It all started in Italy almost 100 years ago, but the Moka Pot has found its ways into the hearts and kitchens of coffee lovers around the world. And in that time, the design has virtually not changed. You get flavor approaching that of espresso from a simple pot that can be used at home, while traveling, or even in the great outdoors. There is no need for electricity, just a sufficient heat source. Its a simple, beautiful way to make coffee that many people prefer.
Pick the Best Moka Pot for Your Home:
Highly Rated Models for 2020
Model
Quick Description
| Bialetti Moka Express Stovetop Espresso Maker | The Original Moka Pot |
| Delonghi Alicia Electric Moka Espresso Coffee Maker | The Moka Process Done For You |
| GROSCHE Milano Moka Stovetop Espresso Maker | Coffee with a Conscience |
| Cuisinox Roma Espresso Coffeemaker | Premium Quality + 25 Year Warranty |
Moka Pot Basics
Moka pots also go by the name ‘Stovetop Espresso Makers’. They use a similar process as espresso makers and produce a strong espresso-like coffee. There are minor differences, though, so that technically it is not true espresso according to accepted standards. Even so, it’s close enough that many people favor the taste, simple preparation and use it as a base for espresso-based drinks like cappuccino and latte.
The first moka pot was patented in Italy in the 1930s, and modern designs have not changed much because it works so well. Water at the bottom of the pot is heated until the steam pressure forces it up through coffee grounds which are held in the middle of the pot. The brew then continues to climb and is captured in a reservoir at the top of the pot. This method requires a bit of practice, but is simple and can produce excellent coffee.
Tips for Best Results
-
Start with the best quality water possible. If you don’t have filtered water, consider a
built-in filter or something like a Brita water pitcher or ZeroWater pitcher. - Heat your water before adding it to the pot. Bring it to a boil then pour into the pot.
- Use coffee grinds about the size of table salt and don’t tamp them down. Too coarse grinds will cause the coffee to come out in a burst, and too fine grinds will make it difficult for the water to pass through.
- Set your stovetop heat source to medium. You want the coffee to be pushed up to the top slowly and consistently.
- CAUTION: You are working with heat and pressure, so be cautious and pay close attention for safety.
Buyer's Checklist
- Stovetop or Electric - Be sure a stovetop pot will work on the heat source you have (gas, electric, induction). Or, consider an electric pot which provides its own heating system.
- Aluminum or Stainless - Both work well. Aluminum, the traditional material for a moka pot, is more common and can be less expensive. But there are some health concerns about cooking with aluminum. Stainless steel is easier to maintain and distributes heat more evenly.
- Capacity - Moka pots are designed to brew a specific amount, not less. Consider buying the smallest capacity that will suit you, to give yourself the flexibility of brewing smaller or larger amounts.
Bialetti Moka Express Stovetop Espresso Maker
The Original Moka Pot
The very first Moka Pot was patented by Alfonso Bialetti in Italy in 1933, and revolutionized how coffee is made. The original 8-sided design is so effective that it has not been changed. It is said that a Bialetti can be found in the vast majority of Italian households. No wonder it’s considered worldwide to be the very definition of a stovetop espresso maker.
✓ Available in several sizes and colors
✓ Made of high quality polished aluminum
✓ Patented safety valve releases excess pressure
✓ Must be hand-washed
✓ Easy to take apart and put together
Delonghi Alicia Electric Moka Espresso Coffee Maker
The Moka Process Done For You
This is an innovate machine that enjoys high customer praise for flavor and convenience. It’s really the best of both worlds: technology meets traditional coffee making.
The Alicia is made with a sturdy aluminum boiler for everyday use. To get started, the on-off switch is illuminated to let you know at a glance whether the pot is turned on. As the coffee brews, you can watch the progress in the see-through coffee container. And if you become distracted, don’t worry about the pot overheating. The boiler will shut itself off automatically, then go into warming mode. To serve, simply remove the pot from the base for pouring, and the base will turn off.
With these helpful features, you’ll be brewing moka automatically and easily, with peace of mind.
✓ Make 3 cups or 6 cups
✓ Safety automatic shut-off
✓ 30 minute keep warm function
GROSCHE Milano Moka Stovetop Espresso Coffee Maker
Coffee With A Conscience
Grosche is a young company that has become known for both the quality of its products and its mission to help those in need. This eye-catching pot makes the short list of well-made classically designed moka pots known for the flavor they produce.
The Milano model is made from aluminum with a non-toxic silicon gasket seal. As you brew the coffee, the unique protective handle helps keep your hand clear of the heated pot, and the safety valve keeps internal pressure in check.
Each sale of a GROSCHE product funds their Safe Water Project and provides 50+ days of safe drinking water to communities in need.
✓ Available in multiple sizes
✓ Choose from black or silver finish
✓ Specially designed handle to protect from heat
✓ Designed for gas and electric (not induction)
Cuisinox Roma Espresso Coffeemaker
Premium Quality + 25 Year Warranty
Cuisinox crafts its premium quality Roma model in heavy gauge 18/10 stainless steel with a mirror finish. They are so confident in their workmanship that it comes with a generous 25 year warranty.
It is designed to work on all cooking surfaces, and has a convection base. Note that the different sizes are based on 1.5 ounce “cups”.
✓ Available in several sizes
✓ Hand wash only
✓ One extra gasket & reducer included
