For most of my life a typical morning has consisted of a large mug of steaming hot, black coffee.
Recently, I began experimenting with adding a little cream which I found adds a nice contrast to the robust coffee flavor but typically, I prefer it simple, hot, and black.
I’ve never been one for sweeteners so it is very unlikely you will catch me adding a heaping spoonful of sugar or a substitute to my morning elixir.
A Revolution in My Coffee Making
My wife got me an espresso machine for Christmas. I know, I’m a lucky man. In the past I’ve ordered a few lattes, a cappuccino here and there, a machioto from time to time, but it just does not compare to making drinks yourself, and actually controlling what goes into them.
So, I began experimenting.
I quickly discovered that drinking a shot of espresso straight just wasn’t for me. First of all, I usually drink a 16oz cup of coffee, so a 2oz doppio just left me wanting more. Also, the flavor was just too bold, and this is from someone that is used to drinking their coffee black.
Next, I began concocting cappuccinos and lattes. They were delicious but sometimes all that milk was just too much, and I just missed that full Rich flavor of black coffee.
This is when I decided to try an Americano. I was hesitant at first, thinking it is just watered down coffee. How could that possibly be good? I have to tell you though, it was love at first sip. The cafe americano has a clean and robust flavor that is just super smooth.
Origin of the Americano
As if the taste wasn’t enough, The Americano is a drink with a history as rich as its flavor.
I love a good backstory. Think Jason Bourne being fished out of the sea, riddled with bullets.
Legend has it that American GIs stationed in Italy during WWII added a little bit of water to their espresso to recreate the taste of coffee they were used to back home. Little did they know, but GIs that were thirsty for the comforts of home created a beverage still enjoyed today.
How To Make An Americano
The trick to getting a perfect, smooth tasting americano is to find the ratio of hot water to espresso that you like. I hit this on the first try with a 1:1 of hot water to espresso. Making an Americano could not be simpler.
Americano Recipe
- Start by pouring 3 ounces of hot water into your favorite mug.
- Add 3 ounces of espresso.
- Enjoy. Life is good.
You can always add more or less hot water to tweak the flavor of your Americano. Simple, strong, delicious – The way a coffee should be.
How To Make an Iced Americano
It’s easy to make an iced version of this drink. For an Iced Americano, you just need to cool an ounce or 2 of hot espresso.
- Place 3 or 4 ice cubes in your glass.
- Add your espresso shot.
- Add another 2 ounces of cold water.
While it would not technically be an americano anymore, you can add a splash of milk or cream and it makes this beverage a decadent treat.
How to Order an Americano
If you don’t have an espresso machine, and you want to try an Americano, you can always order one at your favorite cafe. The only thing to be careful about while ordering this beverage is that they don’t make it too watery.
Many places will just add extra water to fill whatever size cup you asked for. To avoid this, you need to be specific. Ask them to leave room. There is just no sense in paying for 16ozs of hot water.
Tip For Ordering an Americano
This tip requires a little bit of math on your part, but it will make sure the barista gives you the correct ratio of water to coffee every time.
For example, say your cafe offers a small 8 ounce cup for take-out.
You could order a small Americano with 4 espresso shots. This should give you a 1:1 ratio of 4 ounces of hot water to 4 ounces espresso.
Or, you could order a double, small americano, half full and that should also give you a 1 to 1 ratio. Your drink would be made with 2 ounces of espresso and 2 ounces of hot water and would half fill a 8 ounce cup.
It seems a little bit complicated but once you figure out how much espresso you want, there should not be any confusion when the barista is ready to prepare your drink.
If you enjoyed this post, you might want to check out these other brew guides. Also, check back often to keep up on the latest deals and coffee savings.
