Ask Spence - Part Deux

[spence]

Originally Posted by JohnnyD

When you apply your shaving lather, do you use a shaving brush? If so, do you think a badger hair brush is really worth all that extra cost?

I actually use an electric as a blade gives me terrible razor bumps. But some cremes can be applied equally by hand or brush.

If you're going to use a brush I'd make sure it was a damn good one, just in case you get caught.

Part Deux: Do you make espressos at home and if so, how do you avoid the espresso from turning slightly bitter while the milk steams?

First off, espresso is espresso, there's no milk in it.

Now assuming you intend to make a cappuccino, latte, or other milk based drink...the espresso shouldn't turn bitter that fast once the shot has been pulled. If it does, I'd wager it's coming bitter off the pour...

Fess up, are you establishing a nice thick crema or is the espresso thin and lifeless?

Try a finer grind and make sure your pack is tight an even. If you don't have an air conditioner be sure to compensate for the humidity.

All of this assumes you have top quality equipment of course. If not, throw it all away and get a cup of joe at the corner store. You're not ready to make espresso at home.

-spence