But first, coffee. It’s a morning mantra for a billion people who start their day with coffee. But not all coffee is the same and the espresso vs. coffee debate is a hotly contested issue (pun intended!).
This article will answer the question once and for all, what is the difference between espresso and coffee? Let’s get brewing!
What Is Espresso?
Espresso comes from ground coffee beans just like regular coffee but the extraction process for espresso is unique. To make espresso hot water is quickly forced through the ground coffee using high pressure.
It takes about 20 seconds to create a perfect shot of espresso. Espresso and coffee use the same ingredient – ground coffee beans, but the extraction process creates a different flavor and scent.
Also, to make espresso you need a finely ground bean versus coffee where you can use a coarse or fine-ground product. Espresso is served as a “shot” which is about 1 to 1.5 ounces whereas coffee is served as 8oz, 12oz, or more.
Espresso vs. Coffee
To recap, espresso and coffee use the same ingredient prepared in a different way. Espresso is richer and more flavorful than coffee because there is less water.
The other major difference is caffeine. How much caffeine is in espresso? A shot of espresso has about 60mg of caffeine. How much caffeine is in coffee? A shot of coffee has about 12mg.
To make espresso you need an espresso machine which can be an expensive piece of kitchen equipment compared to a standard coffee maker. You can expect to pay at least $100 for an espresso machine whereas a standard coffee maker may cost about $30.
Traditionally, when you order coffee you will see that there are types of coffee roasts. The roast describes how long the beans were roasted before they were ground. There are also benefits to unroasted coffee beans – check out ictcoffee.com to learn more. Espresso and coffee can be made from any type of coffee bean.
Ordering Coffee or Espresso
There are dozens of different ways to order coffee or espresso. The “right” variety is the one you like the best! Some people feel that milk or sugar enhances the flavor of their coffee but others prefer espresso on its own.
Cappuccinos and lattes are espressos with different types of milk added in different proportions.
Sip and Savor
The next time you hear someone ask, what’s the difference between espresso vs. coffee you can confidently tell them that both beverages are made with ground coffee but prepared in a different way. Espresso uses hot water and high pressure while coffee uses a more traditional drip method.
And the next time you’re looking for a quick hit of caffeine you’ll know that espresso packs a bigger caffeine punch! Remember that the best type of coffee is the one you like the most!
For more articles like this one check out the food or travel section of our website!
