Is moka pot coffee the same as espresso?

Not exactly. A moka pot makes strong, concentrated coffee, but it doesn’t reach the same pressure as an espresso machine. It’s espresso-style and works well for drinks like lattes.

Should I tamp coffee in a moka pot?

No. Don’t tamp. Fill the basket with medium-fine grounds, level gently, and leave the coffee untamped so water can flow properly and the brew doesn’t become bitter.

What grind size should I use for a moka pot?

Use a medium-fine grind—finer than drip coffee but not as fine as espresso. If the coffee tastes bitter or flows too slowly, go slightly coarser.

Can I use a moka pot on an electric stove?

Yes. Most moka pots work on electric stovetops. Use medium-low heat and keep the pot centered on the burner for even brewing.

How to Use a Moka Pot: Step-by-Step with Pictures (Beginner-Friendly Guide)

December 28, 2025

Want rich, espresso-style coffee at home without an espresso machine? A moka pot (also called a stovetop espresso maker) is one of the easiest ways to brew bold, concentrated coffee in just a few minutes.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to use a moka pot step-by-step with photos, plus tips to avoid bitterness and get the best flavour every time.

If you’re looking for a durable, reliable moka pot, check out the MILANO Stovetop Espresso Maker (Moka Pot) – 6 Cup by Grosche.

Quick Steps: How a Moka Pot Works

Gather your tools.
Preheat your water (optional but recommended).
Fill the base with water (below the safety valve).
Fill the basket with coffee (do not tamp).
Screw the pot together firmly.
Heat on medium-low until coffee rises into the top chamber.
Remove from heat when it starts to gurgle.
Serve immediately.

What You Need to Brew with a Moka Pot

Moka pot (e.g., 6-cup size)
Fresh coffee (whole beans preferred)
Grinder (burr grinder for best consistency)
Kettle (optional, for preheating water)
Stovetop (gas or electric)

Best grind size: medium-fine (finer than drip, coarser than espresso). Too fine can cause bitterness and slow flow.

Step-by-Step: How to Use a Moka Pot (with Pictures)

Step 1: Gather Your Tools

Set up your moka pot, coffee, grinder, and kettle (optional). Starting organized makes the process quick and consistent.

Gather your moka pot, coffee, and brewing tools before you start.

Step 2: Preheat Your Water (Optional but Recommended)

Preheating water can help reduce a “metallic” taste and prevents the coffee from sitting on heat too long while the base warms up.

Preheat water to speed up brewing and improve flavour.

Step 3: Fill the Base with Water (Below the Safety Valve)

Unscrew the moka pot and pour water into the bottom chamber. Stop just below the safety valve—never cover it.

Fill the base with water up to (but not above) the safety valve.

Step 4: Add Coffee Grounds (Do Not Tamp)

Fill the filter basket with medium-fine coffee grounds. Level it gently with your finger or a spoon—do not tamp, or the pot can over-extract and taste bitter.

Fill the basket and level gently—avoid tamping.

Step 5: Screw the Moka Pot Together Firmly

Insert the filled basket into the base, then screw the top chamber on firmly. A tight seal helps the moka pot build proper pressure.

Assemble the moka pot firmly so it seals properly.

Step 6: Heat on Medium-Low

Place the moka pot on the stove over medium-low heat. Keep the flame under the base (not licking up the sides), and open the lid if you want to watch the flow.

Use medium-low heat for smoother extraction and less bitterness.

Step 7: Watch for the “Gurgle” and Remove from Heat

When you hear a bubbling or gurgling sound, the brew is almost done. Remove the pot from heat right away to avoid a burnt taste.

The bubbling “gurgle” means it’s time to remove the pot from heat.

Step 8: Serve Immediately and Enjoy

Pour your moka pot coffee into cups right away. Enjoy it straight, or use it as a base for lattes, cappuccinos, iced coffee, or coffee cocktails.

Serve right away for the best flavour and aroma.

Troubleshooting: Common Moka Pot Problems (and Fixes)

My moka pot coffee tastes bitter

Lower the heat (medium-low is best).
Use a slightly coarser grind.
Remove from heat as soon as it gurgles.
Avoid tamping the grounds.

Coffee comes out too weak

Use fresher coffee (or grind just before brewing).
Try a slightly finer grind (still not espresso-fine).
Ensure the basket is filled level to the top (no gaps).

Nothing is coming out / it’s sputtering

Check that the top is screwed on tightly.
Make sure the gasket and filter plate are seated correctly.
Don’t overfill water past the safety valve.
Don’t use an ultra-fine grind or tamp the grounds.

How to Clean a Moka Pot (So It Lasts)

For best taste, rinse your moka pot with warm water after each use and dry it fully before storing.

Avoid soap if possible (it can cling to aluminum and affect flavour).
Do not put it in the dishwasher unless the manufacturer explicitly says it’s safe.
Check the gasket periodically and replace it if it becomes cracked or loose.

Recommended Moka Pot: MILANO Stovetop Espresso Maker (6 Cup)

If you’re ready to brew at home, the Grosche MILANO Moka Pot – 6 Cup is a great everyday option for bold, espresso-style coffee on the stovetop.