The Step-by-Step Guide to Making Perfect Coffee With Your Stove Top Moka Pot

Here’s a step-by-step guide to making perfect coffee with a moka pot.

This method is simple but requires attention to detail to ensure rich, balanced coffee without bitterness.  This is the classic way you will see this made in most Italian homes. 

This is the way my Nonna made it…

What You’ll Need

  • Moka pot (of your preferred size)

  • Freshly ground coffee (medium-fine grind) Use the Drive Medium Roast Organic Espresso or the East Village Dark Roast Espresso if you want a little more robust hit of flavour.

  • Water (filtered, if possible)

  • Heat source (stovetop or electric)

  • Towel or oven mitt (optional for safety)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Fill the Base Chamber with Water

  • Remove the top part of the moka pot and the filter funnel.

  • Fill the base chamber with water up to the safety valve (do not cover the valve). Overfilling can cause too much pressure, while underfilling may produce weak coffee.

  • Use hot water (just below boiling) if you want to prevent the coffee from over-extracting while the pot heats up.

Tip: If you use cold water, keep a close eye to avoid over-extraction.

2. Add Coffee to the Filter Funnel

  • Fill the filter funnel with medium-fine ground coffee. (It should be finer than drip coffee but coarser than espresso.)

  • Level the coffee by shaking the funnel gently or using the back of a spoon, but do not tamp the coffee (tamping requires a machine capable of higher pressure than a moka can deliver.)

  • Place the filter funnel back into the base chamber.

3. Assemble the Moka Pot

  • Screw the top part of the moka pot onto the base. Ensure it’s tightly sealed to prevent steam from escaping during brewing.

  • Be careful not to over-tighten, as it can damage the threads over time.

4. Heat Over Medium Heat

  • Place the moka pot on the stovetop over medium heat.

  • Do not use high heat, as this can cause the coffee to brew too quickly and taste burnt.

  • Leave the lid open if you want to monitor the process closely.

5. Wait for the Coffee to Brew

  • As the water heats, steam pressure will force it through the coffee grounds and up into the upper chamber.

  • You’ll hear a bubbling or hissing sound as the coffee begins to fill the top.

  • Once the flow slows down and you hear a gurgling sound, remove the moka pot from heat immediately.

6. Cool the Base (Optional)

  • To prevent over-extraction, you can cool the base quickly by running it under cold water or placing it on a damp towel.

  • This halts the brewing process and prevents the coffee from turning bitter.

7. Pour and Enjoy

  • Pour your coffee immediately into your cup(s). The coffee should be dark, rich, and strong.

  • Add sugar or milk if desired, though many moka pot purists drink it black.

Optional Tips for Perfect Moka Pot Coffee

  • Use Freshly Ground Coffee: The fresher the coffee, the better the flavor.

  • Grind Size: Ensure a medium-fine grind. Too fine can clog the filter, while too coarse will make the coffee weak.

  • Clean the Pot Regularly: Rinse the moka pot with warm water after each use. Avoid soap, as it can leave a residue that affects the flavor.

  • Avoid Overheating: Keeping the heat low to medium ensures even extraction and prevents bitterness.

With these steps, you’ll make a delicious cup of moka coffee that’s rich, bold, and similar to espresso!

No matter how you make your espresso at home, do not scrimp on the coffee you choose.  Espresso type roasts like our Medium Roast The Drive Espresso or our Dark Roast The East Village Espresso – both by East Vancouver’s Commercial Drive Coffee Company – are great options for you to consider!

100% Canadian Owned and Operated. Coffee roasted and packaged in Canada.

Kenny Vannucci