The percolator and the moka pot are two popular brewing methods that have been used for decades. Both methods work by forcing hot water under pressure through ground coffee, but they differ in their function and results.
A percolator is a coffee machine that repeatedly circulates water through the coffee, while a moka pot (also called an espresso pot) is a compact appliance that makes coffee in a single pass. But what exactly are the differences between the two, and how do they affect the taste of your coffee?
The differences between a percolator and a moka pot
The differences between a percolator and a moka pot lie in their operation, the flavor of the coffee, and maintenance. We explain these differences below.
Operation
One of the biggest differences between a percolator and a moka pot lies in the way they brew coffee. A percolator works by heating water from below and then generating steam that's forced up through a tube. The water rises, drips through the coffee filter, and then flows back into the water chamber. This process repeats several times, constantly passing the water through the coffee.
The moka pot, on the other hand, uses steam pressure to force water through the ground coffee all at once. The water is in the bottom chamber, the coffee is in the middle, and the coffee enters the top chamber once the water has been forced through the coffee. The process is much more direct and ends once all the water has passed through the coffee.
Taste of the coffee
The difference in brewing methods significantly impacts the coffee's flavor. A percolator often produces a stronger, bitter flavor. This is because the water passes through the coffee multiple times, resulting in a strong extraction. Some people appreciate this deep, rich flavor, while others find it too bitter.
A moka pot produces a coffee that tastes closer to espresso, but with less pressure than a professional espresso machine. Coffee from a moka pot is rich and full-bodied, yet less bitter than that from a percolator. It's a good compromise for those who prefer a strong, but not overly bitter, coffee.
Use and maintenance
A percolator is often larger and is typically used for brewing larger quantities of coffee. The appliance can be a bit more difficult to maintain, as there are more parts to clean.
A moka pot is easier to use and maintain. It's more compact and is often used for making smaller quantities of coffee, ideal for one or two people.
Conclusion
Do you prefer a percolator or a moka pot? That depends on your taste preferences and how much coffee you want to make. Here's a quick summary of the differences:
- If you like strong, full-bodied and sometimes slightly bitter coffee and often make coffee for several people, a percolator is a good choice.
- For those who love an espresso-like taste and want a compact and easy-to-use appliance, the moka pot is ideal.
Do your research, determine the coffee flavor you want to enjoy, and visit one of our branches to purchase your brewing method and coffee beans.