What is an Americano?
When you’re presented with an americano, you’ll be forgiven for thinking it’s just your standard, run of the mill black coffee. The brew is becoming a favourite amongst coffee connoisseurs looking for a bold, strong cup that’s not bothered by all the frills of steamed milk or froth. Keep reading to find out what an americano coffee is and how it differs from other coffee types…
What is an americano coffee?
An americano is quite simply just hot water and espresso. It’ll either be served 1/2 and 1/2 or 1/3 espresso to 2/3 water, depending on the coffee shop in question or how you’ve chosen to brew it. There is dispute about whether the espresso or the water should be added first, but in the case of the americano, espresso should always be added first as the crema mixes in and creates a more mellow, even taste. But some people may add it depending on their personal preference. Whilst most other espresso-based coffee drinks include milk, such as the cappuccino or latte, the americano stands out amongst them.
What is an americano coffee made of?
An americano is just water and espresso. It’ll either be served 1/2 and 1/2 or 1/3 espresso to 2/3 water, depending on the coffee shop in question or how you’ve chosen to brew it. Traditionally, there will be no milk but some people may add it depending on their personal preference. Whilst most other espresso-based coffee drinks include milk, such as the cappuccino or latte, the americano coffee stands out amongst them.
What a mocha is made of
Although a mocha is often interpreted differently across the world, the basis is that a shot of espresso is combined with a chocolate powder or syrup, followed by milk or cream. It is a variant of a latte, in the sense that it is often 1/3 espresso and 2/3 steamed milk. However, a chocolate flavour is added, and this can be milk or dark.
Americano origins
The americano finds its origins in World War II. Interestingly, American soldiers stationed in Italy didn’t care for the very strong espresso that was favoured in the country, therefore they tried to recreate their beloved drip coffee from back home by adding water to the espresso shot. The result? The americano that we know and love today.
The americano also used to be iced. The process of making it was the same, but cold water was used instead and ice cubes were added.
Differences between an americano coffee and drip coffee
Essentially, drip coffee is coffee that is made by filling special coffee maker with ground coffee and pouring hot water into it, allowing the water to drip through to the pot. With an americano, water is poured over the espresso but the process is much quicker and there is no 'dripping' involved.
Differences between an americano and a long black
This debate has caused many arguments over the years, with some claiming that there’s absolutely no difference. However, the long black that’s widely appreciated in New Zealand and Australia possesses a much stronger flavour than the americano. Remember the debate about adding the water or espresso first? The long black is why it makes a difference. When the espresso shot is added to the water it results in less dilution for the espresso, creating a strong coffee with a layer of crema on top.
So now you know what an americano coffee is. Why not find out all about what an espresso is, next.
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