Month: February 2025

With nearly a century of history and millions of units sold worldwide, the Moka Pot is a defining symbol of Italian coffee culture and a staple in Portuguese kitchens.

We decided it was time to dedicate one of our articles to the Moka Pot. In this piece, we’ll dive into its history and share a few simple tips to help you improve your brew.

Considering that this brewing methot is meant to be quick, easy, and efficient, we promise to keep things practical—no overly complicated tricks. Let’s see what you think!

 

The History of the Moka Pot

Created in the 1930s in Italy by Alfonso Bialetti, the Moka Pot quickly an icon of both coffee and design. Its name pays homage to Mocha, the Yemeni city that was once the main exporter of coffee to Europe, and its shape was inspired by an old-school washing machine.

With its bold octagonal form, polished aluminum body, and focus on functionality, the design reflects Futurism’s fascination with modernity. Like the movement itself, the Moka Pot blends art and technology, turning the act of making coffee into a dynamic ritual.

The Moka Pot isn’t just a household essential. Additionally, it’s a recognized design masterpiece, earning a spot in renowned museums like MoMA and the Triennale Design Museum. Its timeless aesthetic and cultural impact have cemented its place as a 20th-century industrial design icon.

However, while Moka’s original model was crafted from aluminum—an affordable and lightweight material at the time— nowdays it’s different. Modern concerns about its potential toxicity have led to the production of stainless steel versions. This version offeres a safer and more durable alternative without compromising the Moka Pot’s classic look.

 

How Does It Work?

Among the many coffee brewing methods, some, like the V60, rely on gravity, while others, like the French Press, work through immersion. Then, we have pressure-based methods, like espresso and, of course, the Moka Pot. Here’s how it works:

1. Water Heats Up – Fill the bottom chamber with water and place it on a heat source.
2. Pressure Builds – As the water heats, steam forms, increasing pressure and pushing hot water up through the coffee grounds.
3. Extraction Happens – The pressurized water extracts the coffee’s flavors as it passes through the grounds.
4. Coffee Collects – The brewed coffee rises through a central spout and gathers in the top chamber, ready to be poured.

How to Improve Your Moka Pot Coffee

The Moka Pot is meant to be a simple and quick brewing method—just add water, fill the basket with coffee, assemble the pot, and place it on the stove. While it brews, you still have time to make breakfast or freshen up.

With that in mind (and without overcomplicating things), we did some research to see how we can enhance the brew and avoid the common burnt taste. Here are some key tips:

• Use Hot Water – Start with boiling water instead of cold. This reduces brewing time and prevents the coffee from being exposed to excessive heat, which helps avoid that burnt flavor.
• Don’t Tamp the Grounds – Fill the basket evenly, tapping it gently on the counter to level the coffee. However, never compact the grounds with a tamper or spoon—unlike an espresso machine, the Moka Pot doesn’t generate enough pressure to handle compacted coffee.

• Use a Slightly Coarser Grind – Avoid using a fine espresso grind. Since the Moka Pot doesn’t reach high pressure levels, a medium-fine grind (similar to an AeroPress) ensures even extraction.
• Keep the Lid Open – As James Hoffmann says in his Moka Pot video, “a watched pot is a good pot.” Keeping the lid open lets you see exactly when the coffee is ready, helping you avoid the final steam burst that can over-extract the coffee and make a mess.
• Try an AeroPress Paper Filter – A common trick for improving the Moka Pot’s performance is adding a paper filter. Wet an AeroPress filter and place it over the existing metal filter before assembling the pot. This helps trap fine particles, resulting in a cleaner, smoother cup.
• Keep your Moka Pot clean – Contrary to the urban myth that you shouldn’t wash your Moka Pot because it “keeps the coffee’s oils,” here’s the truth: you should definitely wash it! Old, reheated coffee oils degrade over time and can negatively impact the flavor of your brew.
•  Store It Unassembled – After washing, never store your Moka Pot tightly screwed together. Keeping it open allows it to fully dry, prevents unwanted moisture buildup, and helps preserve the rubber gasket, keeping it in top condition.

 

Conclusion

The Moka Pot is a practical and timeless coffee maker—an essential in kitchens worldwide, a unique design piece, and an excellent brewing method.

