20 Aug How to Drink Coffee Like an Italian
With the list of Italian coffee types available, it is easy to get overwhelmed when deciding which one to try! The Italian coffee scene is vast, and most people that visit Italy are eager to experience the different types of Italian coffees first hand.
This article will look at the most popular types of Italian coffee and tips on how to drink each of them. While each one is not available at Amato Gelato Café, feel free to contact us with any special requests, we would be delighted to hear from you!
Caffé /Espresso
Caffé is a single shot of espresso, and it is the most common type of coffee Italians enjoy. This classic coffee features 25ml of concentrated flavour and is served in a small cup. Caffé is usually drunk after a meal, during a small break, or on the go. When ordering it in an Italian café, it is best to say un caffé rather than un espresso.
Cappuccino
Cappuccino is a famous Italian coffee that has gained widespread recognition throughout the world. It is made with 1/3 espresso-based coffee, 1/3 steamed milk, and 1/3 foam added on top. The best way to drink this coffee is to serve in a 180ml cup or smaller to make it more flavoursome and satisfying.
In Italy, a cup of cappuccino is served for breakfast, and Italians never drink it after 11 am. This is because they believe that the foam and milk will affect digestion. Nevertheless, feel free to order a cup of cappuccino anytime you want and pair it with a sweet croissant!
Caffé Macchiato
If espresso is too strong for you, then you may want to try a caffé macchiato. This Italian coffee includes a shot of espresso and is stained with a drop or two of steamed milk to add a bit of creaminess.
If you want a touch of hot milk, you can order macchiato caldo while macchiato freddo includes a touch of cold milk. You can enjoy this coffee any time of the day since it doesn’t have much milk.
Caffé Latte
Latte means milk in Italy. Therefore, caffé latte is a milky Italian coffee that contains 1/3 espresso, 2/3 heated milk, and some foam. So, if you order this coffee, be ready for a heavy dairy intake! It can be drunk during breakfast by dipping biscuits in it. Italian never take this after 11 am on a full stomach because it is milky.
Marocchino
Marocchino is a traditional Italian coffee made by combining a long shot of espresso, cocoa powder, a layer of foamed milk, and more cocoa on top. Originally, Marocchino was served in a small glass that was dusted with cocoa powder. Today, the recipe for this coffee can vary from one region to another.
Caffé d’Orzo
If you would like caffeine-free, caffé d’Orzo is worth considering. This coffee became popular during the Second World War when the price of coffee increased. Consequently, Italians turned to barley to make a beverage that is considered safe for children and those intolerant to caffeine. This is also perfect for those late nights.
Caffé Americano
The Caffé Americano is a lighter alternative to espresso since it is made with more water. Hot water is added to dilute the coffee after the brewing process and it is served in a big ceramic cup. Although it is weaker than espresso, it is stronger than American-style coffee.
Caffé Shakerato
The Shakerato is considered an Italian summer coffee that is great for those hot days. This coffee combines three ingredients into a shaker, including a long espresso, sugar, and ice cubes.
The ingredients are then poured into a conical glass using a strainer. The cold-sweetened coffee forms at the bottom, while a thin layer of foam forms at the top. Shakerato is best-served post-meal.
Caffé Ristretto
The café Ristretto has a more concentrated flavour than espresso because it is made with less water. It has a perfect balance of sweet and bitter taste and is ideal if you have time for one sip. Its rich and smooth taste emanates from a blend of Arabica coffee beans.
Caffé al Ginseng
A lesser-known Italian coffee that is used to cure stress and fatigue. It is made with Ginseng extract, an energizing and digestive root that helps with digestion and increases energy. The coffee is naturally sweet and is acceptable to take after lunch or dinner.
Italian Coffee in Calgary
We hope you enjoyed our guide to some of the most famous Italian coffees. We offer many of the more popular ones at our Italian café in Calgary.