The Americano has a storied history, supposedly originating during WWII when American soldiers in Italy would dilute Italian espresso with hot water to make it more like the drip coffee they were used to back home. It offers a similar strength to brewed coffee but with the distinct flavor profile and crema of a well-pulled espresso shot. It's a great way to appreciate the nuances of an espresso bean in a larger, longer-lasting drink.
(not boiling, around 85°C / 185°F)
Begin by heating your water. It should be hot, but not boiling, to avoid scalding the espresso.
Brew a double shot of espresso directly into your serving mug.
Gently pour the hot water over the espresso.
Serve immediately. There is no need to stir.
For a slightly different texture and to preserve more of the crema, try making a Long Black: add the hot water to the cup first, then brew the espresso on top of it.
The ratio of water to espresso is entirely up to personal preference. Start with a 2:1 ratio (water to espresso) and adjust from there.
Using high-quality, filtered water will significantly improve the taste of your Americano.
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