How to Make an Americano

1. Grind enough espresso beans for 1 1/2 tbsp. (8.4 g) of espresso grounds. Espresso is traditionally ground very finely, more so than drip coffee.
2. Make sure your espresso machine has enough water to create steam for the coffee.
3. Begin heating a pot of water on a stove or in an electric kettle, if your espresso machine does not have an attachment that lets you pour hot water.
4. Place the espresso grounds in the porte filter and evenly pack the grounds down with an attachment on the espresso machine or the bottom of a spoon.This process is called “tamping.” The porte filter looks like a metal cup with a handle.
5. Secure the porte filter to the espresso machine by placing it flush with the machine and twisting to the right.
6. Press the on switch on the machine and allow the water to heat up, if there is a separate switch to turn the machine on and start making coffee.
7. Place a small espresso shot cup underneath the porte filter.
8. Press or turn the on switch. Wait until the cup is about 2/3 full and turn it off.
9. Pour the espresso into a coffee mug.
10. Pour in between 1 and 8 oz. (30 to 235 ml) of hot water from your espresso machine or kettle. This will depend largely upon the strength you desire.
11. Turn off the espresso machine and enjoy your coffee.