Bialetti Moka Pots Cooking Help and Tips

So you've decided to buy a Bialetti percolator. But which model should you choose now? We are happy to help you search.

1. Aluminum or Stainless Steel

The first choice you will have to make is the choice of material. There are two different materials and both options have advantages and disadvantages. Ultimately, this will be a personal preference. We have briefly outlined these advantages and disadvantages for you here.

2. Induction or gas

Do you have a gas or ceramic stove? Then all of Bialetti's pots will work. Do you work with induction? Then the classic aluminum pots will not work. The stainless steel decorator fortunately does but should you really want an aluminum pot Bialetti has the Moka Induction. This is a stainless steel base with an aluminum top that works on induction. Another option is an induction plate from Bialetti or Ilsa. This is a steel magntic plate that you place between the pot and the stove.

3. What size

The size is one of the most important choices. Moka pots are made to work well only for the number of cups it is made for. That means you cannot brew 2-cups in a 4-cup cup. Not enough pressure will be built up and the coffee will boil too long and taste bitter as a result. So choose the number of cups you will take the most.

How many cups

As indicated, each size is designed exactly for the number of cups. The cups are based on espresso sizes which amounts to about 60 ml. Of course, as Dutch people, we are used to larger cups so we recommend doing the number of cups times 2.

Do you often drink 1 cup of coffee? Then buy at least a 2-cup Bialetti. The most commonly sold sizes are 4 and 6-cup.

4. Which grind

Bialetti therefore recommends medium coarse coffee grind. This is easy to make yourself by grinding coffee beans with a coffee grinder. Want to make it as easy as possible? Then buy Bialetti's coffee, which has the perfect grind.

5. Bialetti Spare Parts.

Never just throw away a moka pot, you can easily give them a second life by replacing a few parts. For example, the ring should be replaced regularly so that the pressure in the pot remains good. But the filter bowl, valve and handle can also be bought separately.

6. Percolator Use Tips

Do not push

Once you have filled the funnel with coffee, all you need to do is smooth it down. Do not push it (as with an espresso machine), as this will prevent the pot from pressurizing properly.

Heating at low temperature

These jars are made to be set at a low temperature. So turn on your stove at 30% of power and let it heat up gently. Remove it from the heat source as soon as you hear the pot bubbling.

Do not knock it out

Have you brewed coffee and want to remove the residue from the filter? Then don't knock it out against the trash can. This can deform the filter, preventing the pressure from building up sufficiently. Use a spoon to scoop it out or blow it out by pointing the funnel down and blowing into the steel tube.

Do not wash an aluminum jar with soap

An aluminum jar acquires its own protective layer (patina) with use. This layer protects it from rust and reduces the "metallic taste." Rinsing with water and drying after use is enough to clean the jar.

Hopefully these tips will help you make a choice !
See the complete range of Bialetti here.