Hey there, coffee enthusiasts! Noah Nighswonger here—full-time barista in New York City and part-time coffee reviewer.
Today, we’re talking about tamping. Don’t worry, it’s not as mysterious as it sounds, and I’m here to guide you through every detail.
Tamping: The Basics
Tamping is the simple yet essential act of compressing finely ground coffee held within a portafilter. It may seem like a small step, but it plays a significant role in making that perfect espresso shot.
Finding the Right Pressure
So, how much pressure should you apply when tamping? You’ll hear different opinions, but here’s my rule of thumb: press until the tamper isn’t going any further. That’s when the grounds are fully compressed, and further pressure won’t do much. Some folks mention 20-30 lbs of pressure as ideal, but just listen to the coffee—it’ll “push back” when it’s ready.
The Importance of Form and Consistency
When it comes to tamping, good form is key. Trust me—I’ve been a barista for three years, and my wrist can feel the difference. Tamping should be enjoyable and sustainable, whether you’re a home barista or a pro.
Step-by-Step Guide to Tamping
- Distribution: Evenly distribute the coffee in the portafilter.
- Proper Form: Hold the tamper with a straight wrist and 90-degree elbow angle.
- Apply Pressure: Press down until the coffee grounds are fully compressed.
- Check for Level: Ensure the surface of the coffee is uniform.
- Pull Shot & Evaluate: Start pulling your shot and evaluate the results.
Dos and Don’ts
- Do: Practice good form from the start and ask experienced baristas for help.
- Don’t: Avoid second tamps, polishing, and nutation.
The Right Tools: Comparing different tampers:
| Type of Tamper | Description | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Precision Tamp | Adjustable depth, evenly distributes pressure | Consistent results, adjustable depth | More expensive |
| Palm Tamp | Allows for pressure application using the palm | Reduces wrist strain, ergonomic | Less traditional |
| Old-School Tamp | Classic tamper with a handle | Traditional feel, wide variety | May cause wrist strain if used incorrectly |
And that’s a wrap on tamping! With these tips, you’re on your way to pulling fantastic espresso shots. Happy brewing!
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase using these links. Remember to support us by purchasing through the Amazon/Walmart/Impact Radius links provided. Last update on 2025-05-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Disclosure: No compensation or free products were received in exchange for writing this review.
Editorial Staff
The editorial staff at Crazy Coffee Crave is a team of coffee enthusiasts & Baristas who enjoy the one thing we all think about as soon as we get up in the morning. Trusted by thousands of readers worldwide.
