Lungo

Lungo is a term commonly used in the world of coffee to describe a longer shot of espresso. The word “lungo” itself means “long” in Italian, which perfectly captures the essence of this particular coffee preparation. When making a lungo, the barista will extract the espresso using the same amount of coffee grounds as they would for a regular shot, but with more water. This additional water allows for a longer extraction time, resulting in a larger volume of coffee with a milder taste. The extended extraction time of a lungo helps to extract more of the flavors and compounds from the coffee grounds, producing a coffee that is less concentrated and more diluted than a traditional espresso shot. This dilution leads to a milder taste profile, with less intensity and bitterness compared to a regular shot. The longer extraction time also means that more caffeine is extracted from the coffee grounds, making a lungo slightly stronger in terms of caffeine content compared to a regular espresso shot.

The milder taste of a lungo makes it an appealing option for those who prefer a less intense coffee experience. The extended extraction time allows for the development of more subtle flavors, resulting in a smoother and more balanced cup of coffee. The additional water also helps to reduce any bitter or acidic notes that may be present in the coffee, creating a more pleasant and approachable flavor profile. Despite its milder taste, lungo still retains the characteristic qualities of espresso, such as its rich aroma and crema. The crema, which is the golden foam that forms on top of an espresso shot, is still present in a lungo but may be slightly thinner due to the longer extraction time. The aroma of a lungo is also similar to that of espresso, with its strong and enticing scent.

In summary, lungo is a longer shot of espresso with more water, resulting in a milder taste compared to a regular shot. The extended extraction time allows for the development of more subtle flavors, while the additional water helps to reduce bitterness and acidity. Lungo is a great option for those who enjoy the aroma and experience of espresso but prefer a less intense coffee flavor.