newbie, Brown's tips and tricks will help you take your espresso game to the next level.