Any gaggia owners willing to give me some tips?

[tonycollinet]

Got a new gaggia for my Bday

Made some very nice cappuccino, and lattes, but am struggling with "americano?" (water based) coffee.

Basically I am not sure how to get the strength right for an espresso shot to "lengthen" with hot water, then add a dash of milk. Basically not getting the strength right.

I am using the two cup filter, and using two scoops of grounds, and allowing the water to run through for about 30s. If I make two mugs with this it is too weak. If I make one, it is too strong.

Anyone willing to share process.

Thanks

[Malandro]

Without trying to be facetious, you could try making one and half mugs to get the strength somewhere in-between?

I'm not scientific about it.  I like it strong and generally fill the two cup filter to the top, tamp it down a bit and then run the water through till I have a double espresso size.  Never timed it but probably less than 30 secs!  For an Americano (black) I then add water to fit the mug I'm using. 

Keep practicing - however awful, it will always taste better than Starbucks! 

[Rhys W]

Unless you use Starbucks coffee (I have tried this experiment at home)...

You need a bigger mug. The length of time you run it won't make much difference - it's all in the dilution.

[andygates]

Agreed - about 2:1 makes a nice long coffee in my book, but it's personal taste.  Once you find mugs of the right size, you will cherish them!

[pumpkin]

Why are you using mugs? Americanos in Europe are generally in a large (cappucino) cup or a smaller (double) espresso cup. The two cup brew head produces 2 x single espresso or 1 x double espresso. The 'ideal' espresso is produced in @25 seconds and your grind/machine needs calibrating to this.
If I was making an Americano, I would set the machine up for a double espresso and when the coffee stream runs paler then turn the flow off when you think it's right. I called in at the retailers a couple of times to ask about these problems. You could buy a Jura bean-cup machine that does the work for you, but really it's just practice.
Have a look at

Espresso Machines, Coffee Makers, Grinders, Coffee Accessories For Gourmet Coffee Drinks