Espresso is the heart and soul of many coffee drinks, but it has its variations that appeal to different tastes. One of these variations is the lungo espresso. Known for its smooth, mellow taste and slightly larger size, the lungo is a favorite among those who enjoy a less intense but flavorful coffee experience. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the world of lungo espresso, exploring its definition, origins, brewing method, and why it appeals to coffee lovers worldwide.
What Is the Lungo Espresso?
Lungo, which translates to “long” in Italian, is a type of espresso that is brewed with more water than a traditional espresso. The key difference between a regular espresso and a lungo is the amount of water used and the resulting extraction process. While an espresso is typically brewed with 1 ounce of water, a lungo is made with about 2 ounces of water. This results in a larger, milder cup of coffee compared to the strong, concentrated shot of espresso.
Lungo espresso has its roots in Italy, like many other espresso drinks. In fact, Italians have long enjoyed different variations of espresso, with the lungo offering a more balanced and less bitter alternative to the classic espresso. The drink’s history is tied to the evolution of espresso-making methods and the desire to create different flavor profiles. It became especially popular in Italy and other European countries where coffee culture is deeply embedded.
Brewing Method and Equipment Needed
To make a perfect lungo espresso, you’ll need the right equipment and a good understanding of the brewing process. The equipment and method for brewing a lungo are similar to those used for making a regular espresso, with only a few key differences. Here’s what you need:
Equipment
Espresso machine: You’ll need a high-quality espresso machine capable of controlling water pressure and temperature. Many modern espresso machines have settings for both espresso and lungo, making it easier to prepare this drink.
Coffee grinder: Freshly ground coffee beans are essential for a flavorful lungo. A burr grinder is recommended to ensure consistent grind size, as this will impact extraction.
Portafilter: A standard portafilter is used, just like with regular espresso. It should be clean and free of any old grounds.
Tamper: To press the coffee grounds evenly into the portafilter for optimal extraction.
Scale (optional but recommended): To measure both the amount of coffee grounds and the water volume for a precise brew.
Filtered water: Always use clean, filtered water to ensure the best taste. Water quality plays a significant role in the final cup.
Brewing Method
Grind your coffee: Use a medium-fine grind for your coffee beans. It should be similar to the grind you’d use for espresso but slightly coarser.
Dose your coffee: For a lungo, use about 18-20 grams of coffee grounds. This amount is usually higher than the 9 grams used for a single shot of espresso.
Tamp the coffee: Evenly tamp the coffee grounds in the portafilter, ensuring they are level and well-compressed.
Brew the espresso: Place the portafilter into the espresso machine and start the extraction process. A lungo espresso typically takes between 40-45 seconds to brew, with 2 ounces of water passing through the coffee grounds.
Serve: Pour your lungo into a pre-warmed cup to enjoy.
While the process may seem simple, the key to a perfect lungo is to carefully control the water flow and extraction time. Too much water or a longer extraction can make the coffee too watery and dilute the flavors, while too little water can result in a weak, under-extracted drink.
Volume and Extraction Time Compared to Other Espresso Drinks
The volume and extraction time of a lungo are two key factors that distinguish it from other popular espresso drinks. Let’s compare the lungo to a few other espresso drinks in terms of both volume and extraction time:
Espresso
Volume: 1 ounce (30 ml)
Extraction time: 20-30 seconds
Flavor: Strong, concentrated, and intense with a rich crema on top. Espresso has a high coffee-to-water ratio, making it the most concentrated of all espresso drinks.
Lungo
Volume: 2 ounces (60 ml)
Extraction time: 40-45 seconds
Flavor: Milder than espresso, with a smoother, less bitter profile. The longer extraction time and more water result in a less intense but still flavorful drink.
Ristretto
Volume: 0.75 ounces (22 ml)
Extraction time: 15-20 seconds
Flavor: Stronger than espresso, as it uses less water and is brewed with a finer grind. It’s often considered more concentrated but less watery than a traditional espresso.
Americano
Volume: 6-8 ounces (180-240 ml)
Extraction time: Varies depending on how much water is added to the espresso
Flavor: Milder and more diluted than espresso, as it is made by adding hot water to a shot of espresso.
