Espresso Outside - The GSI Outdoors Espresso Maker
GSI Espresso Maker in Action. A Jet Boil camp stove is being used to cook the brew.
Last weekend I had a fantastic opportunity to test and really use the 4-cup GSI Expresso Espresso Maker from GSI Outdoors. I’ve been using this in the house as a stovetop espresso maker and have been very happy with the quality of espresso it makes.
But last weekend was the first time I was able to give it a good field test.
The items used in conjuction with the GSI Expresso (they do call it an “EXPRESSO” maker officially) maker were:
1. My trusty Jet Boil Stove
2. French Kiss coffee. I ground the coffee at home before I left with a Baratza Virtuoso grinder.
Overall Opinion:
In general, I’ve always been a fan of this little unit. As mentioned before, I was aware it worked will as a stovetop espresso maker. For the price of about $28, you’ve got all you need for good espresso. That price is MUCH more attractive than the everyday espresso makers on the market.
In the field, it worked just as well as it does at home. My packable camp stove was plenty enough to heat the unit rather quickly. I did however, have to keep my flame on full power - but it only took about 5 minutes to brew.
The base of this unit is sized perfectly to sit stable on most camp stoves, which is a nice plus.
As much as I like this espresso maker, there in one thing that I think can be improved upon. At least, one thing that keeps the Expresso maker from being “Perfect.”
I find that when the espresso is brewed, the enamelware cup gets pretty hot. The green cup (pictured) comes with the espresso maker. As it sits on the stove, the heat from the base of the stove transfers to the cup. Once your brew is done, the handle is pretty toasty. It takes a few minutes before you can hold it - but a lot longer to be able to drink from!
I usually make an Americano (mixing coffee and espresso together). So the heat from the cup isn’t that big of a factor for me. I just pour my espresso into my cup of coffee.
Overall, I think the GSI Expresso Maker is a fantastic unit. A good deal for the price. You can use it at home OR on the trail. I really enjoyed having espresso during a camp trip!
SUMMARY:
The Good:
1. Small unit is easy to pack and doesn’t take up much space.
2. Relatively easy to clean in the field.
3. Not limited to camping, this unit can be used as a home stove-top espresso maker.
4. Quick brewing time.
5. Fits securely on a small packing stove.
6. Nice price point.
The Bad:
1. Included cup is hot when espresso is brewed. But even this isn’t THAT much of a negative.
More Information:
For more information on the GSI Expresso Maker, visit the following web pages:
1. BuzzMug.com
2. GSI Outdoors
FEEDBACK?
If you have any feedback on this unit, please leave a comment to this post!
[...] Espresso Outside - The GSI Outdoors Espresso Maker [...]
[...] Go to the author’s original blog: GSI Outdoors Expresso Espresso Maker | BuzzMug.com Coffee Blog [...]
[...] GSI Outdoors Expresso Espresso Maker | BuzzMug.com Coffee Blog [...]
Neat! OK, now can you tell me where I can get an “outdoor roaster”? To heck with Starbucks! I want to be like the little cafe on my street that roasts their own! If you live in RI, check ou TLC Coffee Roasters. But does anyone know if I can roast my own beans in a simple frying pan?
Haha…that is awesome! I love it oh and to the guy above “Bill”, let me know if you ever find that outdoor roaster!
Well, this is my primary check out for your webpage! We’re a group of volunteers and commencing a brand new initiative in a community in the identical niche. Your weblog offered us useful data to work on. You have done a marvellous occupation!