How to improve my Philips Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine’s coffee

Whether you opt for fresh beans or pre-ground coffee, achieving the perfect brew is all about using the correct grind size. If the coffee is ground too fine, it can lead to bitter or burnt flavors, as well as longer brewing times and higher pressure. On the other hand, if the grind is too coarse, the coffee may taste watery and bitter due to under-extraction, low pressure, and shorter brewing times.

With the Philips Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine with an integrated grinder, you can grind the beans to a finer coarse grind. You can choose from 15 different grind settings, with lower numbers indicating finer grounds, resulting in a stronger coffee taste.

Read to the end of the article for our Extraction guide table.

Two of the most important parts of making a great coffee with your machine are the tamping and dosing of the pre-ground coffee.

If you use excessive force and coffee grounds, your coffee can become over-extracted, leading to a burnt or bitter taste. Conversely, if you use too little force and coffee grounds, your coffee can become under-extracted, resulting in a weak and bitter taste. It's important to find the right balance to achieve the perfect cup of coffee.

We suggest using the appropriate amount of coffee for 1 or 2 cups and not exceeding the "MAX" line in the basket filter after tamping. The ideal dose is when the tamped coffee is less than or equal to 1mm below the "MAX" line (see Fig. 1). Apply enough pressure so that the top edge of the tamper's metal cap is level with the top of the portafilter holder (see Fig. 2).
 

Correct Extraction (within the Espresso Range)

• Flow starts after a few seconds.
• Slow flow, like warm honey.
• Crema is golden brown with a fine mousse texture.
• Espresso is dark brown.
• Extraction takes 20-30 seconds.

• Flow is fast like water.
• Crema is thin and pale.
• Espresso is pale brown.
• Tastes sour/sharp, weak, and watery.
• Extraction takes less than 20 secs.

• Flow drips or not at all.
• Crema is dark and spotty.
• Espresso is very dark brown.
• Tastes bitter and burnt.
• Extraction takes more than 40 seconds.