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Coffee is an integral part of Italian culture, with many starting their day with a cup of espresso. You can find coffee shops on almost every corner in Italy, and each region has its own unique coffee culture. From rich and creamy cappuccinos to strong and bitter espressos, there is an Italian coffee for everyone.
In this guide, we’ll take a look at some of the different types of Italian coffee, as well as the history and culture behind this beloved beverage.
History of Italian Coffee
Have you ever wondered why there are so many types of Italian coffee? It all has to do with the history and culture of coffee in Italy. Coffee was first introduced in Venice in the 16th century, but it didn’t become popular until the 17th century.
Italians love coffee and the country is responsible for introducing the beverage to the rest of Europe.
Italian Tribune
At first, only the upper class consumed coffee, but it quickly became a staple drink for all Italians. By the 18th century, coffeehouses were a common sight in Italy, and they soon became social hubs where people would gather to discuss politics and current events.
It wasn’t until the 19th century that coffee really took off in Italy. This was thanks to innovations like the coffee roaster and the espresso machine, which made it easier to produce and consume coffee.
Now that we’ve looked at the history of Italian coffee, let’s take a closer look at some of the different types of coffee you can find in Italy.
Types of Italian Coffee
Coffee is an important part of Italian culture, and there are many different types of coffee to choose from.
Here are some of the most popular types of Italian coffee:
Espresso
Espresso is the most common type of coffee in Italy, and it’s also the basis for many other types of coffee. It’s made by forcing hot water through finely ground coffee beans, resulting in a strong and concentrated coffee.
If you order a coffee in Italy, chances are it will be an espresso. It’s typically served in a small cup, and it can be drunk on its own or with a bit of sugar.
Caffè Americano
Caffè Americano is essentially an espresso with hot water added to it. It’s a popular choice for those who want a less strong coffee, as the hot water helps to dilute the espresso.
Cappuccino
Cappuccino is one of the most popular types of Italian coffee. Cappuccino comprises one part espresso and steamed milk, with a layer of foam on top. It is usually served in a small ceramic cup, and it is often enjoyed with breakfast or as a mid-morning snack.
Cappuccino has a creamy texture and a rich flavor, with a hint of sweetness. You can make the foam top light and airy by steaming milk, and some people also like to dust it with chocolate or cinnamon.
Caffé Latte
Latte is another popular type of Italian coffee, and it contains the best Italian espresso beans and steamed milk. It is similar to a cappuccino, but it has a higher ratio of milk to espresso.
Latte is usually served in a tall glass, and it’s a popular choice for breakfast or as an afternoon pick-me-up. Latte has a creamy texture and a mild flavor, with a hint of sweetness. The steamed milk gives it a smooth and velvety texture.
Caffè Macchiato
Macchiato lies in between a cappuccino and espresso, but it has a more robust espresso flavor. It’s espresso and a small amount of steamed milk, with a dollop of foam on top.
A macchiato is generally presented in a tiny cup, and people like to drink it at any time of the day. Macchiato has a solid and bitter flavor, with a hint of sweetness from the steamed milk to balance out the strong espresso flavor.
It’s a strong coffee that is perfect for those who need an extra energy boost.
Marocchino
Marocchino is a type of Italian coffee made with espresso, chocolate, and milk. It is just like a cappuccino, but it has a chocolate flavor balanced out by espresso and milk.
The chocolate gives it a rich and creamy texture, while the espresso provides a bitterness to balance out the sweetness.
Shakerato
Shakerato is a perfect choice for those hot summer days. Basically, it combines espresso, sugar, and ice cubes in a cocktail shaker until it is frosty. The coffee is then strained into a glass and served with a straw.
Shakerato has a sweet and icy flavor, with a strong coffee flavor from the espresso. It’s refreshing and ideal for hot weather.
Lungo
Lungo means long in Italian, and it is a type of coffee made with twice the amount of water. It is similar to an Americano but has a stronger coffee flavor. Lungo is made by brewing espresso with twice the amount of water, resulting in a weaker and more watery drink.
It is best for those who want a strong coffee flavor without the espresso’s bitterness.
Takeaway
Italian coffee is more than just a morning cup of coffee. There are many Italian espresso brands to choose from, so you can find the perfect coffee for your taste. Whether you want a strong and bitter espresso or a sweet and creamy latte, there is an Italian coffee for you.