The best coffee for Moka Pot is usually a medium to medium-fine ground darker roast. This comes from several expert sources who have been brewing using this famous coffee contraption for years. Of course, everyone’s palate is a little different, so we will cover several recommendations here.
There is a TON of information out there on this subject. This guide cuts through the noise to bring you the best moka pot coffee picks that will make your Moka Pot sing, along with essential tips on roast, grind, and bean variety tailored for the unique brewing method of the Moka Pot.
Key Takeaways
- The choice of coffee beans and roast level (Arabica, medium to darker roast recommended) along with the grind consistency (medium to medium-fine) are crucial for the perfect Moka Pot brew.
- For Moka Pot brewing, you’ve got options for every budget and taste, including top-shelf specialty coffees or pre-ground versus whole bean based on your convenience and flavor preference.
- Proper brewing techniques involving water quality, coffee-to-water ratio, and heat management combined with regular cleaning and maintenance of the Moka Pot are essential for crafting a delicious cup of coffee.
Why Trust Us?
We here at Brewcules rarely use the Moka Pot, so we turned to the experts. After scouring over 113 comments, pages, and videos on the subject, we feel very confident with our list of recommendations.
Our Top Picks For The Best Coffee For Moka Pot
Best Overall – Lavazza Crema E Gusto
In the words of the Stoics, balance is key in life, and so it is with coffee. Lavazza Crema e Gusto offers a balanced experience, combining the robustness of its flavor with the practicality of its use, much like how a philosopher seeks harmony in thought and action. Perfect for those seeking a strong, yet affordable introduction to the rich heritage of Italian Moka Pot
Pros:
- Aroma and Flavor: This blend is noted for its fragrant aroma and flavor, characterized by chocolate and spicy notes. The harmonious combination of South American and Asian beans ensures a well-balanced aroma.
- Versatility: Lavazza Crema e Gusto is highly versatile, suitable for various brewing methods including espresso, Moka Pot, and French press, making it an excellent choice for different preferences.
Cons:
- Pre-ground Format: While convenient, the pre-ground nature of the coffee might not appeal to purists who prefer grinding their own beans for maximum freshness.
- Intensity and Bitterness: With an intensity rating of seven out of ten, it may be too strong or slightly bitter for those with a preference for milder coffee flavors.
Best Lighter Option – Lavazza Crema E Gusto Dolce
As Seneca once said, “True happiness is… to enjoy the present, without anxious dependence upon the future.” With Lavazza Crema E Gusto Dolce, one can truly enjoy the present. A mix of Arabica and Robusta beans, It’s a blend that caters to those seeking a bold yet smooth introduction to the world of espresso, without the harshness often associated with dark roasts.
Pros:
- Suitability for Moka Pots: This blend excels when brewed in a Moka Pot, aligning with the traditional Italian coffee-making method. The Moka Pot extracts the best qualities of this blend, making it a preferred choice for espresso lovers.
- Affordability and Accessibility: Like its counterpart, Crema e Gusto Dolce is reasonably priced, making it accessible for first-time coffee drinkers looking to explore high-quality Italian coffee without a hefty price tag.
Cons:
- Less Defined Flavors: Compared to other Lavazza offerings, Crema e Gusto Dolce has a less defined flavor profile. While it offers a spicy and earthy taste, it might lack the distinct characteristics sought by some coffee connoisseurs.
- Limited Versatility: This blend is specifically tailored for Moka Pot brewing, which might limit its appeal to those who prefer other brewing methods or a more versatile coffee blend.
Best Affordable Option – Cafe Bustelo Ground Espresso Coffee
Cafe Bustelo Ground Espresso Coffee, a blend with Cuban roots, is a staple in the world of espresso, renowned for its affordability and robust flavor. It’s finely ground, perfect for packing into espresso makers, and delivers a strong, dense coffee experience. This coffee is particularly suitable for those who appreciate a full-bodied and intense cup, embodying the spirit of Latin American coffee culture.
Pros:
- Affordability: One of the most striking features of Cafe Bustelo is its affordability. It is one of the most budget-friendly brands available, often priced at less than $0.40 per ounce, allowing consumers to get a pound of coffee for well under $10.
- Strong and Distinct Flavor: The blend offers a robust and bitter flavor with a deep raisin taste, making it a favorite among those who prefer a strong coffee. Its dense and heavy body can be an appealing characteristic for those accustomed to Latin American-style coffees.
Cons:
- Overpowering for Some: The intense bitterness and dense body of Cafe Bustelo might be overwhelming for those who prefer lighter or more nuanced coffee flavors.
