Moka pot coffee tastes bitter or burnt
The coffee tastes sharply bitter or has a burnt, scorched character.
Applies to: Moka pot
Safety note
Moka pots build pressure while heating. If the safety valve is leaking steam continuously, or the pot is severely dented or damaged, stop using it rather than continuing to brew — do not attempt to force it open while hot.
Likely causes and adjustments
Try one adjustment at a time so you know what actually changed the result. Start with the first cause below — if it doesn't help, reveal the next.
Cause 1 of 3 · Reported, not independently verified
Heat too high, scorching the coffee near the end of brewing
Use lower to medium heat and remove from heat as soon as the brewing sound changes.
Related issues
What to change
Specific adjustments for this symptom, with what each one trades off.