Lungo coffee is a go-to choice for those who love the boldness of espresso but want a longer, more balanced sip. Meaning “long” in Italian, it’s an extended espresso shot brewed with more water for a slightly milder but richer flavor.
Unlike a regular espresso, a lungo takes longer to extract, which brings out deeper, slightly bitter notes while maintaining that signature espresso intensity.
But how is it different from other coffee styles, and what makes it stand out? Let’s learn what is lungo coffee and why it’s worth a try.
What is Lungo Coffee?
Lungo, meaning “long” in Italian, is a coffee style between a traditional espresso and an Americano. Unlike espresso, which is brewed quickly with a small amount of water, lungo takes longer to extract.
It uses nearly twice as much water while keeping the same coffee grounds. This results in a larger cup with a more developed flavor profile.
The extended brewing time allows more compounds to be extracted from the coffee, producing a slightly more bitter and less intense taste than a standard espresso. However, it retains a bold, rich character without the dilution of an Americano.
Because the water flows through the coffee grounds for a longer period, lungo coffee tends to have slightly more caffeine than a regular espresso. The extra extraction time pulls out additional soluble compounds, leading to its different taste and caffeine content.
How is Lungo Coffee Made?
Brewing a lungo coffee is the same as a traditional espresso but with a few main adjustments. The primary difference is that more water is used during extraction, resulting in a larger and milder cup.
Brewing Method
The coffee brewing method you choose can significantly impact the taste and texture of your lungo. You need an espresso machine to make this type of coffee, which is the most effective way to control brewing. The grind size for lungo is the same as espresso, but the extraction time is longer, usually 30 to 50 seconds.
This lungo brewing method allows the water to extract more flavors from the coffee grounds, producing a more rounded taste. Compared to a typical espresso, you’ll use roughly double the amount of water, which helps create the larger, less intense cup characteristic of a lungo.
Required Equipment
To brew a perfect lungo, you’ll need:
- Espresso Machine: For precise control over pressure and water temperature.
- Freshly Ground Coffee: Use high-quality beans ground to the same consistency as espresso.
- Cup: Choose a larger cup than you would for a standard espresso to accommodate the increased volume.
With this method, you can enjoy a smooth, lungo coffee flavor with more caffeine and a milder profile than a regular espresso. Moreover, while using a French press is a popular method for brewing coffee at home, it’s best to stick with an espresso machine to make a perfect lungo.
Comparison with Espresso and Americano
When comparing Lungo coffee to Espresso and Americano, it’s important to understand the differences in preparation and flavor profiles.
Espresso:
Espresso is known for its bold and concentrated flavor. It’s made by forcing hot water through finely ground coffee at high pressure for a very short extraction time, usually around 25 to 30 seconds. This quick process results in a small, intense shot of coffee, typically 1 ounce (30 mL), with a rich cream on top.
Americano:
An Americano is made by diluting a shot of espresso with hot water after brewing. The result is a milder, larger cup of coffee, usually 6 to 8 ounces. While an Americano may taste similar to drip coffee, it’s still made from espresso, so the flavor base is much richer and smoother than regular brewed coffee.
Lungo:
A lungo shares similarities with espresso but differs in its longer extraction process. The water used for brewing is approximately double the amount of espresso, achieving a milder, less intense flavor.
Unlike the Americano, however, no extra water is added after brewing; the larger volume is achieved through the extended brewing time, typically 30 to 50 seconds.
This extended extraction results in a cup with a higher lungo caffeine content than espresso, making it a good choice for those seeking a caffeine boost without the sharp intensity of a traditional espresso. The result is a smoother, slightly more bitter cup than espresso.
Each of these drinks offers a unique coffee experience. Espresso is the most concentrated, Americano is the most diluted, and Lungo is comfortably between the two. At coffee trade shows, experts often highlight these differences through live demonstrations, showcasing how brewing techniques influence flavor, strength, and overall coffee enjoyment.
Long Black vs. Lungo Coffee: Understanding Differences
Both long black and lungo coffee drinks are popular choices, but they differ in preparation, flavor, and serving style.
1. Preparation Method
- Long Black: The long black is made by adding hot water to a shot of espresso. The water is poured over the espresso to preserve the crema and give it a smoother, fuller texture.
- Lungo: Lungo, on the other hand, is prepared by extending the espresso extraction process. More water is used during brewing, resulting in a larger, milder cup without additional water post-brewing.
2. Flavor Comparison
- Long Black: With the addition of water, the long black retains much of the espresso’s boldness but has a more diluted intensity. It’s an excellent choice for those who want the espresso flavor but without the extreme concentration.
- Lungo: Compared to espresso, Lungo is milder and smoother, with a slightly bitter edge. The extended brewing time extracts more of the coffee’s flavors, leading to a less intense and slightly more balanced cup.
3. Serving and Uses
- Long Black: Commonly served as a standalone beverage for those who prefer a balanced, rich coffee with the essence of espresso but without a strong punch.
- Lungo: Ideal for sipping, the lungo is usually enjoyed as a lighter option. Its smoother texture and milder flavor make it a refreshing choice for those who enjoy coffee without the concentrated strength of espresso.
While both drinks are based on espresso, their differences in preparation and flavor make them distinct coffee experiences.
Why Choose Lungo Coffee?
Lungo coffee is a great option for coffee drinkers who are looking for a gentler yet flavorful coffee experience. For many, it’s more than just a drink—it’s a coffee ritual, offering a moment to slow down and savor the rich, smooth flavors. Here’s why it might be the perfect choice for you:
- Taste Preferences: If you enjoy a milder, less concentrated cup of coffee, lungo is the best option. Its longer brewing process results in a smoother flavor with a subtle bitterness, perfect for those who appreciate a more nuanced coffee without the intense kick of espresso.
- Larger Serving Size: Lungo provides a larger cup than espresso, perfect for those who want to enjoy their coffee longer. Whether you’re relaxing at home or work, a lungo offers a satisfying serving size perfect for sipping.
- Health and Digestibility: Lungo’s extended brewing time can help reduce acidity, making it gentler on the stomach than espresso. For coffee lovers who may find espresso too harsh on their digestive system, lungo offers a smoother alternative that retains much flavor but has fewer digestive concerns.
In fact, with 36% of people drinking 3 to 5 cups of coffee daily, a smooth, enjoyable, longer-lasting coffee style like lungo is perfect for those seeking to savor their coffee more gradually and less intensely. However, decaf coffee offers a suitable alternative for those sensitive to caffeine or who prefer to limit their intake.
Conclusion
Lungo coffee offers a milder and smoother alternative to espresso. Its longer extraction process and more water result in a larger cup, which is excellent for those who enjoy a gentler flavor but still crave the depth of coffee.
With a slightly higher caffeine content and a smooth taste, lungo is perfect for leisurely sipping and a great addition to any coffee ritual. The extended brewing also reduces acidity, making it easier on the stomach.
Understanding lungo provides insights into its appeal, whether you’re seeking a lighter coffee or a more gradual coffee experience. Its rich, balanced flavor ensures satisfaction without the intense concentration of a traditional espresso. This versatile, enjoyable option is perfect for a gentler yet flavorful coffee.
