What is Lungo and how do you make it?

Are you a coffee lover always looking for new flavors and experiences? Then you might be curious about the answer to the question: "What is lungo coffee?" In this blog post, we'll explore this intriguing coffee variety.

Lungo coffee isn't just another type of coffee. It has a unique brewing method known for two distinct methods. The first is the coarser grind, which produces much more output in the same brew time than regular coffee (with a milder flavor). The other method is to increase the brew time by keeping the grind size the same. This often results in a more bitter brew. A combination of the above methods is also an option!

Both methods result in a coffee drink with a higher volume and a milder flavor.

But how do you make a good lungo? And what exactly is the difference between an espresso and a regular cup of coffee? We'll answer these questions in the coming chapters. So keep reading to learn everything about lungo coffee!

A lungo is often considered a superior option to an Americano. A little hint: as a barista, I disagree! I'll delve into this in more detail in the chapter "Lungo vs. Other Coffee Drinks." Read on.

Lungo vs. Espresso

A big question in the coffee world is: "How does lungo coffee compare to espresso?" Well, let's explore! Let's start by breaking down espresso. An espresso is a short, strong cup of coffee brewed in about 25 to 30 seconds using about 18 to 20 grams of coffee. The name "espresso" comes from the Italian word for "express" or "quick," and that's exactly what it is. However, a lungo is a little different.

A lungo, which means "long" in Italian, is prepared by extending the espresso brewing process, allowing more water to flow through the coffee. This results in a larger volume than an espresso, approximately 110 ml instead of the 30 ml of an espresso. However, because the brewing process is longer, the flavor of a lungo is milder than that of an espresso.

As I briefly mentioned in the introduction, this is one of two ways to increase volume. The other method is to grind coarser so you get more coffee in your cup in the same brewing time.

So, what exactly is a lungo coffee compared to an espresso? We could say that a lungo is an "extended espresso." It has a larger volume, a milder flavor, and is brewed over a longer period. But note that a lungo isn't simply an espresso to which you add water, like an Americano. The lungo's brewing method makes it unique.

So, if you're wondering, "What is lungo coffee and how is it different from espresso?" The answer is simple: it's a fuller, milder version of espresso, perfect for those who love the rich flavor of espresso but want something a little less intense.

Lungo vs. other coffee drinks

So let's talk about the Americano . What's an Americano compared to a lungo? An Americano is essentially an espresso diluted with hot water. You could say it's a milder version of the perfect espresso. It's flavorful, rich, yet less intense than an espresso. But the true beauty of the Americano lies in how it's made.

When you make an Americano, you start by brewing the most perfect espresso you can. Then you add hot water to dilute it. This means you can fully concentrate on making the most delicious espresso possible, without worrying about the brew time or how much water to run through the coffee. The result? A milder, yet still incredibly flavorful cup of coffee, without sacrificing quality.

A lungo, on the other hand, requires you to run more water through the coffee. This means you have to increase the extraction time, which can lead to over-extraction of the coffee, resulting in bitterness. In my opinion, a lungo is always a compromise. You're trying to get more volume, but you risk losing the pure, perfect flavor of the espresso.

So, if you're wondering, "What is lungo coffee and how does it differ from an Americano?" my answer is clear: an Americano is a milder, more refined version of an espresso. A lungo, on the other hand, is a game of compromise, where you risk losing the ultimate espresso experience in the attempt to achieve more volume. My advice? If you love the rich flavor of espresso but want a little less intensity, go for an Americano. You won't be disappointed.

The Lungo is also sometimes compared to a "regular coffee." That's a bit of a strange term, of course, but a "regular coffee" is often what we in the Netherlands mean by a Lungo or an Americano. A Café Crème is usually the same as a Lungo.

Setting techniques

Lungo coffee, which literally means "long coffee" in Italian, is a unique brewing method within the world of espresso. The process of making a lungo involves using more water than a standard espresso, but how exactly does this happen?

There are two main methods. The first involves grinding the coffee beans coarsely. This technique results in slower extraction of the water by the coffee, resulting in more liquid without over-extracting the coffee and creating a bitter flavor. The downside is that it's harder to find the right grind, as a grind that's too coarse can result in weak and watery coffee.

The second method, increasing the brew time, allows you to run more water through the same amount of coffee. This runs the risk of over-extraction, which can lead to a bitter, unpleasant flavor. However, if done correctly, you can achieve a lungo that's rich and flavorful, without the intensity of an espresso.

A third method, a combination of coarser grinding and longer brew time, is also possible. This allows you to balance both methods to create the perfect lungo. This requires some experimentation and finesse, but the result can be a lungo that combines the flavorful intensity of an espresso with the milder, more drinkable quality of a regular cup of coffee.

So, what is lungo coffee? It's a unique espresso variation that gives you more volume without sacrificing flavor, provided you find the right balance in the brewing method.

Lungo and caffeine content

The caffeine content of a cup of lungo coffee can vary, depending primarily on the beans used and the brewing method. Many people ask, "What is lungo coffee in terms of caffeine content?" The answer isn't so simple, but let's try to decipher it!

