Are you baffled by the term “lungo” when ordering your coffee? It’s actually an Italian word that means “long,” and pertains to a type of espresso-based drink. This blog post will explore why it’s called lungo, from its unique brewing process to how it varies from other coffee beverages.
So let’s dive into this stimulating world of caffeine!
Why is it Called Lungo?
The term “lungo” is derived from the Italian word for “long.” This name reflects the extended extraction process used to make this type of coffee.
Compared to a standard espresso, which is short and concentrated, a lungo uses more water, resulting in a lengthier pull from the espresso machine. This longer extraction yields a larger volume of coffee that’s milder in flavor compared to its espresso counterpart.
Originating from European coffee traditions, particularly in Italy, the name aptly captures the essence of this beverage: a “lengthened” version of the classic espresso, offering a different taste experience for coffee aficionados.
Key Takeaways
- “Lungo” is an Italian word that means “long,” and it refers to a type of espresso – based drink.
- The term “lungo” comes from the extended brewing process where more water is added to the coffee grounds for a longer time, resulting in a larger volume of brewed coffee.
- Lungo coffee has a milder taste compared to espresso because of the increased water volume used during brewing.
- Lungos have higher caffeine content than espressos due to the extended extraction time and larger amount of water used.
The Meaning of “Lungo”
Lungo” is an Italian term that refers to a long espresso shot, which is achieved by pulling more water through the coffee grounds for a longer period of time.
Origin of the term
The word “lungo” comes from Italian language. It means “long”. This name was given because of how the coffee is made. The water runs through the coffee grounds for a long time, making more liquid than in normal espresso.
That’s why it’s called Lungo or a “long shot”.
Translation and interpretation
The term “lungo” comes from the Italian language and means “long.” It is used to describe the larger volume of coffee in a lungo compared to a regular espresso shot. When making a lungo, more water is added during the brewing process, resulting in a longer extraction time.
This extended length of time allows for more flavor compounds and caffeine to be extracted from the coffee grounds, creating a different taste profile compared to an espresso shot.
The translation and interpretation of “lungo” emphasize its unique characteristics as a longer, diluted version of traditional espresso.
How Lungo Differs from Espresso
Lungo differs from espresso in terms of brewing method, taste, and caffeine content.
Brewing method and ratio
To brew a lungo coffee, you use an espresso machine just like you would for a regular espresso shot. However, the brewing method and ratio are slightly different. Instead of using the usual amount of water and extraction time for an espresso shot, a lungo uses more water and has a longer extraction time.
This means that hot water is allowed to pass through a greater amount of coffee grounds, resulting in a larger volume of brewed coffee. The extraction time for a lungo is typically around 30 seconds or longer compared to the shorter extraction time for an espresso shot.
This extended brewing process gives the lungo its unique flavor and character.
Taste and aroma
Lungo coffee has a different taste and aroma compared to espresso. Because more water is used, the flavor of lungo is often described as milder and less concentrated than espresso.
The longer extraction time also affects the aromatic profile of the coffee, resulting in a more subtle and nuanced aroma. While some people prefer the boldness of espresso, others enjoy the smoothness and balanced flavors of lungo.
Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference when it comes to choosing between these two coffee options.
Caffeine content
Lungo coffee has a higher caffeine content compared to an espresso shot. This is because more water is used in the brewing process, extracting more caffeine from the coffee grounds.
The extended extraction time also contributes to a stronger caffeine concentration. However, despite having more caffeine, the flavor of lungo coffee may be perceived as milder due to the larger volume of water used.
Lungo coffee can still provide a good energy boost for those who prefer a longer and stronger coffee beverage option.
Lungo vs Other Coffee Drinks
Lungo differs from other coffee drinks such as Americano and Espresso due to variations in brewing method, taste, aroma, and caffeine content.
Lungo vs Americano
“Lungo and Americano are both espresso-based beverages, but they are prepared differently and have distinct tastes.”
| Lungo | Americano |
|---|---|
| Lungo is made by allowing hot water to pass through a greater amount of coffee grounds, resulting in a larger volume of brewed coffee. | Americano is made by pouring a shot of espresso over hot water to dilute it. |
| The extraction time for a lungo is typically around 30 seconds or longer, extending the beverage’s taste and its volume. | The extraction time for an Americano does not vary because the additional water is added after the espresso shot has been pulled. |
| Lungo has a more dilute flavor compared to espresso due to the increased water volume. | The taste of an Americano is similar to drip coffee, but with the strength and complexity of espresso. |
| Lungo can be enjoyed as a standalone beverage or used as a base for other coffee drinks such as lattes or cappuccinos. | Americano is often enjoyed as a standalone beverage because the added water alters the taste of the espresso. |
Lungo vs Espresso
Lungo and espresso are two different types of coffee beverages. While both are made using an espresso machine, they differ in their brewing method, taste, and aroma.
Lungo is made by pulling a longer shot with more water, resulting in a larger volume of coffee compared to espresso. This extra water gives lungo a milder flavor and less concentrated taste than espresso.
On the other hand, espresso is brewed using less water for a shorter extraction time, creating a rich and intense flavor profile. So if you prefer a stronger and bolder coffee experience, go for an espresso shot. But if you enjoy a milder brew with more volume to savor, try out the lungo instead.
Lungo vs Ristretto
Lungo and ristretto are two different coffee beverages made using an espresso machine. While lungo means “long” in Italian, ristretto translates to “restricted” or “limited.” The main difference between the two lies in the brewing method and taste.
A lungo is made by pulling a shot of espresso with more water and a longer extraction time. This results in a larger volume of brewed coffee compared to a regular espresso shot. A ristretto is made by extracting less water through the same amount of coffee grounds as an espresso shot, resulting in a smaller volume.
In terms of taste, lungo coffee has a more dilute flavor due to the increased water volume. It can be described as milder and smoother than espresso. In contrast, ristretto has a stronger and more concentrated flavor because it uses less water during extraction.
Both lungo and ristretto can be enjoyed on their own or used as bases for other coffee drinks like lattes or cappuccinos. The choice between them ultimately depends on personal preference for either a longer and milder cup or a shorter but bolder shot of espresso-based coffee.
Conclusion
The term “lungo” is used to describe the larger volume of a coffee beverage compared to a regular espresso shot. It comes from the Italian word for “long,” reflecting the extended extraction time and increased water volume used in making lungo coffee.
This results in a milder flavor profile that can be enjoyed on its own or as a base for other coffee drinks like lattes or cappuccinos.
FAQ
What is a lungo?
A lungo, also known as long coffee or extended espresso, is a lengthened shot of espresso where extra water makes the volume larger and the taste diluted.
Why is it called a Lungo?
It’s called “Lungo”, which means ‘long’ in Italian, because this type of drink uses more water thus making the brew prolonged and the coffee shot longer than usual.
How does a lungo differ from a normale or short black?
Unlike the concentrated normale or short black coffee shots, Lungos are stretched shots with increased volume due to extra water used during brewing process resulting in lighter tasting but lengthier coffees.
Is Lungo considered as ‘watered-down’ espresso?
Yes! A lungo is often compared to a ‘watered-down’ espresso because it has more water content making its taste less strong than traditional espressos.
