Americano

Region: Europe / United States (WWII Era) 🇺🇸

Brewing Time: 3 minutes (for espresso)

Total Time: 4 minutes

Indulgence: ☕️ (Light)

The Story:

Legend has it that American GIs stationed in Italy during WWII found the local espresso too strong. To replicate the filter coffee they were used to back home, they would dilute the espresso with hot water. The Italians began calling this drink "Caffè Americano," or American coffee.

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Prep Time 1

Brewing time 3

Total Time 4

Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients

2 shots espresso
3-4 oz hot water

Equipment

1 Espresso machine
1 Kettle

Method

Pull two shots of espresso directly into a mug.
Heat water to just off the boil.
Add the hot water to the espresso, adjusting the ratio to your preferred strength.
Pro Tip: The order matters! Pouring espresso over hot water preserves the crema and creates a smoother drink. Pouring water over espresso is faster and blends it more thoroughly.