The longer extraction time and larger volume of a lungo compared to espresso create a drink that is smooth and less bitter but still maintains the coffee’s signature intensity and flavor.
Flavor Characteristics and Why They Appeal to Certain Coffee Lovers
The flavor profile of a lungo espresso is one of its most appealing aspects. Due to the longer extraction time and the use of more water, a lungo is less concentrated than a regular espresso. This results in a coffee that has a smoother, fuller-bodied taste with a subtle sweetness and a bit less bitterness.
Lungo espressos often have the following flavor characteristics:
Mild bitterness: While a lungo is less bitter than a regular espresso, it still retains some of the natural bitterness of coffee. The longer extraction allows for more of the coffee’s oils and flavors to be extracted, reducing harsh bitterness.
Full-bodied taste: The lungo has a slightly thicker mouthfeel compared to an Americano or drip coffee, but it’s not as dense as espresso. It offers a satisfying richness without being overwhelming.
Complex flavors: The extended extraction allows for a more complex flavor profile to emerge. You may notice notes of caramel, chocolate, fruit, or nuts, depending on the coffee beans used.
Sweetness: One of the distinguishing features of a lungo is its natural sweetness, which comes from the longer extraction process. This results in a coffee that is balanced and enjoyable without the sharpness of a regular espresso.
For coffee lovers who prefer a less intense coffee but still want the deep, rich flavors of espresso, the lungo is a great option. It strikes the perfect balance between strength and smoothness, making it ideal for those who find regular espresso too harsh but don’t want the dilution of an Americano.
Cultural Context or Popularity in Specific Regions
The lungo espresso is most popular in Europe, particularly in Italy, where coffee culture is deeply ingrained. In Italy, espresso is a daily ritual, and the lungo provides a milder option for those who find the traditional espresso too intense. It is often enjoyed at cafes throughout Italy and is seen as a versatile coffee that can be enjoyed in the morning or as an afternoon pick-me-up.
In other European countries, such as France and Spain, the lungo has also gained popularity. It is a common choice for coffee drinkers who want a more balanced cup without sacrificing the essence of espresso. In fact, the lungo is sometimes referred to as a “caffè lungo” or “long coffee” in these regions.
In the United States, espresso drinks like the latte, cappuccino, and Americano tend to dominate coffee menus, but the lungo is starting to gain traction among specialty coffee enthusiasts. With the rise of third-wave coffee shops and a growing interest in different brewing methods, the lungo is slowly becoming a sought-after option for those who appreciate the nuances of espresso.
Practical Tips for Making a Perfect Lungo
Making a perfect lungo requires attention to detail, from the grind size to the extraction time. Here are a few practical tips to help you brew a perfect lungo every time:
Use fresh, high-quality coffee beans: The quality of your beans will directly impact the flavor of your lungo. Choose freshly roasted beans with a profile you enjoy, whether it’s fruity, nutty, or chocolaty.
Adjust the grind size: A medium-fine grind is best for a lungo, slightly coarser than an espresso grind. Experiment with grind size to find the sweet spot that produces the best flavor.
Use the right amount of coffee: Use about 18-20 grams of coffee for a standard lungo. This is more than the typical 9 grams for espresso, which helps create a fuller, more balanced flavor.
Control the extraction time: Aim for an extraction time of around 40-45 seconds. If the extraction is too fast, the coffee may taste weak. If it’s too slow, it could become overly bitter.
Serve immediately: Lungo espresso should be enjoyed fresh. The flavors are best when the coffee is still hot, so make sure to serve it right after brewing.
Conclusion
Lungo espresso is a delightful variation of the traditional espresso, offering a smoother, milder, and less bitter flavor profile. Its popularity in Italy and growing appeal worldwide make it a favorite among those who enjoy a more balanced coffee experience. Whether you’re a seasoned espresso drinker or new to the world of coffee, a well-made lungo can be a perfect way to savor the complexities of coffee without the sharpness of a regular espresso. By using the right equipment, ingredients, and brewing method, you can easily make a perfect lungo at home and enjoy a deliciously satisfying cup every time.
Related topics:
- How to Make Good Espresso with a DeLonghi
- What is Ristretto Espresso?
- What is Starbucks Iced Shaken Espresso?
