Espresso Coffee
When it comes to the type of coffee that Italians drink, the most popular choice is undoubtedly espresso. This strong, flavourful drink is the most widely consumed type of coffee in the country and can be found served in almost all Italian cafes and restaurants. Espresso is made by forcing a small amount of near-boiling water through finely ground coffee beans, resulting in an intense, flavoursome shot of coffee. It is usually served in small cups and is meant to be consumed in just one or two gulps. It is often topped with a sprinkle of chocolate powder, or a twist of lemon peel for added flavour.
Espresso has long been the traditional go-to coffee choice for Italians, with a rich cultural and historical heritage that dates back centuries. It became popularised in the early 19th century and was seen as a signature drink in bars and cafeterias although it was considered a luxury item back then. Today, espresso is considered an everyday coffee and can be accessed in many parts of the country at an affordable price.
In terms of flavour profile, espresso is characterised by its bold, dark flavour and creamy body. The coffee beans used to make it typically have a medium to coarse grind, which is why it often has a slightly bitter taste. It can also be quite acidic but this varies from blend to blend.
Espresso is often served with milk, either as a cappuccino, latte or macchiato. A cappuccino consists of equal parts espresso, steamed milk and froth, whereas a latte has more milk and less froth. A macchiato, on the other hand, is a shot of espresso with a dollop of steamed milk foam on top. All of these drinks are popular with Italians, either as a morning wake-up or an afternoon pick-me-up.
Filter Coffee
Filter coffee is another popular type of coffee consumed in Italy, particularly in the southern region of the country. It is made by passing hot water through ground coffee, resulting in a milder, sweeter and less concentrated brew compared to espresso. It is typically served in a large cup and accompanied with a glass of cold water. Filter coffee is a more economical option compared to espresso, so it is often served in bars and cafes to attract a wider range of customers.
Filter coffee is usually made with lighter and milder coffee beans, compared to the robusta beans used in espresso. This makes it a much smoother and less intense drink and it has a less acidic taste too. It is commonly served with a splash of cold milk or cream, as well as sugar or honey.
Filter coffee is not as widely consumed as espresso, although some people prefer to drink it instead because of its milder flavour and lower caffeine content. It is also favoured by those who are trying to reduce their caffeine intake or need a break from the strength of espresso.
Caffè Veneziano
Caffè veneziano, also known as ‘cafè ristretto’, is a type of espresso made using a shorter extraction process. This results in a stronger, more concentrated espresso with a smoother taste and less acidity. It is typically served in smaller cups and sometimes accompanied by a spoonful of sugar.
Caffè veneziano has been a popular choice in Italian bars for centuries and is typically the preferred drink for after-dinner consumption. It has a sweeter, more complex flavour and a viscous body, making it a luxurious yet refreshing choice. It is typically made by mixing half an espresso shot with half a shot of hot water, giving it its intense yet balanced character.
Other Drinks
Apart from espresso and filter coffee, Italians also enjoy a variety of other coffee drinks, such as caffè Americano and caffè corretto. Caffè Americano is espresso with hot water added to it and is typically served in larger cups. It has a weaker flavour compared to espresso but still retains its classic characteristics. On the other hand, caffè corretto is espresso mixed with a shot of liqueur, such as grappa, brandy or cognac. It is a popular drink to enjoy after dinner as it has an intense, sweet flavour and a warming kick from the alcohol.
Other classic drinks found in Italian cafes include caffè shakerato and caffè freddo. Caffè shakerato is a shaken espresso that is poured over ice, resulting in a refreshing, chilled drink. Caffè freddo is made by pouring cold, brewed espresso over ice. It is a great option for those who prefer a milder and less intense coffee.
Health Benefits
Italians are known for their passion for good food and coffee, and it is no surprise that coffee is an integral part of their daily diet. In addition to being an enjoyable drink, coffee has been linked to a number of health benefits such as improved mental alertness and concentration, lower risk of certain diseases such as diabetes, and reduced risk of certain types of cancer. It is also believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help fight off free radical damage.
Of course, like any other beverage, too much coffee can be bad for health as it can lead to caffeine dependence and other health issues. To stay on the safe side, experts recommend limiting coffee intake to no more than two to four cups per day. Coffee can also be enjoyed in moderation as it is part of an important cultural tradition in Italy.
Coffee Culture
Coffee has been a part of Italian culture for centuries and remains an important cultural ritual for Italians today. Going to a cafe for a coffee is not just about getting a hot cup of espresso, it is a social activity to share with friends or family. Italians enjoy taking the time to sit down and savour their coffee, often accompanied by a pastry or biscuit. During the evening, cafes often serve alcoholic beverages and food as well.
The way Italians consume coffee is also unique compared to other countries. Instead of ordering a ‘latte’ or ‘flat white’, they usually just ask for ‘un caffè’, which basically means an espresso. This tradition goes back to the days when espresso machines were introduced, when the choice was simply between espresso or ‘no espresso’. Today, many Italians still don’t differentiate between different types of coffee.
Conclusion
It is clear that Italians take their coffee seriously, from the types of beans used in espresso to the rituals of consuming a cup in a cafe. Espresso is the most popular type of coffee in Italy, followed by filter coffee and other variations such as caffè Americano and caffè corretto. While caffeine can lead to health concerns if consumed excessively, drinking coffee in moderation can bring a host of benefits. Ultimately, it is up to each individual to decide how much coffee they want to consume, but the Italian coffee culture is certainly one to be admired.
