A Caffè Americano is an espresso-based coffee drink made by topping espresso with hot water. The name of the drink has its roots in World War II when American soldiers stationed in Italy diluted the local espresso with hot water to make it less bitter and more familiar. The drink was called “caffè Americano” by the locals and the name has stuck over time. The quality of a Caffè Americano depends on the quality of the espresso and the hot water used to make it. The espresso should be made from high-quality coffee beans, single origin or a highly rated blend. The water should be clean and fresh, heated to either 185°F or 200°F. The two liquids are layered, not combined, to preserve the integrity of the crema.
Americano
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