What Are Stovetop Espresso Machines?

 Espresso makers come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. There are lever versions that require manual effort, semi-automatic versions that will pull the espresso  but you will need to keep track of the ingredients, and the pump versions (also called automatic versions) will allow you to set the espresso machine and it will go through the whole process on its own. Stove-top espresso machines aren't really in any of these categories.

 A stovetop espresso machine is not technically a machine at all. It doesn't have any moving parts. Instead of pumps and levers, the stove-top versions rely on rising steam for the brewing process. The inside of a stove-top espresso will have a bottom chamber, a middle basket for the coffee, and a built-in carafe. On the outside, these espresso makers tend to resemble the old percolator coffee pots.

 While a stovetop espresso maker is one of the most popular home coffee makers and it is very easy to use, it does not make a true espresso. This is because there is no high pressure involved in the brewing process, only the pressure that is a result of the steam production.

 When you are shopping for  espresso machines that work on your stovetop, you need to keep a few things in mind. Don't buy the aluminum ones because you will have a bad and overpowering flavor added to your espresso. Go for the ones that are made from stainless steel instead. You should also remember that the stove-top espresso machines do not have attachments that provide extras, like frothing, so you will most likely need to purchase something along the lines of a hand held frothing wand. You should also think about how often you will be using your stove-top espresso maker, and how much you will need to make when you do use it. Most stove-top espresso maker models will be available in 2, 4, 6, 10, and 12 cup volumes.

 Cleaning your stove-top espresso machine is quite simple. All of the parts screw together, so all you need to do is unscrew them to access all of the pieces inside. Then, you can use a scratch-free scrubbie sponge and a scratch-free dish brush with warm water and dish liquid to clean the parts. To avoid water spotting and keep your stove-top espresso machine looking shiny and new, simply towel dry when you are finished.

 In addition to any additional things you might want to buy when you choose a stove-top espresso machine, you may also want to pick up a few extra rubber seals. This seal will go in between the top and bottom pieces, usually along the threading. Sometimes they can wear out or crack and cause leaks. Having a few back ups will help take care of this.

 In addition to your espresso, your stove-top espresso maker is also capable of making a couple of other coffee variations. Since the stove-top espresso machine doesn't rely on high powered steam, it is an ideal choice when you would like a creamy cappuccino. You can also combine some warm steamed milk to make a wonderful latte. Once you learn some other coffee-based drinks, you will find that your stove-top espresso machine can do quite a bit for something that isn't mechanical or electric.

Take a look at a few of these incredible deals from the Amazon marketplace for some quality espresso machines.

	Bialetti 6799 Moka Express 3-Cup Stovetop Espresso Maker List Price: $24.99 Sale Price: $24.95 Used From: $22.99 Average Rating:
	Aluminum, stovetop espresso maker produces 3 demitasse cups of rich, authentic Italian espresso in just 4-5 minutes.

	Cuisinox Roma 6-cup Stainless Steel Stovetop Espresso Maker List Price: $88.99 Sale Price: $77.90 Used From: $61.99 Average Rating:
	Cuisinox has created a premium grade stovetop espresso coffeemakers with a distinguished style and hand crafted to the highest possible standards in the industry. Featuring a heavy gauge 18/10 stainless steel construction polished to a mirror finish, induction base, and suitable for all cooking surfaces...

	Bialetti Class 4-Cup Stovetop Espresso Percolator List Price: $54.99 Sale Price: $39.99 Average Rating:
	Stainless steel, stovetop espresso maker produces 4 demitasse cups of rich, authentic Italian espresso in just 4-5 minutes.

	Bialetti Mini Express 2-Cup Stovetop Percolator List Price: $27.99 Sale Price: $26.99 Average Rating:
	Aluminum, stovetop espresso maker produces 2 cup of rich, authentic Italian espresso in just 4-5 minutes.

	BonJour 9 Cup Café Milano Stove Top Espresso Maker, Polished Aluminum List Price: $24.95 Sale Price: $19.95 Average Rating:
	Enjoy espresso the way Italians have for generations with Bonjour's café Milano stovetop espresso maker. Considered the best way to easily brew rich and flavorful espresso. Features a whimsical coffee bean knob...