The world of coffee brewing is intricate, full of fascinating techniques and equipment that contribute to the variety and richness of flavor we experience in our cups. Among these instruments, the Ninja Hot and Cold Brewed System has garnered considerable attention. With its promise of delivering a diverse range of brew styles, including both hot and cold drinks, this system has caught the eye of many coffee enthusiasts. One question comes up repeatedly though: Does the Ninja Hot and Cold Brewed System make espresso? This blog post aims to provide a comprehensive answer.
Undeniably, the Ninja Hot and Cold Brewed System is a versatile machine. It offers five brew styles: Classic, Rich, Over Ice, Cold Brew, and Specialty. Each of these styles corresponds to a different flavor profile and brewing temperature, providing an array of options for coffee enthusiasts. Its features also include a built-in frother, a 50 oz. (10-cup) glass carafe, separate coffee and tea brew baskets, and a smart scoop.
Espresso, a concentrated form of coffee served in “shots,” is made by forcing a small amount of nearly boiling water under pressure through finely-ground coffee beans. The process results in a beverage that’s thicker than coffee brewed by other methods, has a higher concentration of suspended and dissolved solids, and has crema on top (a foam with a creamy consistency).
The Ninja Hot and Cold Brewed System’s ‘Specialty Brew’ setting is designed to create a super-rich concentrate that can be combined with frothed milk to create various espresso-based drinks like lattes, macchiatos, and cappuccinos. However, the key question remains: Does this count as real espresso?
The answer isn’t a simple yes or no.
On one hand, the ‘Specialty Brew’ setting does produce a rich, highly-concentrated coffee that mimics the flavor profile of an espresso. For many home coffee drinkers, this will satisfy their craving for a strong, espresso-like drink.
On the other hand, the Ninja Hot and Cold Brewed System does not reach the pressure levels typically used by espresso machines (usually around 9 bars). Instead, it relies on its advanced thermal flavor extraction technology to achieve a rich and intense flavor. While this results in a delicious, robust coffee, it does not technically meet the definition of espresso.
1. Can I make espresso-based drinks with the Ninja Hot and Cold Brewed System?
Yes, you can. The ‘Specialty Brew’ setting produces a rich coffee concentrate that you can use as the base for various espresso-style beverages, such as lattes, cappuccinos, and macchiatos.
2. Is the coffee made by the Ninja Hot and Cold Brewed System comparable to that from dedicated espresso machines?
The coffee produced by the Ninja system is robust, flavorful, and can satisfy the cravings of many coffee lovers. However, if you’re a purist who values the unique characteristics of a genuine espresso shot made under high pressure, you might find a dedicated espresso machine more to your liking.
3. Can the Ninja Hot and Cold Brewed System use coffee pods?
No, the Ninja Hot and Cold Brewed System does not use coffee pods. It uses loose coffee grounds, giving you the freedom to choose your favorite coffee and grind it to your preferred consistency.
In summary, while the Ninja Hot and Cold Brewed System does not technically make espresso due to its inability to achieve the high pressure used in traditional espresso machines, it does produce a concentrated coffee that closely mimics the strong, robust flavor of espresso. This makes it a great choice for those who enjoy espresso-style drinks but don’t want to invest in a dedicated espresso machine. Its versatility, ease of use, and ability to produce a variety of delicious hot and cold beverages make it an excellent addition to any kitchen.
