Lungo: The Extended Espresso Experience

Let’s step out of the espresso norm to look deeper at the Lungo, a delicious variant of the traditional espresso shot. Lungo, from the Italian word for ‘long,’ offers a unique coffee experience worth exploring.

Embarking on the Lungo Journey: A Longer Espresso Shot

Among the many espresso-based beverages, the Lungo stands apart due to its longer extraction process, offering a different perspective on espresso’s intense flavors.

What is a Lungo Espresso Shot?

A Lungo is essentially a ‘long’ espresso, brewed by allowing more water to pass through the coffee grounds. This method results in a larger, less concentrated coffee that brings out the more bitter and acidic flavors often lost in a traditional espresso.

Coffee Grind Size For A Lungo Coffee

For a Lungo, a grind slightly coarser than that used for espresso is recommended. This allows the water to flow through the coffee more freely, extracting a wider range of flavors.

Coffee Roast Recommendation For A Lungo Coffee

A medium to dark roast is preferred for a Lungo. These roasts can withstand the longer extraction time without becoming overly bitter.

Brewing the Perfect Lungo at Home

Ingredients

• Freshly ground coffee beans (slightly coarser than espresso grind)
• Water

How to Make Lungo Coffee

1. Prepare your espresso machine by cleaning and warming up the components.
2. Fill the portafilter with the ground coffee, making sure not to pack it too tightly.
3. Attach the portafilter to your machine and start the brewing process.
4. Allow around 60-90 ml of water to flow through the coffee.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Lungo.

Savoring the Lungo Experience

Aroma

The aroma of a Lungo is a complex mix of the coffee’s rich, earthy base notes, combined with the bright, acidic top notes that are brought out by the extended extraction process.

Taste

In terms of taste, a Lungo offers a more balanced profile than a traditional espresso. The longer brewing time allows for a fuller extraction, resulting in a coffee with a robust body and complex flavor.

Sensation

Drinking a Lungo offers a layered experience. The initial taste is similar to that of an espresso, but as you sip, you’ll discover more bitter and acidic notes that offer a new dimension to the coffee.

Variations and Expert Tips for Your Lungo

If you’re up for an experiment, consider adjusting the water volume or extraction time to modify your Lungo’s flavor profile. Just remember, the key to a great Lungo is balance.

Nutritional Information

A standard Lungo contains around 9-12 calories, virtually no fat, 2 grams of carbohydrates, and 0.6 grams of protein.

FAQs – Lungo Coffee Recipe

What’s the Difference Between a Lungo and an Americano?

While both drinks are larger and less concentrated than a standard espresso, an Americano is made by adding hot water to an espresso, whereas a Lungo is created by allowing more water to flow through the coffee during extraction.

Why Does My Lungo Taste Bitter?

Bitterness in a Lungo can be a result of over-extraction. Consider adjusting your grind size or brewing time.

Can I Make a Lungo With Any Coffee Roast?

While you can technically make a Lungo with any roast, medium to dark roasts are typically recommended as they can handle the longer extraction time without becoming overly bitter.

Wrapping Up Lungo Coffee Recipe

The Lungo offers an inviting venture into a less-explored corner of the espresso world. It takes the concentrated strength of an espresso and stretches it into a longer, more nuanced experience. So brew your homemade Lungo, sit back, and take the time to savor the extended espresso journey. Happy brewing!

Find new and classic coffee drinks in our guide here.