Find out why you shouldn’t make a mound of coffee in your moka pot: a common mistake that ruins aroma and functionality. Here’s the correct method.
Making coffee with a moka pot is a daily ritual for millions of Italians. It’s a gesture that evokes a sense of home and tradition. But there’s a very common mistake that many continue to make: creating the famous « mound » of coffee in the filter . A seemingly harmless habit, but one that can actually compromise the taste, safety, and functionality of the moka pot.
What does “little mountain” mean?
When filling the moka pot filter, many people tend to pour the ground coffee in a dome shape, creating a sort of mound in the center. They then often compact the ground coffee slightly with a spoon, believing this makes the coffee more full-bodied and intense.
Why is this a mistake?
The truth is that this practice is discouraged by experts and manufacturers . Here are the main reasons:
1. Risk of clogging
Creating a mound and tamping the coffee prevents the water from flowing properly. This can cause increased pressure inside the moka pot, leading to:
- lateral leaks of steam or liquid
- damaged gasket
- coffee maker that “spits” or gets stuck