At its most basic, you could say that a lungo contains more caffeine than an espresso because of the extra water used in its preparation. But this isn't always the case. The extra water extends the extraction time, meaning more caffeine is extracted from the beans. However, the caffeine content can also depend on the type of beans used. Robusta beans, for example, generally have a higher caffeine content than Arabica beans .

It's also important to note that while the caffeine content can be higher in a lungo, it's ultimately diluted by the extra water. This means the caffeine concentration per ml can be lower than in an espresso. So, if you're looking for a strong caffeine kick, an espresso might be a better choice. But if you want to enjoy the rich flavors of coffee in a larger volume, a lungo is an excellent option.

So, what is lungo coffee in terms of caffeine content? It's a complex question with an equally complex answer! It ultimately comes down to the beans you use and how you prepare your coffee. But one thing's for sure: a lungo is a delicious way to start the day or take a midday break!

Taste dynamics

If you're wondering what lungo coffee is in terms of flavor, you're not alone. Lungo coffee has a unique flavor dynamic that sets it apart from other coffee varieties. Due to the long extraction time and the added water, lungo has a more complex, slightly bitter, and less concentrated flavor than espresso.

Let's explore the unique flavor dynamics of lungo coffee. The first sip of lungo coffee can instantly captivate your taste buds with its powerful notes. These robust notes are often followed by subtle, sweet undertones drawn from the beans during the longer extraction time. This layering of flavors is what makes lungo coffee so special.

Unlike an espresso, where the flavors are consistent from beginning to end, lungo coffee can change over time. This is because the flavors develop and intensify during extraction. The first sip may be mild or even watery, but as you continue drinking, the coffee becomes stronger and richer.

Lungo, when brewed correctly, is a coffee bursting with flavor, with a unique dynamic that takes you on a delicious journey. It's perfect for those who enjoy strong coffee but also want to experience the subtle sweetness and complexity that comes with a longer extraction time. Whether you're a coffee connoisseur or simply appreciate a good cup of coffee, a lungo can be an exciting and delicious addition to your daily coffee routine.

Popular Lungo variations

Let's get back to the core question: what is lungo coffee? Essentially, lungo coffee is a simple drink, and therefore there aren't many variations. Most variations you'll encounter depend on the brewing method, which we discussed in a previous chapter. Lungo coffee is defined by its longer extraction time and the additional water used compared to espresso.

What you should remember is that there's no fixed version of lungo coffee; it's always a matter of experimenting to get the best flavor. This is where the art of brewing truly becomes important. It's the barista's skill and the choice of beans that ultimately determine how your cup of lungo will taste.

Lungo coffee is often compared to other popular coffee drinks, such as Americano, regular coffee, and café crème. While these drinks are all unique in their own way, they share a similar foundation: they are all based on espresso and all have a less concentrated flavor due to the addition of extra water.

In the case of a lungo, however, there's a difference in how the water is added. The water is forced through the coffee, which lengthens the extraction process, resulting in a more complex flavor profile. With other drinks, the water is added after extraction, resulting in a more diluted version of an espresso.

In short, the answer to the question, "What is lungo coffee?" is simple: it's a delicious coffee drink with a unique flavor dynamic that's well worth discovering.

Tips to master your Lungo ritual

So you're wondering what lungo coffee is and how to make it perfectly? Well, you've come to the right place. The process of making a great lungo requires attention to detail, patience, and, of course, the ability to savor the moment.

Think of it as a ritual. Start by measuring and weighing your coffee. The exact amount is a matter of taste and can vary depending on the type of coffee you use. For some, a little more or less can make the difference between a good and a fantastic lungo.

Next comes tasting. Taste is subjective, so what's perfect for one person might be too strong or too weak for another. It's important to notice what you taste and how you experience it. This will help you refine your technique and understand what works for you.

And here's the twist: while preparing a lungo is an art, it might not be for everyone. If you're looking for consistency and replicability, an Americano might be a better choice. With its simple brewing method and more forgiving nature, it can be the ideal option for those still experimenting with their coffee skills.

Remember, it's your coffee and your ritual. Whether you prefer the complexity of a lungo or the simplicity of an Americano, the most important thing is to enjoy it. So sit down, take a sip, and toast to the perfect cup of coffee!

Conclusion

The world of coffee is one of unparalleled depth and diversity, as clearly demonstrated by the exploration of the lungo. Each cup of lungo promises a carefully orchestrated symphony of flavors and aromas, a balance that requires both art and science.

However, it's important to emphasize that the lungo is just one of many coffees in this rich and diverse world. From the full-bodied, robust espresso to the smooth, subtle Americano, there's a coffee for every taste, mood, and occasion. Each offers its own unique experience and invites experimentation and discovery.

The journey to making the perfect cup of coffee is so much more than following a recipe; it's a constant exercise in refinement, adaptation, and above all, enjoyment.

Whatever your preference, whether you cherish the complexity of a lungo or the simplicity of an Americano, the most important thing is to savor every sip and enjoy your own coffee ritual. So pour yourself a cup, sit down, and raise a glass to the wonderful diversity of coffee!