The STARESSO Portable Espresso Maker is pretty cool if you're a fan of espresso and need something that works anywhere, even without electricity. It's designed to be flexible—according to the manufacturer's product description, you can use both ground coffee and coffee capsules, like Nespresso pods.
So, if you like switching between freshly ground beans and the convenience of pods, this has you covered.
Using Nespresso pods with this little machine is usually pretty straightforward. It comes with an adapter where you pop in your pod. But here's a tip: make sure the pod is properly pierced. Apparently, it helps with water flow and makes a big difference in extracting a good espresso shot.
According to our research, not piercing the pod completely can mess with the water flow, and you'll end up with a weaker brew. So, just to be safe, carefully puncture the pod before brewing.
Another handy tip from our research is to preheat the machine and your cup before you start brewing. This can really make your espresso taste better and stay warm longer. People who try this say it often results in a richer and more consistent cup of coffee.
Cleanup is a breeze with Nespresso pods! Once you're done, you can just eject the used pod, and there's hardly any mess to deal with. This is especially great when you're traveling or just need something quick and easy.
It might take a little practice to get the hang of using a manual espresso maker like this, especially if it's your first time. But once you do, it's super rewarding.
All in all, if you like the idea of having an espresso maker that can handle Nespresso pods and don't want it tied to a power outlet, the STARESSO is worth considering.
