Aimed at the first time espresso maker or even the more experienced coffee lover, who doesn’t want a fuss, Sboly steam espresso machine is a compact device with a frother that frees you from using pods, powders, and filters.
The theory is to enjoy your favorite beverages within minutes with the ease of a drop-and-drink system. On the face of it, I love the simplicity, though read until the end to see if in practice the device works as well as the theory.
What is Espresso Coffee?
Espresso coffee was in invented in Italy in 1901. A small amount of nearly boiling water is pumped at high pressure through finely ground coffee beans of a wide selection (read more at Wikipedia).
Sboly Steam Espresso Machine Ease of Use
The Sboly has a user friendly design with an easy to read water gauge, and it can be set to make two cups or four cups at the same time. You can pair it with any of your favorite brand of bean to get the perfect coffee from the comfort of your home (remember coarser coffee is better coffee).
An integrated metal steam nozzle adds the finishing touch to your drink with its two settings: hot steam for cappuccinos and lattes or foam for hot chocolates and other cold drinks like mocha.
The Sboly comes with a well designed scoop to fill with espresso. It has a nice little press on the base of the handle to flatten and compact the espresso into the scoop/cup. All of the pieces slot together simply. A drip tray is easily removable and easy to clean.
Making Coffee With the Sboly in Steps
Pour in water up to 4 cups/shots importantly not more using the included water carafe. Easily insert the filter and twist the handle into place (this really does feel secure and solid). Its advisable to do the milk frothing before making the coffee itself. Dip the wand into the milk and allow it to froth in about 40 seconds.
The simple dial on the side of the machine has 3 settings: brew, off and steam. Twist to ‘brew’ to heat the water; Then pour your espresso onto the milk froth, creating your barista art such as a heart or in my case a wonky spiral. I timed the whole process of making a cappuccino at 3 minutes 45 seconds.
Alternatively, as the coffee aromas begin to fill the air simply pour your milky froth on top of each coffee and scoop out the last of the froth to give the top a creamy look.
“Easy brew, Easy Life”
-The axiom of Sboly.
If you would simply like to use the frothing feature, to liven up a coffee, you can add about 3.2oz of water; twist the dial to “Steam”, then you’ll get a creamy, thick foam in less than 2 minutes. Please remember to use the instructions set out in the user guide.
Cleaning the Sobly
On rare occasions, the cleaning wand can get milk inside it which will prevent it frothing. Use a cleaning needle to clear the small hole in the wand. When you finish frothing, remove the plastic piece and use a wet cloth to wipe the frothy wand, to prevent clogging. The main pieces are well designed to be removable and washable such as the drip tray.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a traditional alternative to the coffee pod model, though that works with modern ease of use, the Sboly won’t let you down. Its great for beginners in grasping how to make cappuccinos in a simple yet professional manner.
Pros
- Made of robust metal and plastic this smallish device will fit easily on a shelf in the kitchen and is a great buy for the price.
- It looks great with its black, metal and glass, real cafe look
Cons
- It’s hard to find cons with the Sboly, though I would say stick to the instructions as with all steamers.
The good news is you find it on Amazon. Check the price here.
- You may like to read 8 Best Electric Milk Frothers For the Home
- We hope this is a good read: Secura 4-1 Coffee Milk Frother – Great Auto Hot Chocolate
- Read: Best Manual Hand Pump Milk Frothers
