How to Make Moka Pot Coffee

What Is a Moka Pot? A Time-Tested Way to Make Espresso-Style Coffee

A compact, Italian-made eight-sided wonder, the moka pot delivers rich, espresso-style coffee without the need for a large, expensive, or high-maintenance machine. But what is a moka pot, exactly? Invented in 1933 by Italian engineer Alfonso Bialetti, this elegant three-chambered stovetop brewer relies on steam pressure from the bottom chamber, forcing water up through the coffee grounds and into the top chamber. Its simplicity and consistency make it a favorite in homes around the world.

If you’re new to moka pots, learning how to use a moka pot properly ensures the best flavor. We also suggest brewing a couple of coffees to season the pot before making one to drink.


Brew Time: 3-6 minutes

Grind Size: Fine

Coffee Dose: 20-22 g

Water Amount: 345 g

Bialetti Moka Pot Brew Guide

1. Grind and Weigh Your Coffee
For a 6-cup moka pot, grind about 20–22 g of coffee. The grind should be finer than for a pour over but not as fine as espresso — roughly the size of granulated sugar.

This grind works perfectly for moka pot brewing, ensuring balanced extraction.
2. Add Water
Fill the bottom chamber with water up to the safety valve (approximately 345 g). Place the funnel, which holds the coffee grounds, into the pot. If any water enters the funnel, pour it out and replace the funnel. Tip: Starting with hot water can speed up the brewing process.
3. Add Your Coffee
Fill the funnel with your measured coffee, level it gently, and wipe the rim clean. Unlike an espresso machine, you do not tamp the grounds.
This moka pot-specific method ensure your coffee brews evenly.
4. Close the Moka Pot
Screw the top chamber on tightly to prevent leaks and maximize pressure.
5. Place on Stove
Place the moka pot over medium heat. On a gas stove, keep the flame smaller than the base so the handle isn’t exposed to heat.
6. Bring to Boil
As the water heats, pressure forces the coffee into the upper chamber. You’ll know it’s nearly finished when you hear a hissing or gurgling sound. Immediately remove the moka pot from the heat and let the remaining coffee flow into the top chamber.
7. Enjoy Your Coffee
Use caution and a potholder to pour your coffee into a cup. Following these moka pot instructions yields rich, espresso-style coffee that’s perfect for morning rituals or after-dinner treats.
8. Care Instructions
To clean your moka pot, wait until it’s cool enough to handle, then unscrew the spouted top and remove the rubber gasket and filter plate above the funnel. Rinse all parts thoroughly with warm water — avoid soap, which can leave a soapy taste. For stubborn coffee oils, use a coffee-specific cleaner like Cafiza to remove residue without affecting flavor. Reassemble the pot carefully, ensuring all parts are properly seated for your next brew.