In this article, we’ve seen how small adjustments, like properly cleaning and storing your Moka Pot or starting the brewing process with hot water, can enhance your coffee’s quality without requiring extra effort or a change in routine. For more tips check our brewing guides.

Next time you brew your Fábrica coffee, try out some of our tips and let us know how it turns out!

 

In the world of specialty coffee, Ethiopian coffee is not only one of the most beloved but, more importantly, also considered the very birthplace of coffee.

With distinct flavors, classic fruity notes and a light, tea-like texture, Ethiopia’s coffee tradition dates back many centuries.

In this article, we will explore the history and tradition of coffee in Ethiopia. What makes this origin so unique and renowned? How do locals consume the coffee they produce? What is the social role of coffee?

Introduction: Ethiopia, the Land of Origins

Ethiopia, located in the Horn of Africa, is a country rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Known as one of the oldest nations in the world, Ethiopia boasts a unique heritage that includes ancient civilizations and breathtaking landscapes. It is the only African country that was never colonized – although they tried it! – maintaining its rich traditions and identity throughout history.

The country’s geography ranges from the towering peaks of the Simien Mountains to one of the hottest places on Earth, Danakil Depression. Ethiopia is also home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including  the ancient city of Aksum.

Ethiopia, known as the “Cradle of Humanity,” holds historical and geographical significance due to early human fossils like “Lucy.”

Its rich culture is expressed through music, art, and cuisine, with injera, a sourdough flatbread, as a staple.

Ethiopia’s greatest gift to the world is coffee, deeply rooted in its culture for centuries.

The Birthplace of Coffee

Ethiopia is widely recognized as the birthplace of coffee, home to the legendary story of Kaldi, the young goat herder who discovered the energizing effects of coffee beans.

According to legend, Kaldi noticed that his goats became unusually energetic after eating the red berries from a particular plant. Curious, he tried the berries himself and experienced a newfound vigor. Excited, Kaldi brought the beans to a monastery, but a disapproving monk tossed them into the fire.

As they roasted, a rich aroma emerged, leading other monks to brew the first cup of coffee. The drink kept them awake during prayers, and its energizing effects soon spread beyond Ethiopia.

Over time, coffee became deeply woven into Ethiopian culture, evolving from a chance discovery into a cherished tradition.

 

Ethiopia’s Landscape and Terroir: The Perfect Environment for Coffee

Ethiopia’s diverse landscape and unique terroir make it an ideal place for coffee cultivation. The country’s high-altitude regions, such as Sidamo, Yirgacheffe, and Harrar, benefit greatly from cooler temperatures, as they slow down the maturation process of the coffee cherries. This extended ripening period allows for a more complex development of sugars and acids. This results in the distinct floral, fruity, and wine-like notes that Ethiopian coffee is famous for. Moreover, the volcanic soil found in many of these highland regions is rich in essential minerals, further enhancing the depth of flavor and aroma in the beans.

Additionally, Ethiopia’s climate plays a crucial role in its coffee production. The country enjoys a mix of tropical and subtropical climates, with well-defined wet and dry seasons that support coffee cultivation. The natural forested environment where many Ethiopian coffee plants grow provides ample shade, promoting slow growth and enhancing the beans’ density and complexity.

In contrast to large-scale coffee plantations, Ethiopia’s traditional farming methods depend on smallholder farmers who embrace organic and sustainable techniques, thereby preserving the beans’ heirloom characteristics and unique flavors. These factors combined make Ethiopian coffee some of the most sought-after in the world.