- Less Suitable for Drip Coffee Brewing: While versatile, Cafe Bustelo’s strong profile may not be as well-suited for regular coffee brewing methods, particularly for those who favor a milder cup.
Best Pre-Ground For Moka – Illy Ground Moka Classico
Illy Ground Moka Classico maintains a balance of boldness and subtlety that is commendable, and nabs our spot for the best ground coffee. This medium-roasted blend, made from a diverse mix of 50 Arabica beans, offers a well-rounded, fresh taste with a hint of fruitiness, setting it apart from the typically dark and bitter Italian coffees.
Pros:
- Well-Balanced Flavor: The Illy Classico is a medium roast that strikes a perfect balance between boldness and subtlety, offering a fresh and slightly fruity taste without overwhelming the palate.
- Aroma and Quality: Upon opening, it releases a burst of earthy but sweet aroma, indicative of its high-quality Arabica beans. Illy’s meticulous bean selection process ensures a standout flavor that is distinctly Italian but not as overpowering as expected from traditional Italian coffees.
Cons:
- Subtlety of Citrus Notes: For some, the citrus undertones might be too subtle potentially leaving them desiring a more pronounced freshness to balance the earthy flavors.
- Comparison to Stronger Blends: Compared to other Italian brands like Lavazza, which might offer a more robust and chocolatey profile, Illy Classico is less intense. This could be a downside for those who prefer a stronger, more pronounced flavor profile in their coffee.
Best Starbucks Coffee – Starbucks Sumatra
Starbucks Sumatra Dark boasts a roast-dominant, smoky-sweet character, with tantalizing notes of dark chocolate, burned mesquite, lily, prune, and fresh earth both in aroma and cup. This coffee offers a bittersweet structure with minimal acidity and a heavy, smooth mouthfeel.
Pros:
- Rich and Earthy Flavor: Starbucks Sumatra offers a distinct flavor profile, combining smoky sweetness with earthy undertones, ideal for those who appreciate a more intense and robust coffee experience.
- Smooth Mouthfeel: Despite its bold flavor, this coffee has a smooth and heavy mouthfeel, providing a satisfyingly rich texture that complements its taste profile.
Cons:
- Bitterness: The dark roast of Starbucks Sumatra might result in a finish that is more bitter than some coffee drinkers prefer, especially those accustomed to lighter roasts.
- Lack of Acidity: With barely perceptible acidity, this coffee may not offer the bright or tangy notes that some coffee aficionados seek, leaning more toward a one-dimensional profile
Best Whole Bean – Lavazza Super Crema Whole Bean
Lavazza Super Crema delivers a symphony of flavors, combining sweet, fruity notes from Arabica beans sourced from Brazil, India, and Colombia, with a hint of bitterness from Robusta beans from Indonesia. The medium roast preserves the natural flavors and aroma of the beans, ensuring a consistent and quality Moka Brew every time.
Pros:
- Flavor and Aroma: The blend offers a rich and creamy texture, balanced flavor with hints of chocolate, and an inviting aroma of sweet, toasted bread and honey, contributing to a delightful sensory experience.
- Bean Quality: The blend consists of high-quality Arabica and Robusta beans, providing a smooth, balanced espresso with sweet and fruity notes, complemented by a slight bitterness that adds depth to the flavor profile.
Cons:
- Mildness: Some coffee drinkers might find the flavor too mild, especially those who prefer a stronger or bolder taste in their daily coffee.
- Freshness Concerns: There have been instances noted by reviewers where the roast date on the package was a few months before receipt, raising concerns about the freshness of the beans upon arrival.
Best Regional (Italian) – Medaglia D’Oro Italian Roast Espresso Style Ground Coffee
Medaglia D’Oro Italian Roast Espresso Style Ground Coffee is a popular choice for those who enjoy a rich, aromatic, and authentic Italian coffee experience. This dark roast coffee is known for its bold, dark beauty and fine flavors. This is a favorite for classic Italian Moka Pot enthusiasts and nearly made our number-one spot
Pros:
- Highly Rated: With high customer satisfaction ratings, this coffee has been well-received for its quality and flavor, indicating a consistent and enjoyable coffee experience.
- Strength Without Bitterness: Most customers rave about how they can brew good coffee that is strong without the typical strong coffee bite.
Cons:
- Specific Taste Profile: The bold and dark profile of this espresso might not appeal to those who prefer lighter or more nuanced coffee flavors.
- Pre-Ground Format: For coffee enthusiasts who prefer freshly ground coffee beans for optimal flavor, the pre-ground nature of this coffee might be a limitation.
