A café menu can easily leave you confused: espresso, ristretto, lungo, americano. They all start in the same espresso machine, but each one ends up as a different drink in the cup. Here is a simple explanation of what a lungo is and how to make one at home.
What is a lungo?
Lungo is Italian for "long". It is an espresso made by running about two to three times as much water through the same amount of coffee. A standard espresso is about 25 to 40 ml, a lungo 60 to 110 ml. The water flows through the coffee for longer, so more flavour compounds end up in the cup.
Lungo, espresso, ristretto and americano
| Drink | How it is made | Volume | Taste |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ristretto | less water through the coffee | 15 to 25 ml | concentrated, sweeter |
| Espresso | the usual amount of water through the coffee | 25 to 40 ml | rich, full-bodied |
| Lungo | more water through the same coffee | 60 to 110 ml | lighter, more bitter |
| Americano | espresso with hot water added in the cup | 120 to 250 ml | milder and smoother |
The main difference between a lungo and an americano is this: with a lungo all the water goes through the coffee, while with an americano most of the water is added to the cup afterwards. That is why a lungo tastes stronger and more bitter, and an americano softer.
Does a lungo have more caffeine?
A little. It uses the same amount of coffee as an espresso, but the longer extraction carries slightly more caffeine into the cup. The difference is small. If you are sensitive to caffeine, keep an eye on how many cups you drink rather than what the drink is called.
How to make a lungo at home
In a capsule machine: most machines that use the Nespresso system have a lungo button or let you set the amount of water yourself. Use a capsule as usual and choose the long drink.
In an espresso machine: use the same amount of coffee as for an espresso and run about twice as much water through it. If it tastes too bitter, try a slightly coarser grind.
On the go: the Outin Nano portable espresso machine makes espresso from ground coffee or capsules. For a longer drink, add hot water to the cup and you have an americano.
Which coffee suits a lungo?
A lungo brings out the more bitter side of coffee, so medium roasts with nutty and chocolatey notes work well. Ra Hygge mushroom coffee is made from organic Peruvian Arabica and is low in acidity. Have a look at our range of mushroom coffees.
Frequently asked questions
Is a lungo the same as an americano?
No. With a lungo all the water goes through the coffee, while an americano is an espresso with hot water added.
Do you drink a lungo with milk?
A lungo is usually drunk black, but you can add milk or a plant-based drink to taste.
How much water is in a lungo?
Usually 60 to 110 ml. On capsule machines the lungo button is often set to about 110 ml.