Guide to different black coffees (espresso based)
A black coffee is a coffee with no milk or cream added. It will in some form consist of only coffee and water. The flavour of coffee can vary considerably depending on the amount of coffee used, the amount of water allowed to pass through the coffee and the amount of water added after. Read our milk coffees guide for a list of alternative coffee types
Espresso
Water forced at high pressure through Approx 18 grams of finely ground coffee, resulting in a 30ml shot of espresso
Ristretto
“Restricted shot” of espresso. The same amount of coffee is used as for an espresso but less water is passed through the coffee, resulting in a stronger, less watery shot. Resulting drink will be about 15ml
Americano
An americano is espresso topped up with hot water
Long Black
A long black is hot water with an espresso shot added to it.
Doppio
Double espresso – 60ml coffee. Double the amount of coffee grains are used so the concentration is the same as an espresso
A Visual Guide
Comparison
Difference between a long black and an americano
An americano has water poured over espresso and a long black has espresso poured into (on top of) water. The resulting difference is that a long black will have a creama on the top. There is a bit of a difference in flavour. The long black will have a more intense flavour from the top of the cup as the crema has settled and remains in place.
Difference between a espresso and ristretto
An espresso is a 30ml shot and a ristretto is a 15ml shot. A ristretto is a stronger more concentrated shot. The same amount of ground coffee is used for both types of drink. A ristretto is stronger but should also be sweeter and less bitter in flavour. If you are using a special type of single origin coffee where you want to be able to taste the different notes, a ristretto might help to achieve this in some cases
Tips for creating a long black with a decent crema
- Heat the cup
- Don’t have your hot water too hot (around 75-80 degrees)
- Pour espresso in slowly and carefully
Black Coffee Brewing Methods
There are several different brewing methods for making black coffee, each of which produces a unique flavour profile and character. Here are some of the most popular brewing methods:
1. Percolator: Drip coffee makers are common household appliances that automate the process of brewing coffee. Water is heated and then dripped over ground coffee in a filter, extracting flavor as it passes through and drips into a carafe or pot below.
2. French Press: Also known as a cafetiere or plunger pot, the French press brewing method involves steeping coarsely ground coffee in hot water for several minutes. After steeping, a metal mesh plunger is pressed down to separate the grounds from the brewed coffee.
3. Pour Over manual filter: In pour-over brewing, hot water is manually poured over a bed of coffee grounds in a filter. This method allows for precise control over the brewing process, including water temperature, flow rate, and extraction time.
4. Aeropress: The Aeropress is a portable coffee maker that uses air pressure to force hot water through coffee grounds. It combines elements of immersion and pressure brewing, resulting in a smooth and flavorful cup of coffee in a relatively short brewing time.
5. Espresso Machine: Espresso is a concentrated form of coffee brewed by forcing hot water through finely ground coffee under high pressure. While espresso is often enjoyed on its own, it can also serve as a base for various coffee-based drinks, such as lattes, cappuccinos, and macchiatos.
6. Cold Brew: Cold brew coffee is made by steeping coarsely ground coffee in cold water for an extended period, typically 12 to 24 hours. The result is a smooth, mellow brew with lower acidity compared to hot-brewed coffee. Cold brew can be served over ice or diluted with water or milk.
7. Moka Pot: Also known as a stovetop espresso maker, the Moka pot brews coffee by passing boiling water pressurised by steam through ground coffee. The brewed coffee collects in the upper chamber of the pot and is then poured into cups.
8. Siphon Coffee Maker: Siphon brewing, also called vacuum brewing, uses a two-chambered glass or metal device where vapor pressure and vacuum produce coffee. Water is heated in the lower chamber and forced into the upper chamber, where it infuses with coffee grounds. When removed from heat, the brewed coffee is drawn back down into the lower chamber due to the vacuum created.