Best Decaf – Kicking Horse Decaf Coffee
Kicking Horse Decaf Coffee is a 100% Arabica coffee boasting a deep chocolate aroma with a nutty complexity, offering a balanced body with a long-lasting finish. This decaf coffee is organic, fairtrade, kosher, and ensures a smooth and delicious taste, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a high-quality decaf option.
Pros:
- Swiss Water Process: The decaffeination process retains the flavor of the coffee and eliminates any chemical aftertaste, providing a smooth and balanced taste.
- Roasting Location: Roasted in the Canadian Rocky Mountains, the unique climate and altitude contribute to the coffee’s deep and distinctive flavors.
Cons:
- Decaffeination Process: While the Swiss Water Process is effective in retaining flavor, some coffee enthusiasts might prefer the taste of coffee decaffeinated using other methods or the more robust profile of caffeinated coffees.
- Dark Roast Profile: For those who prefer a lighter roast, the dark roast level of Kicking Horse Decaf might be too intense or overwhelming.
Discovering the Ideal Coffee for Your Moka Pot
Choosing the appropriate coffee beans can significantly enhance your brewing experience. You see, the coffee beans, their roast level, and how finely they’re ground play a pivotal role in the taste, strength, and quality of your brew.
Top Bean Varieties for Moka Pot Excellence
With a multitude of options like Arabica, Robusta, Brazilian, or Colombian, finding the ideal bean variety for your ideal Moka Pot brew can be quite a task. Some popular choices include:
- Arabica beans, with their complex flavor and less bitterness
- Beans from Brazil, Colombia, Ethiopia
- Blends like Lavazza Super Crema, Illy Ground Moka Classico, and Lavazza Crema E Gusto Dolce
These bean varieties have been known to work exceptionally well with Moka Pots, especially when using a coffee basket.
Offering a mild and creamy flavor with hints of roasted hazelnut and brown sugar, Lavazza Super Crema Whole Bean Coffee Blend contrasts Fresh Roasted Coffee Organic Guatemalan Huehuetenango’s balanced flavor profile with citrusy acidity and notes of milk chocolate and a sweet orange finish. Thus, experimenting with different bean coffee varieties, including the richly sweet coffee bean, can lead you to discover your perfect blend, offering a robust and flavorful cup of coffee fresh every time.
Roast Matters: Medium vs. Dark Roast for Moka Pots
Moving on, let’s discuss the roast. The flavor of your brew is greatly affected by the roast level of your coffee beans. It’s important to choose the right roast for the flavor you desire. Now we outlined some great coffee roasters above, but here is the general recommendations. A medium roast is often touted as the best as it strikes a perfect balance between bitterness and acidity without being overly intense.
However, for those who love a rich and bold taste, a dark roast coffee like Café Bustelo Espresso Dark Roast can be a delightful choice. Dark roast packs a stronger punch with more robust and ashy notes. On the other hand, medium roast coffee offers a balanced flavor profile that might appeal to a wider audience. So, the key here is to experiment with different roast levels until you find the one that tingles your taste buds in all the right ways!
The Grind Game: Achieving the Perfect Consistency
Lastly, it’s time to address the grinding process. Consistency in grind is essential for brewing with a Moka Pot as it can greatly impact the final taste and quality of your coffee. The right grind ensures optimal extraction and a flavorful brew. For a perfect brew, a medium to medium-fine grind is recommended. Typically, this means somewhere between an espresso grind and a French press grind. This grind size ensures that your coffee isn’t over-extracted, which would lead to a bitter taste, nor under-extracted, resulting in a weak cup.
To achieve this perfect consistency, a burr coffee grinder is your best bet. And remember, the grind size can be adjusted to your preference. After all, the beauty of brewing your own coffee is in the ability to customize the brew to your exact liking!
Pre-Ground Versus Whole Bean: What’s Best for Your Moka Pot?
The debate between pre-ground and whole bean coffee is always fierce one. While pre-ground coffee offers convenience, whole bean provides a fresh and flavorful brew that’s hard to beat.
In the end, the choice between pre-ground and whole bean boils down to your personal preference and lifestyle. If you value convenience and speed, pre-ground coffee might be your cup of tea. However, if you’re a true coffee connoisseur who doesn’t mind investing a few extra minutes for a fresh and aromatic brew, whole bean is the way to go!
The Brewing Guide: Steps to a Flavorful Moka Pot Coffee
With the perfect beans, roast, and grind in hand, it’s time to brew! Brewing coffee involves mastering the water quality, coffee-to-water ratio, and heat management.
Shall we proceed with the brewing guide?
Water Wisdom: How Quality Impacts Taste
Believe it or not, the quality of the water you use can dramatically impact the taste of your coffee. Hard water can make your coffee taste bitter, and chlorine can alter the smell and taste. Therefore, for the best flavor, it’s recommended to use soft, clean water with a neutral pH of around 7, and ensure it’s chlorine-free when brewing your coffee.
