In a nutshell, no. Instant coffee is made from dried coffee extract, which dissolves entirely once hot water is added. Instant coffee is faster, less expensive and was made to create an ‘instant’ alternative to traditional coffee brewing methods. Instant generally includes less caffeine too. When it comes to taste, fresh coffee has undeniably better flavours.

Ground coffee is what brewed coffee is made from. Before coffee is brewed, whole beans are put into a grinder (other methods such as food processors can be used) and ground to a variety of sizes to extract as much flavour as possible. The ground coffee is then used to brew your coffee. The main advantage is convenience and knowing that it has been ground to perfection.

Yes, ground coffee can be used in an espresso machine.