Creating the Perfect Americano

An Americano is an espresso-based drink that has its origins in the second world war.

A single or double espresso shot is topped up with a little hot water to create a milder alternative to an espresso.

An Americano is the perfect coffee to enjoy any time of the day.

How to Make an Americano

What you’ll need: To make the perfect Americano, you need to start with a great shot of espresso. Check out our guide to making espresso here.Draw 3oz of hot water from your espresso machine into a 6oz cup and pour in the shot of espresso The idea ratio is 50% water to 50% coffee, more coffee than this and you will end with a drink that tastes too strong.

The water needs to be between 76-82°C. Be careful to add very hot water will affect the taste of your coffee.

History of the Americano

During the second world war, American GIs were stationed in Italy. The soldiers were used to drinking large cups drip-brewed coffee with a little milk and found the small espresso shots far too bitter for their taste.

To a accommodate the American troops passing though, Italian coffee shops stated to serve a shot of espresso in a large cup that had been topped up with hot water. Milk and sugar could then be added.

Word quickly spread and the drink was dubbed the ‘caffe Americano’, or in English the ‘American coffee’.

Iced Americano

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

• Shot of Espresso
• Cold Water
• Ice

METHOD

Place ice in a glass and pour over a shot of espresso in a glass top up with equal parts cold water.