Americano Recipe
Make Americano Recipe in just 7m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Coffee
Optional additions
Method
Prepare espresso
Grind and dose
If using whole beans, grind to an espresso-fine grind (very fine) immediately before brewing. Dose about 18–20 g of coffee for a double shot; adjust to your espresso machine's basket.
Tamp and brew
Distribute grounds in the portafilter, tamp evenly with 20–30 lbs of pressure, lock into the machine and brew a double shot (about 2 fluid ounces or two 1-oz shots) into a pre-warmed cup. Brew time should be ~25–30 seconds for typical espresso parameters.
Assemble Americano
Preheat the serving cup by rinsing with hot water, then discard the rinse water.
Pour 6 fl oz (about 180 ml) of hot water (just off boil, about 85–95°C / 185–203°F) into the preheated cup.
Add the double espresso (2 shots) to the hot water. For the traditional 'Americano' method, add espresso to hot water (this preserves crema less but yields the familiar taste). If you prefer more crema, pour hot water over the espresso instead.
Stir gently once to combine.
Taste and adjust strength. If too strong, add up to 0.5 fl oz of room temperature water to dilute slightly; if you prefer sweeter or creamier, add sugar/simple syrup (to taste, start with 1 tsp) or 1 tbsp milk/cream and stir until incorporated.
Serve
Serve immediately while hot. Provide a spoon if sugar or cream is offered.
Optional: garnish with a thin slice of citrus peel or a light dusting of cocoa for variation.