Lungo Coffee: The Best Coffee Beans for Making Lungo and a Guide to Preparing Lungo Coffee
What is Lungo Coffee?
This is a question many newcomers to the world of coffee ask. The answer is that Lungo is a type of coffee derived from espresso. In Italian, lungo means “long,” referring to the extended time water passes through the coffee grounds.
This drink belongs to the espresso family, but its volume is almost twice that of a standard espresso shot. Lungo gained popularity in Italy in the 1940s and today has many fans worldwide. Its origin traces back to traditional Italian cafés, where baristas discovered that by adjusting the extraction time, they could create new flavors.
Difference Between Espresso and Lungo
The main difference between espresso and Lungo lies in the amount of water and the extraction time. A regular espresso is about 30 ml and takes 20–30 seconds to prepare. In contrast, Lungo is around 60 ml, and its extraction time reaches 60 seconds. This difference in preparation method results in a distinct flavor.
In terms of taste, Lungo is more bitter than espresso because the longer contact time between water and coffee grounds extracts more bitter compounds. Espresso, on the other hand, is stronger and more concentrated due to using less water. The coffee-to-water ratio in espresso is 1:2, while in Lungo, it is 1:4.
Difference Between Lungo and Americano
A common misconception among coffee lovers is that Lungo and Americano are the same. However, these two beverages differ significantly. In Lungo, the full volume of water (about 60 ml) passes directly through the coffee grounds at once.
Americano, however, is a standard espresso shot to which hot water is added afterward. The flavors of these drinks are also different.
Lungo has a deeper, more bitter taste because all the water passes through the coffee grounds. Americano tastes lighter, similar to filter coffee.
Additionally, the final volume of an Americano is usually larger than a Lungo. The extraction method in Lungo also releases more caffeine compared to Americano.
Best Coffee Beans for Making Lungo
Choosing the right coffee beans for preparing Lungo espresso is crucial. Baristas usually prefer medium or light roasted beans, as these roasts work better with the larger water volume in Lungo.
For the best results, select premium specialty coffee in Iran or beans from trusted sources such as Arabica coffee beans exporter in Iran and ground coffee exporter in Iran. Coffee lovers often recommend coffee beans for roasting from regions like Ecuador, Peru, or Ethiopia with mild fruity notes, which are ideal for Lungo.
A blend of Arabica and Robusta beans creates a balanced flavor in Lungo coffee. Diamante Coffee, by offering specialty blends for cafés, provides a variety of options for preparing Lungo. The coffee grind for Lungo should be slightly coarser than for espresso to prevent excessive bitterness. Freshly roasted coffee beans deliver a better taste in the final drink.
How to Prepare Lungo Coffee
Preparing Lungo coffee is easier than you might think. To start, you need an espresso machine. First, grind the coffee beans. the grind should be slightly coarser than what you use for espresso. Place about 7 to 9 grams of coffee grounds into the portafilter.
Using a tamper, press the coffee evenly; this step is crucial for uniform extraction. Attach the portafilter to the machine and start the extraction process. Unlike a regular espresso, allow the water to pass through the coffee for about 60 seconds so that the final volume reaches approximately 60 ml. If your machine has a Lungo button, you can use it; otherwise, control the timing manually. Serve the Lungo coffee in a suitable cup and enjoy immediately.
Benefits of Drinking Lungo Coffee
One of the main benefits of Lungo coffee is its higher caffeine content compared to regular espresso. This feature comes from the longer extraction time, which allows more caffeine to be drawn from the coffee beans. For those who need extra energy in the mornings, Lungo is a great choice. Like other coffees, Lungo is also rich in antioxidants.
Lungo offers a balanced flavor that appeals to people who find espresso too strong and Americano too weak. Its larger volume compared to espresso gives you more time to enjoy your coffee. Studies suggest that regular coffee consumption is associated with a reduced risk of conditions such as type 2 diabetes and certain heart diseases.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between Lungo and Americano is important for every coffee lover. Lungo, with its unique flavor profile, delivers a world of aroma and taste. This beverage, rooted in the heart of Italian coffee culture, is a masterful combination of scientific precision and barista creativity.
When you learn the correct method to prepare Lungo and select the right beans, you can experience the same quality at home as served in cafés. Diamante Coffee provides high-quality beans and practical guidance for making this drink. For cafés and retailers, options like Wholesale Coffee Blend in Iran and Robusta coffee beans wholesale in Iran offer reliable sources for premium ingredients. Coffee enthusiasts can also explore events like the Iran Specialty Coffee Expo to discover specialty beans and the latest trends in coffee. This classic Italian coffee is definitely worth trying.