Lungo Coffee – Preparation and Differences

Are you looking for a delicious Lungo coffee to kick-start your day perfectly? Then you’re in the right place! In this article, you’ll learn everything you need to know about Lungo coffee, from preparation to the best varieties. Make yourself comfortable and enjoy your next Lungo coffee!

The History of Lungo Coffee

Lungo coffee, also known as the “long espresso,” has an interesting history. Originally, Lungo coffee was an invention of Italians who wanted to enjoy a milder and less intense coffee than the classic espresso. Lungo coffee is characterized by a longer extraction time, which allows more water to flow through the coffee grounds, resulting in a larger coffee.

Today, Lungo coffee is popular among coffee lovers around the world. Many cafes offer it as an alternative to espresso, as it provides a milder taste and a fuller aroma. You can also prepare your own Lungo at home using an espresso machine or a coffee maker.

To enjoy a perfect Lungo, it is important to use high-quality coffee beans and measure the right amount of water. There are various preparation methods to achieve the optimal flavor. Some experts recommend an extraction time of up to 60 seconds for Lungo coffee.

The Preparation of Lungo Coffee

If you’d like to prepare your Lungo at home, there are several methods to achieve a perfect result. Below are some tips and tricks to help you out.

1. The Right Amount of Coffee:

To achieve a flavorful Lungo, it is important to use the right amount of coffee. For one cup of Lungo, I recommend about 7 to 8 grams of coffee. This ensures a balanced ratio of flavor and strength. However, the amount depends on various factors such as your machine, grind size, and the coffee beans used. Experiment a little and simply follow your taste.

2. The Grind Size of the Coffee:

The grind size of the coffee plays a crucial role in the preparation of a Lungo. For perfect extraction, the coffee should be ground slightly coarser than for a regular espresso. This prevents the coffee from becoming too strong and bitter while still allowing enough flavors to be captured.

3. The Water Temperature:

The ideal water temperature for preparing Lungo coffee is between 90 and 95 degrees Celsius. Too hot water can burn the coffee and leave an unpleasant taste, while water that is too cold does not extract all the flavors. If you’re already used to preparing espresso, simply keep the temperature as usual.

4. The Brewing Time:

Depending on the machine and personal preferences, the brewing time for a Lungo can vary. For an espresso, the extraction time should be around 25 to 30 seconds. Since we aim to achieve roughly double the amount of coffee for a Lungo, the extraction time needs to be slightly longer. Experiment with the brewing time to find your perfect coffee taste.

The Differences Between Lungo and Espresso

When it comes to coffee, there are many different types and preparation methods. Two of the most popular options are the Lungo and Espresso. But what exactly are the differences between these two coffee beverages?

First of all, Lungo coffee takes longer to prepare compared to an espresso. While an espresso typically contains only 25-30 ml of liquid and is extracted in about 25-30 seconds, a Lungo is extracted with about 50-70 ml of water over a longer time, resulting in a milder taste. The Lungo is therefore less concentrated and has a milder aroma profile.

Another difference lies in the grinding of the coffee beans. Theoretically, no change is necessary here, but it is recommended to grind the beans slightly coarser for a Lungo.

The following table provides a small overview of the differences between espresso and Lungo. Keep in mind that these are based on experience and not strict rules. In the end, it should taste good to you, so feel free to experiment with extraction time and coffee amount.

The Best Lungo Coffee Beans for Home

If you want to enjoy the perfect Lungo coffee at home, choosing the right coffee beans is crucial. Here, you’ll learn what to look out for when selecting beans and which ones are particularly suitable for preparing a delicious Lungo.

1. Origin and Roast: When purchasing coffee beans for your Lungo, pay attention to the origin and roast. A medium roast is best suited for Lungo coffee as it offers a balanced aroma and pleasant acidity.
2. Freshness of the Beans: Freshness is a critical factor for the quality of your Lungo coffee. Make sure the coffee beans are freshly roasted and stored in airtight containers or packaging. Freshly ground beans provide a more intense aroma and better taste.
3. Recommendations for Lungo Coffee Beans: Of course, we recommend Novum Coffee for your Lungo. In our opinion, Lichtblick from Brazil is the best choice for enjoying Lungo. Adventurous coffee drinkers might also want to try Freiheit from Honduras.

With the right Lungo coffee beans, you can enjoy an authentic coffee experience at home. Treat yourself to a cup of Lungo coffee and indulge in its rich aroma and full-bodied taste. Lungo coffee is not just a moment of enjoyment but also an expression of your love for coffee.

Tips for the Perfect Lungo Coffee Crema

If you want to enjoy your Lungo coffee, the crema is an essential part of the flavor experience. The crema is the fine foam layer that forms on the surface of a well-prepared coffee, giving it an intense aroma. Here are some tips to achieve the perfect Lungo coffee crema:

1. Use freshly ground beans: To create a rich crema, it is essential to use freshly ground coffee beans. The fresh aromas are released, and the crema becomes richer and more flavorful.
2. Choose the right coffee type: Not all coffee types are equally suitable for creating crema. Make sure to choose a high-quality coffee type that is ideal for Lungo coffee.
3. Optimize your coffee machine settings: Ensure your coffee machine is set correctly to generate the proper amount of pressure and temperature needed for creating crema.
4. Use the right grind size: The grind size of the coffee beans plays an important role in crema formation. Experiment with different grind sizes to find the ideal one for your taste.
5. Brew the coffee slowly: To achieve a beautiful crema, the coffee should be brewed slowly and evenly. Make sure the coffee does not flow through too quickly, as this could destroy the crema.

Lungo Coffee: Health Aspects and Effects

If you are a coffee enthusiast, Lungo coffee is probably not new to you. But have you ever wondered about the health aspects and effects of this type of coffee?

Compared to a regular espresso, Lungo coffee is brewed longer, which results in a higher caffeine content. This can make you feel more energetic and awake after enjoying a cup of Lungo coffee. However, you should also keep in mind that consuming too much caffeine can have negative effects, such as insomnia or nervousness. Be mindful of keeping your consumption in check and avoid drinking coffee too late in the evening.

Remember, coffee should always be enjoyed in moderation to benefit from its positive properties. If you love Lungo coffee, treat yourself to a cup now and then and savor the moment. Your body and your taste buds will definitely thank you!