How to Make a Lungo

A Lungo, an Italian word meaning “long,” is a popular coffee drink known for its extended brewing time compared to a traditional espresso. Originating from Italy, this beverage has gained popularity worldwide due to its unique flavor profile and versatility. While an espresso is quick and intense, a Lungo is brewed with more water, resulting in a milder, yet rich, and robust cup of coffee.

Making a Lungo at home is an excellent way for coffee enthusiasts to enjoy a high-quality, café-style drink without leaving the comfort of their kitchen. Whether you’re looking to explore new coffee varieties or simply prefer a less intense espresso, crafting a Lungo can be a delightful and rewarding experience.

What is a Lungo?

A Lungo is a type of espresso that is made by using more water during the brewing process. The word “lungo” translates to “long” in Italian, reflecting the longer extraction time needed to create this coffee.

How It Differs from an Espresso and an Americano

• Espresso: A traditional espresso is made with a small amount of water (about 1 ounce) forced through finely-ground coffee under high pressure for a short period (25-30 seconds). It results in a strong, concentrated shot of coffee.
• Lungo: A Lungo uses the same amount of coffee grounds as an espresso but is brewed with more water (about 3-4 ounces) over a longer extraction time (45-60 seconds). This creates a larger volume of coffee with a different flavor profile.
• Americano: An Americano is made by adding hot water to a shot of espresso, diluting it to a similar volume as a Lungo but after the extraction process. The Americano has a different flavor because the additional water does not pass through the coffee grounds.

Flavor Profile and Typical Serving Size

A Lungo has a more subdued intensity compared to an espresso, offering a balanced flavor that is less concentrated but still rich. The longer extraction time allows for a more complex flavor profile, often with more bitter notes and a slightly lighter body than an espresso. Typically, a Lungo is served in a 3-4 ounce cup, making it a suitable option for those who enjoy savoring their coffee over a longer period.

How to Make a Lungo

Recipe by Matt Simmons

5.0 from 2 votes

Servings

1

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Calories

5

kcal

A Lungo is a longer-pulled espresso with a rich and robust flavor, perfect for those who enjoy a milder but full-bodied coffee experience.

Ingredients

• 1 shot of espresso

• 3-4 ounces of hot water

Directions

• Preheat your espresso machine.
• Grind 7-9 grams of coffee beans to a fine consistency.
• Tamp the coffee grounds firmly into the portafilter.
• Place the portafilter in the espresso machine and start brewing.
• Allow the extraction to run for 45-60 seconds, producing 3-4 ounces of coffee.
• Serve immediately.

Equipment

• Espresso Machine
• Coffee Cup

Notes

• Use Freshly Roasted Coffee Beans: For the best flavor, always use freshly roasted coffee beans. Fresh beans ensure a more vibrant and aromatic cup of Lungo.
• Consistent Grind Size: A consistent grind size is crucial for an even extraction. A fine grind, similar to that used for espresso, will yield the best results.
• Adjusting Extraction Time: Experiment with the extraction time to suit your personal taste. If you prefer a stronger flavor, reduce the brewing time slightly. For a milder taste, increase the extraction time.
• Regular Cleaning: Regularly clean your espresso machine to maintain its performance and ensure each cup of Lungo tastes its best. Clean the portafilter, group head, and other removable parts after each use.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 5kcal
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g

Conclusion

Making a Lungo at home offers a wonderful way to enjoy a rich and robust coffee that is milder than a traditional espresso. By preparing it yourself, you can control the quality and freshness of the ingredients, ensuring a superior coffee experience. Experimenting with different coffee beans and grind sizes can add variety and help you find your perfect cup. We encourage you to try making a Lungo at home and share your experiences, including any variations or tips you discover along the way. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What type of coffee beans are best for making a Lungo?
   • Answer: Any high-quality, freshly roasted coffee beans can be used to make a Lungo. Medium to dark roast beans are often preferred for their robust flavor profiles, but feel free to experiment with different roasts to find your personal preference.
2. Can I use pre-ground coffee for a Lungo?
   • Answer: While pre-ground coffee can be used, freshly ground coffee beans provide a superior flavor. If using pre-ground coffee, ensure it is finely ground, similar to the consistency needed for an espresso.
3. How can I adjust the strength of my Lungo?
   • Answer: To adjust the strength, you can vary the extraction time. A shorter extraction time will produce a stronger Lungo, while a longer extraction time will result in a milder cup. Additionally, experimenting with the amount of coffee grounds can help you achieve your desired strength.
4. What is the ideal water temperature for brewing a Lungo?
   • Answer: The ideal water temperature for brewing a Lungo is between 195°F and 205°F (90°C to 96°C). This range ensures optimal extraction of flavors from the coffee grounds.
5. How do I know if my espresso machine needs cleaning?
   • Answer: Signs that your espresso machine needs cleaning include a decrease in coffee quality, longer brewing times, and unusual tastes or smells. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the portafilter, group head, and other removable parts, should be done after each use to keep your machine in top condition.