Standing at the Front of the Coffee Line. . . .What’s Hot?
Coffee is hot, in more ways than one. Every day, millions of people pick up their lattes or cappuccinos as they rush between tasks or when they need a moment to relax. However, have you ever paused to wonder “What’s in my latte?” or “What exactly is espresso?”
Ordering an espresso beverage should be fun, not intimidating. And you shouldn’t need a degree in coffee studies.
So what is espresso?
The term espresso was first coined in Milan, Italy in the early 20th century and literally translates to “quick” in Italian. While many of us think that espresso is a bean, it’s not. An espresso “shot” is pulled by forcing hot water through finely ground coffee beans in an espresso machine.
In a recent survey sponsored by Starbucks Coffee Company, only a third of Americans are aware of all beverages that contain espresso. Although many coffee house enthusiasts don’t know espresso is a flavor that they already enjoy, it has become the core of limitless beverages around the world. The popular coffee house Starbucks relies on the consistently dense, caramel-like sweetness and smooth finish that the Espresso Roast brings to keep the intense coffee flavor lingering once you take your first sip.
To help make ordering espresso simple, Dave Olsen, the creator of Starbucks Espresso Roast offers tips to ensure you know “what you drink:”
* Know the Beverages. The menu board can be vast at most coffeehouses, so keep these essential espresso beverages in mind as you order: caffè latte, caffè americano, caffè mocha, macchiato and cappuccino.
* Hot or Cold. Espresso doesn’t always have to be enjoyed warm. Perfect for the hot summer months, any espresso beverage can be ordered “iced” (or served over ice as most coffeehouses refer to their cold beverages).
* Add Flavor or Substitute. Not all beverages match everyone’s tastes. If you want a little more flavor in your beverage, simply ask your barista to add a “pump” of flavored syrup (think caramel, vanilla or hazelnut) or top it off with a little spice, such as nutmeg or cinnamon. Vanilla is the most popular item that espresso drinkers report typically adding when they drink espresso, according to the 2008 Starbucks survey. You can also substitute 2 percent milk for nonfat or even soy.
* Wet or Dry Cappuccino. For the cappuccino fan who likes a little more milk or a little more foam, you can ask for a “wet” cappuccino (more milk than foam) or a “dry” cappuccino (more foam than milk).
* With Room, Please. Eight in 10 Americans who drink espresso report that they typically add items to their espresso. If you like to add your own milk or sweetener from the coffee station bar but find your beverage filled to brim, ask for “with room” and your barista will gladly leave enough space in the cup for added extras.
* Ask a Barista. Still undecided about a beverage? Don’t be afraid to ask a barista for recommendations or suggestions. They will be more than happy to match your taste preferences with the perfect beverage.
Courtesy of ARAcontent
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