What’s the difference between Americano and latte??
Have you ever walked into a coffee shop and wondered what the difference is between an Americano and a latte? Both are coffee-based drinks that have different textures and flavors. In this article, we’re going to take a closer look at these two popular coffee drinks and explore their differences.
What’s an Americano?
An Americano is a simple black coffee that is made by adding hot water to a shot of espresso. The name “Americano” is believed to have originated during World War II when American soldiers in Italy would request this drink because the espresso that they were used to drinking was too strong for their taste buds.
The resulting drink is a light-bodied, smooth coffee that has a slightly more bitter taste than regular coffee. It’s also a milder version of espresso, making it a perfect choice for those who don’t enjoy the strong flavor of espresso.
What’s a latte?
A latte, on the other hand, is a milk-based coffee that is made by adding steamed milk to a shot of espresso. The latte is topped off with a layer of frothed milk, creating a creamy texture on the surface of the drink.
The ratio of milk to espresso in a latte is about 3:1, which gives the drink a sweeter taste compared to an Americano. Latte art is often used to create attractive designs on the surface of a latte and makes for perfect Instagram fodder.
What’s the difference between Americano and latte?
The main difference between an Americano and a latte is the texture and flavor. Americanos are typically light-bodied and slightly bitter, while lattes are creamy and sweet.
Another difference is the ratio of coffee to milk. As mentioned, Americanos are made by diluting espresso with hot water, while lattes are made by adding steamed milk to espresso. The addition of milk in lattes also helps to reduce the bitterness of the coffee.
If you’re watching your calorie intake, you might want to opt for a black Americano. While a 16oz latte can have as many as 200 calories, a 16oz Americano only has around 15 calories.
Why choose an Americano?
There are several reasons why you might choose an Americano over a latte. The first reason is the taste. If you prefer a light-bodied coffee that has a slightly bitter taste, then an Americano might be a better choice for you.
Another reason to choose an Americano is if you’re watching your calorie intake, as mentioned above. It’s also a great option for those who are lactose intolerant or have other dietary restrictions that prevent them from consuming dairy products.
Why choose a latte?
On the other hand, a latte is a good choice for those who prefer a sweeter, creamier coffee. It’s also a great option if you’re a fan of milk-based drinks and enjoy the latte art that often accompanies this drink.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also opt for flavored lattes that come in a variety of flavors such as vanilla, caramel, and hazelnut.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the difference between an Americano and a latte boils down to texture and flavor. Americanos are light-bodied and slightly bitter, while lattes are creamy and sweet.
Ultimately, the choice between the two drinks will come down to your personal preference. Whether you’re a fan of black coffee or prefer a milk-based drink, there’s a coffee drink out there for everyone.