La Cafetiere Bialetti Venus 2 Cups Espresso Maker

The smallest Venus, and the one that makes sense for a single drinker: two espresso cups, brewed and poured before a larger pot has come up to heat.

The stainless steel Venus brews by the same method as the Moka Express, in a shape better suited to a modern kitchen. Food-grade stainless steel throughout, so it works on every hob including induction, with a drip-less spout, a heat-resistant ergonomic handle and Bialetti's patented safety valve.

Fill the base to just below the safety valve, insert the funnel and fill it loosely with moka-ground coffee without tamping. Screw the top on firmly, using the body rather than the handle for leverage, and set it on a low to medium heat. Remove it as soon as the upper chamber fills — boiling it on gives the bitter, burnt cup. It runs quickly at this size — watch it rather than timing it.

Hand wash in warm water and dry each part fully before reassembling. No detergent, no abrasives, not dishwasher safe. Wash all parts before first use and discard the first three brews. Covered by Bialetti’s one-year manufacturer warranty.