 

Coffee Regions and Flavor Profiles

Ethiopia is famous for its diverse coffee-growing regions, each offering distinct flavors and aromas:

• Yirgacheffe: This region, located in southern Ethiopia, produces some of the most sought-after coffee beans in the world. Yirgacheffe coffee is known for its delicate floral and citrus notes, with a bright acidity and tea-like body. The washed (wet-processed) coffees from Yirgacheffe highlight their crisp, clean flavors, while the natural (dry-processed) versions have a more pronounced fruitiness.
• Sidamo: Also in southern Ethiopia, Sidamo coffee is known for its well-balanced profile, featuring a medium body, vibrant acidity, and natural sweetness. The flavors often include hints of berries, spices, and chocolate. This region benefits from high altitudes and optimal climate conditions that contribute to the coffee’s complexity and smooth finish.
• Harrar: grown in eastern Ethiopia, boasts a bold, full-bodied character. Farmers typically dry-process it, enhancing its wine-like acidity and fruity notes, often resembling blueberries or blackberries. Its slightly fermented taste adds complexity to its flavor profile.
• Limu: Found in western Ethiopia, Limu coffee offers a unique balance of medium acidity, smooth body, and floral and spicy undertones. Producers often wet-process this coffee, enhancing its clean and crisp flavor profile. Coffee lovers appreciate Limu coffee for its consistency and pleasant, mild fruitiness.
• Guji: This rising star in the specialty coffee world grows in the Oromia region, neighboring Yirgacheffe and Sidamo. It shares some similarities with Yirgacheffe but tends to have a more pronounced fruitiness, with notes of peach, apricot, and jasmine. The combination of high altitude, fertile soil, and traditional farming methods makes Guji coffee an exceptional choice for those seeking vibrant and complex flavors. You can give it a try on our Deri Kebele.

 

The Ethiopian Coffee Ceremony: A Ritual of Connection

In Ethiopia, preparing and serving coffee is a sacred act, a tradition that goes beyond mere consumption. The Ethiopian coffee ceremony is a practice that can last for hours and involves several meticulous steps:

• Roasting the beans in a pan over an open flame, releasing their rich aroma.
• Grinding the roasted beans using a mortar and pestle.
• Brewing the coffee in a traditional clay pot called the “jebena.”
• Serving the coffee in small handleless cups known as “cini,” often accompanied by snacks like popcorn or “kolo” (roasted grains).

The ritual consists of three rounds of serving:

• Abol: The first and strongest brew, considered the most important.
• Tona: The second round, slightly milder in flavor.
• Baraka: The third and final round, meaning “blessing,” symbolizing goodwill and social bonding.

The ceremony is more than just a method of brewing coffee; it is a time-honored tradition that fosters deep social connections. The host, often a woman, carefully prepares the coffee while engaging guests in meaningful conversations. It is an opportunity to discuss community matters, share stories, and reinforce familial and social ties. The patience and attentiveness required in the ceremony reflect Ethiopian values of hospitality and respect, making it an essential part of daily life.

 

Cultural and Social Significance

Coffee in Ethiopia is not merely a beverage—it is a cultural institution that plays a central role in daily life and social interactions. The Ethiopian coffee ceremony is an expression of respect, hospitality, and community. It is often performed during special occasions, family gatherings, and to welcome guests into one’s home. The presence of coffee signals warmth and friendship, and the act of sharing a cup fosters deeper relationships among individuals.

Beyond private homes, Ethiopian coffee culture extends to public spaces, where coffee houses, known as bunna bets, serve as gathering places for conversation and connection. These establishments have long been centers for social discourse, where people discuss news, politics, and everyday life over a cup of freshly brewed coffee.

Beyond its role as a daily ritual, coffee carries deep spiritual and symbolic significance. Many Ethiopian communities integrate the ceremony into religious practices, performing it after prayer or during important celebrations. Moreover, they believe it brings blessings and good fortune, reinforcing its cultural importance.

 

Conclusion: A Tradition Worth Savoring

Coffee in Ethiopia is much more than a drink; it is a bond between people, a symbol of tradition, and a unique sensory and social experience. As an Ethiopian proverb says: “Buna dabo naw” (“Coffee is our bread”), highlighting the deep cultural significance of this beloved beverage in everyday life. Whether people enjoy it at home or in a bustling Ethiopian café, the tradition of coffee in Ethiopia remains truly cherished.

In today’s world, especially in big cities, it’s hard to embrace a slower lifestyle. A life that allows time for ourselves and the enjoyment of small details. Whether we’re caught up in work routines, household chores, or family responsibilities, we often find ourselves eating in a rush, leaving in a hurry, and even drinking coffee just for the caffeine boost.