The mineral content in the water can also affect the taste of your coffee. For instance, magnesium can make it sharper and fruitier, while calcium can make it creamier and heavier. So, the next time you brew, remember, the magic is not just in the beans but also in the water!
Measuring Mastery: Coffee to Water Ratios for the Perfect Brew
Achieving the optimal coffee-to-water ratio is imperative for brewing an excellent cup of Moka Pot coffee. The recommended ratio usually falls somewhere between 1:9 and 1:12 coffee to water ( James Hoffmann has a great series detailing this here). However, this can change depending on your personal taste and the type of beans you’re using.
To get it right, you might want to start with one tablespoon of coarsely ground coffee for every three ounces of water. If you’re using a 4-cup Bialetti Moka Pot, they recommend around 15 to 17 grams of coffee. Remember, the ultimate aim is to achieve a balanced and delicious coffee that suits your taste buds.
Heat Management: Mastering Stovetop Control
Effective heat management on the stovetop is a vital skill for the best Moka Pot brewing. If the Moka Pot gets too hot, the coffee can taste super bitter. It’s better to keep the heat lower to get a more balanced flavor.
The recommended stovetop temperature for making Moka Pot coffee is about 204°F / 95°C, which is like medium heat. Also, preheating the water before adding it to the Moka Pot is a useful tip. This not only speeds up the brewing process but also prevents the coffee grounds from ‘cooking’, which could alter the taste.
Maintaining Your Moka Pot for Optimal Performance
Brewing coffee in a Moka Pot is an art, but maintaining your Moka Pot for optimal performance is no less critical. Regular cleaning and occasional deep cleaning can go a long way in ensuring your Moka Pot brews delicious coffee for years to come, especially when using the right coffee for Moka Pot!
Regular Rinse Routine: Keeping Your Moka Pot Clean
It’s vital to clean your Moka Pot after each use. Regular cleaning prevents the buildup of coffee oils and residues that could alter the taste of your brew. After each brewing session, make sure to remove the grounds and rinse the pot under hot running water.
Keep in mind, good maintenance not only extends the lifespan of your Moka Pot, but it also guarantees the consistent quality of your brew. After all, you don’t want residual coffee oils and grounds from your previous brews messing up the taste of your fresh coffee, do you?
Deep Cleaning Do’s and Don’ts
Apart from the regular rinse, it’s just as important to deep clean your Moka Pot occasionally. During a deep clean, pay special attention to the valve and other components to ensure they are not clogged. You can use warm water, white vinegar, and a soft cloth or sponge for a thorough clean, but avoid using soap or anything harsh.
While cleaning, remember to be gentle with your Moka Pot. Avoid dishwashers or anything rough that could scratch it up. Also, steer clear of acidic stuff like vinegar or lemon juice on aluminum Moka pots to prevent corrosion and damage.
A well-maintained Moka Pot, a classic stovetop coffee maker, not only brews great coffee but also serves you for years, just like a reliable drip coffee maker or a quality espresso machine!
Summary
Brewing the perfect cup of Moka Pot coffee involves much more than just pouring water and coffee into the pot. From selecting the right coffee beans and achieving the perfect grind to mastering the brew ratio and maintaining your Moka Pot, every step matters. The joy of brewing your own coffee lies in the journey – experimenting with different beans, roasts, and grind sizes to find what delights your palate. So, why wait? Embark on your brewing adventure today, and let every cup of Moka Pot coffee be a testament to your brewing prowess!
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of coffee is best for Moka pot?
For your Moka pot, a medium roast (also called light espresso roast) is a great choice to start with. It offers a balanced flavor profile that’s well-suited for this brewing method.
Can you use regular ground coffee in Moka pot?
Yes, you can use regular ground coffee in a Moka pot, but it’s best to use a fine to medium grind specifically designed for stovetop espresso makers to achieve the best flavor and extraction. Cheers!
What is the best drink to make with a Moka pot?
The best drink to make with a Moka pot is a latte or cappuccino, which can be achieved by topping the Moka-brewed coffee with steamed milk. You can also mix the coffee with hot water to make an americano.
What coffee grind is better for Moka or espresso?
For Moka Pot, a coarser grind is better than espresso. Find the right grind to get the best flavor.
How to make coffee on a stove?
To make coffee on a stove, add water and coffee grounds to a saucepan, bring to a boil, then let it sit for a few minutes to allow the grounds to settle. You can use a ratio of water to grounds similar to what you would use in a regular coffee maker.
