Espresso is a style of coffee that was created in Italy, and there are different types to make. Each has its own unique flavor that will appeal to individual coffee drinkers.
Let’s take a closer look at how espresso is served, and the different ways that coffee lovers like to consume this beverage. Pair with premium Brazilian coffee candy and watch your day brighten.
#1. Ristretto
Ristretto espresso is often referred to as a “coffee shot”, even though most forms of espresso have been given this name. This style of espresso is made with half the amount of water than you would normally use, and the same amount of coffee.
This blend has a syrupy texture, and has a bitter taste, because it is concentrated and strong.
There are ways to make it less concentrated, but most people prefer to consume it in this fashion. Ristretto is bitter, but it’s not as strong tasting as other espresso varieties.
People who like strong, unfiltered coffee drinks will be attracted to Ristretto. The drink is rich, and is best served with sweets or foods such as hearty roasts, stews, or quiche.
If a person likes to drink alcohol, they can mix this strong espresso with a dark liquor. Kahlúa is a Mexican-based liquor that has a coffee-like taste. It will blend well with Ristretto, or some people use Frangelico, which is a hazelnut and herb liquor that is produced in Italy.
Also, people like to consume a Ristretto coffee when they want to raise their energy levels.
#2. Lungo
When more water is poured over coffee grinds within an espresso machine, it will cause the drink to become more bitter. A Lungo espresso is a strong, but watery version of espresso.
It is made with twice as much water as a regular espresso. This type of coffee is often mixed with various coffee flavorings, milk, cream and/or sugar. Coffee enthusiasts prefer to drink it in its natural form.
People who really love to drink strong and bitter coffees will get a kick out of the bold flavor of Lungo. The coffee’s powerful taste is best served with desserts, or it can be sweetened and used as a post-dinner coffee drink.
Lungo is also consumed in the afternoon, when people want a midday boost to keep them going until the evening.
#3. Regular Espresso
Regular espresso is made by forcing hot water, through a machine, over coffee grounds. This type of coffee blend is thicker, and has a higher concentration of coffee than other types.
The rich and thick flavor of an espresso is hard to ignore. Many people like to enjoy this drink in its natural form, but others typically add condiments and creamers to water down the bold flavor.
People generally consume espresso during any part of the day. However, most people will drink this coffee as part of their morning routine, or they will grab a cup during lunch in the afternoon.
This drink is also best served with sweet foods, and traditional dishes that are rich and hearty.
The Difference Between Espresso, Lungo and Ristretto
Espresso, Lungo and Ristretto are names of the types of espresso coffees that people often consume. Espresso is the normal sized cup for this drink.
Espresso typically uses about 2 ounces of water. A Ristretto takes about one ounce of water, and a Lungo utilizes 4 ounces of water.
Essentially, these different styles are still espresso. However, they are all defined by the amount of water used to make them.