In this article, inspired by the concept of slow living, we’ll share practical tips to help you create more time in your day to appreciate life’s little moments. Even if it’s just your morning coffee.

 

What is Slow Living?

Slow living is a lifestyle that encourages a more intentional, conscious, and unhurried pace. The core idea is to live in the present, value each moment, and avoid the excessive busyness and packed schedules.

The slow living movement originated as part of the broader “slow” movement, which began in Italy in the 1980s with slow food. In the end a response to fast food culture and the fast-paced lifestyle that came with it.

Over time, this philosophy expanded to other areas of life, including work, consumption, leisure, and relationships.

 

How to Incorporate Slow Living into Your Life

From those moving away from big cities to people seeking a more sustainable and mindful lifestyle, slow living has been gaining more and more followers.

This way of living doesn’t mean doing everything at a snail’s pace, it’s about doing things at the right pace. It’s also about rediscovering the joy of simplicity and finding more purpose in everyday life. So, how can we apply these principles in our routine?

Stress-Free Mornings: Prepare the Night Before & Organize Your Meals

Mornings are often the most chaotic part of the day. Between small tasks before work, crowded public transport, or long traffic jams, the rush is inevitable. What can we do to make them smoother?

 

 

• Plan your outfit the night before – Avoid morning indecision and save precious time.
• Pack your bag before bed – Having everything ready helps you start the day with less stress.
• Meal prep – Whether you batch-cook meals on the weekend or make an extra portion at dinner to take for lunch the next day, meal prepping saves both time and money. Plus, you’ll avoid long queues at cafeterias or crowded restaurants.
• Breakfast to-go – Opt for a breakfast that can be prepared in advance. Plan simple recipes like overnight oats, smoothie packs, or boiled eggs for a quick, nutritious start.

 

 

Wake Up 15 Minutes Earlier (and Don’t Check Your Phone!)

Waking up just 15 minutes earlier than usual doesn’t just give you extra time—it allows you to start your day at a calmer pace, ahead of the morning rush.

• Prioritize self-care – Use this time for gentle movement, journaling, meditation, or simply making your favorite coffee. Whatever you do, reserve these moments for yourself.

 

Create a Slow Coffee Routine

Stop seeing coffee as just a caffeine fix and start making it part of your morning ritual.

• Switch brewing methods – Swap instant coffee or capsules for a more mindful brewing process, like V60, Chemex, or French press. Check out our brewing guides for tips!
• Enjoy the process – Engage your senses in the coffee-making ritual. Appreciate the aroma, the flavors, and the simple pleasure of a well-brewed cup.

 

Reduce Screen Time

It’s no secret that reducing screen time has significant benefits. Whether it’s watching less TV or spending less time on social media, reducing screen time can significantly improve your well-being.

• Swap your screen for a book – Use your commute or the 15 minutes before bed to read instead of scrolling.
• Delay picking up your phone in the morning – The way you start your day sets the tone for the rest of it. Try not to check social media or the news first thing in the morning—give yourself a relaxed start instead.
• Start journaling – Replace early-morning screen time with just 10 minutes of journaling. It helps organize your thoughts and sets a clear, focused tone for the day.

 

Declutter Your Space for a Clear Mind

As the saying goes, “less is more.” And in this case, it couldn’t be truer.

• Minimalist organization – A clean, clutter-free home—especially in spaces like the kitchen—makes daily life smoother and less stressful. A tidy space contributes to a clearer mind.
• Keep essentials within reach – Store frequently used items where they are easy to access. If coffee is a crucial part of your morning, make sure your coffee equipment and beans are always ready to use.

 

Final Thoughts

Slow living isn’t about doing everything at a snail’s pace. This movement is about making intentional choices that bring more ease and joy into your daily life. By simplifying your mornings, creating mindful

rituals, and reducing unnecessary distractions, you can transform even the most ordinary moments—like brewing your coffee—into something meaningful.

It doesn’t take a complete lifestyle overhaul to embrace slow living. Small shifts, like preparing your breakfast the night before, giving yourself a quiet moment before checking your phone, or savoring your morning coffee instead of rushing through it, can make all the difference.

So tomorrow, take a deep breath, slow down just a little, and truly enjoy that first sip of coffee.