The Americano stands out for its balance between the strength of the espresso and the lightness provided by the hot water. With this guide, you'll learn how to prepare it precisely to enjoy a smooth and well-balanced coffee.
Ingredients and Tools
- 190cc cup
- 20 grams of ground espresso coffee
- Espresso machine
- Precision scale
- Tamper
- Kettle or hot water dispenser
Steps to Prepare an Americano
1. Preheat the Mug
Fill the 190cc cup with hot water and let it sit for a few seconds. This ensures the drink maintains the correct temperature when served.
2. Grind and Compact the Coffee
Measure 20 grams of ground coffee with the scale and place it in the portafilter. Tamp the coffee, making sure it's level for even extraction.
3. Extract the Espresso
Place the cup under the espresso machine nozzles. Start the extraction and time it for 25 to 35 seconds. The espresso should yield between 40 and 50 grams and have a uniform golden crema.
4. Add Hot Water
Fill the cup with 150 ml of hot water, making sure it is at a temperature of 85-90 °C. Do not use boiling water to avoid altering the taste of the coffee.
5. Ride the American
Pour the espresso over the hot water. This order preserves the espresso crema on the surface, adding body and aroma to the Americano.
Practical tips
- Proper proportions: Maintain a balance between espresso and hot water to achieve a consistent flavor.
- Freshly ground coffee: Grind the grains just before preparing the drink to ensure freshness.
- Controlled temperature: Use hot, not boiling, water to preserve the nuances of the coffee.
Equipment cleaning: Clean the machine and accessories after each use to avoid residual flavors.
