If you’re reading this, there is a high chance that you have already had an Americano in your lifetime. The Americano is thought to be the second most widely drunk coffee in the world, second only to the mighty espresso. But what is it exactly? How does it compare to other coffees? How is it made, and more to the point, what are the benefits? We’re going to tell you all of this and more. What Is An Americano?
So, what is an Americano? Put simply it’s a double shot of espresso, mixed with two parts hot water. It can be served with or without milk, and it lends itself excellently to the Iced Americano. Made well, it provides a ‘long’ drink which carries the depth and flavour of espresso. What Is The Difference Between A Latte And An Americano?Well, this is an easy one. The difference is … milk. A latte is a double shot mixed with steamed milk, and an Americano is a double shot mixed with hot water. The latte is a smooth, textured drink, whereas the Americano is more robust, conveying the flavour and depth of the espresso. Americano vs. Drip CoffeeDrip coffee is most likely the reason the Americano was invented, but there are differences not only in how they are prepared but how they taste. As we know, a drip coffee is traditionally brewed using a filter machine, and it is this that the soldiers in Italy during WWII were trying to copy. Of course, in recent times there are many different drip systems, like the Aeropress and Chemex systems. Drip coffees do not carry the same complex flavour as the Americano as they are not produced using espresso. Americano vs. Long BlackThe long black is basically a ‘halfway house’ between the Americano and the espresso. A double espresso shot is mixed with roughly half the amount of hot water as you would use in an Americano. So, although similar, the long black is a shorter drink with a slightly more intense flavour and more crema. Americano vs. EspressoBy now, you probably know what we’re going to say here. The espresso is the father of the Americano and provides the body and depth. In comparison, an espresso is much smaller, more intense and will have a richer crema. The Americano is longer, more refreshing, and subtler, but should carry all of the characteristics of the espresso all the same. How To Make Americano Coffee
Note: we are assuming you have an espresso maker for this. Sorry if you don’t. Step 1 – Buy The Right BeansOne drawback of Americano is that if your espresso is not up to scratch, imperfections tend to be exaggerated by the extra water. It’s crucial for you to buy espresso beans you know you like. They do need to be espresso beans – other beans simply won’t work. So no cutting corners here, only the best will do. Step 2 – Grind The Beans RightFirst, you want to measure the right amount for a double shot. 14-18 grams should do it. Then grind the beans as fine as you can: we’re going for a great espresso, so if you’re grinding manually then it’s time to put in the work. If you don’t have a coffee grinder yet, you are advised to get one. Trust us, it’ll be worth it. See our Coffee Grinding Guide to figure out the best grind for espresso. Step 3 – Tamp Tamp TampAs with any espresso-based coffee, it’s important to tamp the beans tight into the portafilter to ensure the best possible extraction and the best possible espresso. Step 4 – Make An EspressoLoad your portafilter into the machine, and do whatever it is you need to do with your machine to make the best espresso. Sit back and watch your espresso flow steadily into the espresso cup, or whatever you put there to catch it. If you didn’t put anything underneath, take a long hard look in the mirror, and go back to step one. Step 5 – Heat The WaterThere are various schools of thought about how hot the water should be. Too hot, the coffee doesn’t cool fast enough and loses flavour: too cold, it cools too quickly, and the same thing happens. However, somewhere between 165-170 degrees Fahrenheit ought to do it. If you have a kettle that can heat to precise temperatures great, otherwise use your Step 6 – Pour The Espresso Over The Hot WaterYou must pour the espresso into the hot water, not the other way around. This way, not only is the blend better but the crema is retained. Aim for roughly 2 parts water to one part espresso – much less than this, and you just made yourself a long black. Either add more water or go back to step one and listen this time. Step 7 – Americano!There it is. Either add milk, serve your Americano with cream, or leave it as it is. Whichever you decide, be sure to enjoy it though. If you followed our guide well, we’re pretty sure you will. Benefits Of An AmericanoWell, the first benefit of an Americano is that it’s a great brew. Although never fully accepted in Italy, worldwide there is a reason it’s gone on to become so popular. Providing the flavour of espresso in a longer drink means you can kick back and enjoy for longer. Also, iced Americano works brilliantly for the hot summer months.
Not only is it a delicious brew when done right, there is extensive evidence that Americano coffee benefits our health. Black coffee also has many positive effects on the brain, as it is packed full of antioxidants, and has been shown to not only boost memory and brain function but also to help prevent diseases like Parkinsons and Alzheimers. It also has the ability to improve mood, energy levels, and cognitive function. Plus, it can even make you smarter over time.
It also helps prevent liver cancer, hepatitis, fatty liver disease, and alcoholic cirrhosis. There is a link with reduced risk of other cancers, diabetes, and studies have shown that two black coffees a day can even help with mental health issues such as depression. We’ve now shared everything you’ll need to get that elusive cup. Ready to brew the perfect Americano? Check out our range of espresso makers here. The post How To Make The Ideal Americano appeared first on Alternative Brewing. from https://alternativebrewing.com.au/how-to-make-americano/
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