Specific Ascaso Dream Settings for Various Coffee Roasts

The Ascaso Dream is a beautiful machine, but its true beauty lies in its ability to produce incredible espresso. This isn't just about pushing buttons; it's about understanding how to tailor the machine to different coffees. This post will guide you through finding the sweet spot for various coffee types with your Ascaso Dream.

Understanding the Variables

The Dream, especially the PID version, offers several adjustable parameters:

• Brew Temperature: Influences extraction rate and flavor clarity.
• Pre-infusion Time: Affects how evenly the coffee puck is saturated.
• Dose: The amount of coffee grounds used.
• Grind Size: Determines how quickly water flows through the coffee.
• Tamping Pressure: Impacts the resistance the water encounters.

General Starting Points

• Brew Temperature: Begin around 200°F (93°C).
• Pre-infusion: Start with a short pre-infusion of 1-2 seconds.

Coffee-Specific Settings

Here's where the fun begins! Let's explore how to adjust your Ascaso Dream for different coffee profiles:

1. Light Roast, Fruity Coffees (e.g., Ethiopian Yirgacheffe)

• Temperature: Slightly higher, around 203-205°F (95-96°C), to extract those delicate floral and fruity notes.
• Pre-infusion: A longer pre-infusion (3-5 seconds) can help with even extraction, as light roasts tend to be less dense.
• Grind: A finer grind may be needed to slow down the flow rate and prevent over-extraction.

2. Medium Roast, Balanced Coffees (e.g., Colombian Supremo)

• Temperature: Stick with the standard 200°F (93°C).
• Pre-infusion: 2-3 seconds should suffice.
• Grind: Adjust to achieve a balanced flavor profile, aiming for a brew time of 25-30 seconds.

3. Dark Roast, Chocolatey Coffees (e.g., Sumatran Mandheling)

• Temperature: Slightly lower, around 195-198°F (90-92°C), to avoid bitterness.
• Pre-infusion: A shorter pre-infusion (1-2 seconds) may be preferred to prevent over-extraction.
• Grind: A coarser grind will help with proper extraction and prevent a choked shot.

Beyond the Basics

• Experiment! Don't be afraid to deviate from these guidelines and find what works best for your palate and specific coffee.
• Taste and Adjust: Pay close attention to the flavor of your espresso. Is it too sour? Grind finer or increase the brew temperature. Too bitter? Grind coarser or lower the temperature.
• Keep Notes: Record your settings for each coffee so you can easily replicate your favorite shots.

The Ascaso Dream's Programmable Features

• Volumetric Dosing: Use this feature to program your desired shot volume for consistency.
• PID Temperature Control: Fine-tune the brew temperature in 1-degree increments for precise control.

By understanding how to adjust your Ascaso Dream's settings and utilizing its programmable features, you can unlock the full potential of your coffee beans and create espresso that truly sings. So, grab your favorite beans, start experimenting, and enjoy the journey to coffee perfection!