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I need recommendations for a new espresso machine.?

When I started drinking espresso, I tried my hand making it at home. Not sure if it would take, I bought the Mr. Coffee ECM20 which was economical, and I must admit it was good when it wasn't spewing steam out the top or one of the parts wasn't broken. It's time for a new machine. (I've spent more on replacement parts than I did on the machine.) I'm looking for something that is still economical and fairly easy to maintain. Thanks.

Answer
Have you ever considered the stove top version? I bought mine in Germany for like $15. Almost no maintenance required. I would also buy hand frother. Depends on your price range, but I would seriously consider just the old fashion stove top. -Angela http://www.espressogifts.com

If I buy a $30-$40 espresso machine, will I be compromising on quality?

I want to buy one of my good friends an espresso machine for Christmas, but I don't have a whole lot of money to spend. If I buy a $30-$40 model, will I be severely compromising on quality? How good are these machines? Here's some of the machines I'm looking at: http://www.amazon.com/Mr-Coffee-ECM20-Steam-Espresso/dp/B0002L34KK http://www.overstock.com/Home-Garden/Kalorik-Black-4-cup-Espresso-Maker/3476774/product.html?cid=123620&fp=F&ci_src=14110944&ci_sku=11544752 http://www.edigitalelectronics.com/product_info.php?products_id=23747 http://www.electotronics.com/delonghiec5steamdrivenespressocappuccinomaker.aspx http://www.amazon.com/Farberware-FES15B-Pump-Driven-Espresso-Machine/dp/B000PKYK4W http://www.overstock.com/Home-Garden/Kalorik-Black-4-cup-Espresso-Maker/3476774/product.html?cid=123620&fp=F&ci_src=14110944&ci_sku=11544752

Answer
Well, they might (emphasis on 'might') produce decent coffee, but they won't make espresso. If you're on a budget (who isn't) get one of these to make real espresso with the signature crema: http://www.amazon.com/Bialetti-Brikka-Stove-Espresso-Maker/dp/B00066N8E8/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=home-garden&qid=1260057595&sr=8-2 http://www.amazon.com/Bialetti-Brikka-Stovetop-Espresso-Maker/dp/B000HCNRVU/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=home-garden&qid=1260057688&sr=8-3 Or, if you really have to stay under $40, this one makes a good espresso, but without crema: http://www.amazon.com/Bialetti-Express-6-Cup-Stovetop-Percolator/dp/B000CNY6UK/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&s=home-garden&qid=1260057778&sr=8-4 From the descriptions on your links, these three will probably produce more pressure than any machine in your budget. I use a moka pot almost daily & it's delicious.

Making a Caramel Macchiato?

I want to know exactly how to make a caramel macchiato. I have a Mr. Coffee Espresso/Cappuccino maker, model ECM20, that I have never used and an addiction to caramel macchiotos.

Answer
Maybe this will help you: Caramel Macchiato Recipe #59458 If you've got an espresso/cappuccino machine you're well on your way to recreating a top-choice Starbucks coffee drink. For the caramel part, you can use any caramel sauce that you find in the grocery store near the ice cream toppings. Pick your favorite. Just note that to make this recipe work best you'll only need 3 tablespoons of a richer caramel sauce (like the stuff Starbucks uses), but more like 4 tablespoons of a lighter sauce (such as fat-free Smuckers). For the vanilla syrup you can use the bottled syrups, such as those made by Torani, or just whip up a your own clone from scratch. By the way, if you want to make this clone super accurate, pick up bottles of the authentic vanilla syrup and caramel sauce sold in Starbucks stores. vanilla syrup 2 cups water 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract coffee 1/2 cup fresh espresso 8 ounces milk, steamed with foam 3-4 tablespoons caramel sauce You can use vanilla syrup from a bottle for the drink or make your own vanilla syrup following this Top Secret Recipe: Simply combine 2 cups water and 1 1/2 cups sugar in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, then add 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract. Remove from heat and cool. Store in a covered container. To make your coffee drink, add two tablespoon of vanilla syrup to a 16-ounce glass. Add 1/2 cup fresh brewed espresso followed by 8 ounces of steamed milk. Add 3 to 4 tablespoons caramel sauce to the drink. Stir before drinking.

I need recommendations for a new espresso machine.?

When I started drinking espresso, I tried my hand making it at home. Not sure if it would take, I bought the Mr. Coffee ECM20 which was economical, and I must admit it was good when it wasn't spewing steam out the top or one of the parts wasn't broken. It's time for a new machine. (I've spent more on replacement parts than I did on the machine.) I'm looking for something that is still economical and fairly easy to maintain. Thanks.

Answer
I've been very happy with my Francis! Francis! X1. It is easy to clean and has good attachments. Keep an eye out for them at Horschow Finale or eBay. (Got my for ~$220.) Buying espresso pods from podmerchant.com is handy, too. Try the sampler bag. Good luck!