How to Make Espresso Shot (Traditional & Healthy Version)
The Espresso Shot has become an integral part of Singapore's contemporary coffee culture, merging seamlessly with the vibrant kopitiam scene. While kopi remains the cornerstone of traditional hawker breakfasts, the espresso shot has carved a niche among young professionals and coffee enthusiasts seeking an intense, aromatic, and quick caffeine fix. Its bold flavor, deep crema, and robust aroma make it an exciting fusion beverage, often enjoyed in chic cafes or even local kopitiams experimenting with global influences. In Singapore, the espresso shot represents the city’s cosmopolitan palate, blending Italian technique with the efficiency and communal vibe of local coffee shops. The focus on fresh, high-quality beans and precise brewing creates an experience that’s both energizing and satisfying. The espresso shot is not just a drink—it’s a ritual, offering a moment of clarity amidst the busy Singapore lifestyle. Its minimal calories and pure, unadulterated taste make it a smart, health-conscious choice for those tracking their daily intake or seeking a sugar-free beverage.
Ingredients
- 18 grams Freshly roasted coffee beans (Arabica or Robusta blend) (locally sourced if possible)
- 60 ml Filtered water (essential for clean taste)
- to taste Optional: Demerara sugar (served separately, known locally as 'gula pasir')
- a pinch Optional: Cinnamon powder (for aroma)
- 30 ml Optional: Skim milk (for a lighter 'espresso macchiato')
- 2 Clean espresso cup (pre-warmed)
- 1 Espresso machine or Moka pot (essential equipment)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Preheat your espresso cups and machine to ensure optimal extraction...
Preheat your espresso cups and machine to ensure optimal extraction temperature.
Step 2 · Grind the coffee beans to a fine consistency
Grind the coffee beans to a fine consistency, resembling table salt.
Step 3 · Weigh out 18 grams of ground coffee and tamp evenly into the portaf...
Weigh out 18 grams of ground coffee and tamp evenly into the portafilter.
Step 4 · Lock the portafilter into the espresso machine and start the shot
Lock the portafilter into the espresso machine and start the shot. Brew for 25–30 seconds to yield about 30 ml per shot.
Step 5 · Serve immediately in pre-warmed cups
Serve immediately in pre-warmed cups. Add a pinch of cinnamon powder or a touch of sugar if desired.
Step 6 · For a local twist
For a local twist, add a splash of skim milk to create a lighter espresso macchiato.
Why this recipe is healthy
This espresso shot recipe is a healthy choice because it uses only fresh coffee and water, with sugar and milk as optional, controlled additions. The absence of syrups, artificial creamers, or excessive sweeteners keeps the calorie count minimal. Espresso also provides a natural energy boost, making it an ideal beverage for weight management and those with active lifestyles.
A note on tradition
In Singapore, espresso shots are increasingly popular in modern kopitiams and specialty cafes, symbolizing the city’s openness to global influences. While the traditional 'kopi' remains beloved, espresso has found a place alongside it, especially among younger generations and the working crowd. It’s typically enjoyed as a quick pick-me-up during busy mornings or post-lunch slumps, embodying the fast-paced yet quality-focused Singaporean lifestyle.