American coffee at home: step by step to prepare it like an expert
Have you ever had that craving for a big, flavorful cup of coffee to keep you going through the morning? If so, you've probably heard of American coffee . But what exactly is it and how do you make it?
We tell you all the secrets of this drink and show you how you can make it at home like a professional.
What is American coffee ?
This coffee is a drink distinguished by its smooth taste and generous size. Its origins date back to World War II, when American soldiers in Italy found the local coffee too strong for their taste. To accommodate their preferences, Italian baristas began diluting espresso with hot water, creating a drink that was milder and more similar to the filter coffee the soldiers knew.
This type of coffee offers a lighter experience compared to other types of concentrated coffee . By diluting the espresso, the Americano achieves a perfect balance between strength and smoothness, allowing you to enjoy a large cup without the intensity of a straight espresso. This makes the Americano a great choice for those looking for a more approachable and less overwhelming coffee.
It is also ideal for those who prefer a coffee that is less bitter and smoother on the palate. Its smoothness makes it an excellent choice for any time of day, whether in the morning to start the day with energy or in the afternoon for a relaxing break.
How is American coffee distinguished from other coffee drinks?
This coffee is distinguished from other coffee drinks mainly by its smoothness and generous size. Unlike espresso, which is intense and served in small quantities, this coffee is lighter and comes in a larger cup. This is achieved by simply adding hot water to the espresso, which reduces its intensity and makes it perfect for those times when you want to enjoy a large cup without the burden of a concentrated espresso.
Compared to other drinks like a latte or cappuccino, an Americano doesn't contain milk. A latte mixes espresso with steamed milk. A cappuccino combines espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam. An Americano, on the other hand, keeps it simple with just espresso and hot water.
In addition, the cortado and the macchiato also differ from the Americano. The cortado is an espresso with a little milk to soften its intensity. The macchiato is an espresso with a small amount of milk foam, which gives it a stronger taste than the Americano.
In short, American coffee is distinguished by its simplicity, lightness and versatility, being an ideal option for those who prefer a less intense coffee without milk, but with the possibility of enjoying a larger cup.
How to prepare an American coffee at home
Preparing this coffee is easier than you think. Here are the steps:
- First, make a really strong espresso. If you have an espresso machine, use it to get that concentrated shot, which is the base of your americano. You can also use a capsule coffee maker , as long as you choose the espresso option.
- Next, mix the espresso with hot water. The standard ratio is two parts hot water to one part espresso, but this is just a guide. Like it milder? Add more water. Prefer a little more body? Use less water. This way, you can customize the taste of your coffee.
- Stir and enjoy: Once you've added the water, stir the mixture well. This will ensure that the espresso and water are fully integrated, resulting in a smooth and well-balanced cup of coffee. Make sure the coffee is well-blended to enjoy a consistent experience with every sip. Enjoy your freshly brewed coffee and feel how its smooth and pleasant taste accompanies you in every moment of the day.
If you want an extra kick, consider adding a little milk or cream for a richer flavor. You can also experiment with different types of coffee beans to adjust the flavor profile to your liking. Feel free to explore and find the perfect blend that you enjoy most!
Adjust the flavor to your taste
The magic of American coffee is that you can adjust the intensity to your preference. If you like a stronger coffee, simply add less water to the espresso. On the other hand, if you prefer a milder taste, add more hot water.
You can also experiment with the water temperature. Some people like their coffee piping hot, while others prefer a warmer temperature. Play around with these variables until you find the perfect combination for you.
Dare to experiment
Now that you know the secret to making an Americano , why not try making it at home? Experiment with the proportions of espresso and water to find your ideal blend. Also, consider trying different types of coffee beans. A single-origin coffee can offer you more distinctive and unique flavors. A blend of beans, on the other hand, can provide a more balanced and complex flavor profile. Therefore, customizing your coffee becomes a fun and delicious experience. Dare to explore until you find the flavor that makes you smile.
So, next time you make yourself an Americano , have fun experimenting and find that ideal flavor.