What’s the difference between Americano and latte?
Are you a coffee lover who is looking for something new to try? With so many different coffee types available, it can be overwhelming to choose which one to order. Among the most popular coffee drinks are Americano and latte. These two drinks have some similarities, but also some significant differences.
What is Americano?
Americano is a coffee drink that originated in Europe during World War II. It is made by adding hot water to a shot of espresso. This results in a coffee drink that has a similar flavor to drip coffee, but with a higher concentration of caffeine.
The name Americano is said to have come from American soldiers who were stationed in Europe during the war. They were used to drinking drip coffee and found espresso too strong. To make it more palatable, they would add hot water to dilute it, creating the Americano we know today.
What is latte?
Latte is a coffee drink that originated in Italy. It is made by pouring steamed milk over a shot of espresso. The milk and espresso are combined in a ratio of about 1:2, resulting in a creamy and smooth coffee drink.
The name latte comes from the Italian phrase “caffè latte,” which means “milk coffee.” In Italy, latte refers to simply “milk,” so if you order a “latte” in Italy, you will be served a glass of milk.
Americano vs. Latte: The Key Differences
The main difference between Americano and latte is their composition. Americano is a simple and straightforward coffee drink that consists of hot water and espresso. Latte, on the other hand, is a more complex drink that contains espresso, steamed milk, and a small layer of foam on top.
In addition to their composition, Americano and latte also differ in terms of taste. Americano has a more intense and bitter taste due to its higher concentration of caffeine. On the other hand, latte is a milder and sweeter coffee drink due to the addition of milk.
Another difference between the two drinks is their calorie count. Americano is a low-calorie drink, with a typical 8-ounce serving containing only 15 calories. Latte, on the other hand, is a high-calorie drink, with a 12-ounce serving containing around 120 calories due to the added milk.
How to Choose Between Americano and Latte
Choosing between Americano and latte ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a strong and bitter coffee taste, with a higher concentration of caffeine, then Americano is the drink for you. If you prefer a milder and sweeter coffee taste, with a creamy texture, then latte is the way to go.
Additionally, if you are watching your calorie intake, then Americano is the better choice due to its low-calorie count. However, if you are looking for a more indulgent coffee drink, then latte may be the way to go.
Conclusion
In summary, Americano and latte are both popular coffee drinks with different tastes and composition. Americano is a simple and strong coffee drink made from espresso and hot water, while latte is a creamy and sweet coffee drink made from espresso, steamed milk, and foam. Choosing between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and dietary needs. So next time you head to your favorite coffee shop, give both a try and decide which one is your favorite!
