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How to Make an Americano

An Americano is made by combining espresso with hot water to create a longer black coffee with espresso character. It is usually served without milk, and many guides suggest a ratio of about 1 part espresso to 2 parts hot water, though the strength can be adjusted to taste.

Basic ingredients

  • 1 to 2 shots of espresso
  • 90 to 200 ml of hot water, depending on how strong you want it
  • Optional sugar

Method with an espresso machine

  1. Heat the water. Use hot water just below boiling, or around 90 to 93 degrees Celsius if you want more control. See CoffeeGeek, Coffeebroastery, and Mystic Monk Coffee.
  2. Add the hot water to the cup first. Many guides recommend starting with water so the espresso can be poured over it and the crema is better preserved. See CoffeeGeek, Ember, and Taste of Artisan.
  3. Pull the espresso. Brew one or two espresso shots directly over the hot water. See CoffeeGeek, Ember, and this Americano tutorial video.
  4. Adjust the strength. Add more or less water depending on whether you want the drink bolder or lighter. See GROSCHE, Mystic Monk Coffee, and Coffeebroastery.

Method without an espresso machine

  1. Make concentrated coffee. Use a moka pot, AeroPress, or another strong brew method as your espresso substitute. See Mystic Monk Coffee, A Couple Cooks, and GROSCHE.
  2. Heat the water. Bring the water to just under boiling rather than a rolling boil. See Mystic Monk Coffee and Coffeebroastery.
  3. Combine water and coffee. Pour the hot water into a cup, then add the concentrated coffee on top. See Taste of Artisan, GROSCHE, and Mystic Monk Coffee.
  4. Taste and adjust. Add more water if it tastes too intense, or reduce the water next time for a stronger cup. See GROSCHE and Mystic Monk Coffee.

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