Lungo, an Italian word meaning "long," is a type of espresso coffee drink that is made by extracting the coffee shot for a longer period of time, resulting in a larger volume of coffee. Lungo coffee is prepared using an espresso machine, just like a traditional espresso.
However, the key difference lies in the extraction time and the amount of water used. While a typical espresso shot uses about 30 milliliters of water and takes around 25-30 seconds to extract, a lungo uses more water, typically around 60-90 milliliters, and takes a longer time, usually about 45-60 seconds.
This extended extraction process allows more water to pass through the coffee grounds, creating a larger and more diluted beverage compared to a standard espresso. The resulting coffee has a different flavor profile compared to a regular espresso.
The increased volume of water also means that the coffee is less concentrated than a traditional espresso, but it still retains a strong and robust flavor. Lungo coffee is typically served in a larger cup than an espresso, often in a small mug or a larger espresso cup.