Americano Coffee History

5 min read MAR 28, 2022

There’s nothing better than a morning cup of joe to get your day started. For many coffee connoisseurs who enjoy their morning brew without milk or sugar, the Americano is a great go-to drink. 

But where did this coffee get its start? Caffè americanos or americano coffee has a rich history that perfectly matches its rich and flavorful taste. While some coffee shops may offer a variety of intricate drinks, the appeal of an americano coffee is largely rooted in its simplicity. 

Our quick breakdown of where the Americano comes from and how to make the perfect caffè americano gives you everything you need to know about your favorite drink. 

The History of the Americano Coffee


Coffee in America


As its name suggests, the americano is largely rooted in American coffee culture. But before you can understand how the americano came to be, it's important to understand the background of coffee in America. history of americano coffeeAs part of their colonization of the new world, the British brought coffee to America in the 17th century. In the early days of the American colonies, however, tea was largely the caffeinated drink of choice. 

But coffee didn't really gain popularity until the American Revolution. The Revolution sparked a cultural shift in the United States, and Americans began to distance themselves from the British and symbols of their culture. 

Because of their disdain for the British and the uproar following the Boston Tea Party, Americans began to drink coffee instead of tea. This act symbolized their freedom from British oppression, and pretty soon, coffee became a staple in almost every American household. 

During the Civil War, many soldiers began to drink coffee because it was inexpensive and relatively easy to source. It could also last for months without spoiling, which made it ideal for the troops. And it was this love for coffee among American soldiers that led to the birth of the americano coffee. 

How the Americano came to be


During World War II, American soldiers were forced to ration their food and drink - including coffee. Luckily for soldiers that were stationed in Italy, there was more than enough coffee to go around. 

Italy is known for its gorgeously rich espressos and cappuccinos, but for many U.S soldiers, Italian coffee was much stronger and darker than they were used to. Americans had become accustomed to drip-brew coffee and often added milk to their coffee to cut through the bitterness. the history of americano coffeeBecause of this, more restaurants and cafés in Italy began serving “Caffè Americano” or American coffee’ to soldiers from the U.S. To make the Americano coffee, they would add hot water to a shot of espresso, leaving enough room for the soldiers to add milk to their americano coffee. 

When soldiers compared the difference between americano coffee and espresso, they found that the americano had a much lighter taste because it had been diluted. And, since this was similar to the coffee that they were used to, it became a staple among the U.S troops.

How to Make an Americano


Making an Americano is a relatively simple and quick process. 

To start off, you’ll need to brew an espresso. You can do this using most coffee or dedicated espresso machines. Then, you can pour hot water into your coffee cup before adding the espresso. 

Generally, you add the hot water before adding the espresso to your cup. 

While you can add your water to your espresso, you may lose some of the beautiful froth on top of your espresso. This froth, known as crema, is a creamy layer that sits on top of your brew and is typically the mark of a well-made espresso. A crema should also be present in a well-made americano. 

A wonderfully rich americano is usually made with two shots of espresso, which are then added to as much hot water as you like. Of course, you can always add more or less water to suit your taste. 

Americano coffee is also pretty versatile and can suit almost any type of coffee drinker. Some variations on an americano include an iced americano - which is made using espresso, cold water, and ice cubes - and a short americano. Short americanos are made with equal parts espresso and water. what is the history of americano coffeeWhile americanos are typically served without any milk or dairy alternative, you can always add sugar and milk to taste. For a lighter taste, you can add milk to cut through the bitterness and create a creamier cup of coffee. 

Americanos are the perfect coffee for experimenting with a dairy alternative, too. The dark, nutty flavor of the espresso pairs beautifully with nut-based milk alternatives like almond or cashew milk and can add a hint of sweetness to your brew without having to add any sugar or sweeteners. 

To get the best tasting Americano, it’s better to use darker roast coffee beans. Dark roast coffee beans, like the ones we offer at Lifeboost, create a richer, more intense flavor. 

By using dark roast beans, you need less coffee to get the dark, flavorful americano you desire. 

Not only is Lifeboost coffee delicious and rich, but it’s also free from mycotoxins and other harmful pesticides. By using Lifeboost coffee beans, you can be sure that you’re going to start your morning the right way, every day. 

Conclusion


If you want to elevate your morning cup of coffee without adding anything to your brew, then an americano coffee is a great choice. They are easy and quick to make, and with Lifeboost’s dark roast coffee beans, you can enjoy the perfect cup of coffee every morning.

Americano coffee can also work for everyone. If you enjoy a lighter taste, just add milk. Similarly, you can create an iced version of the traditional caffè americano to help you beat the heat in the warmer, summer months.

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