What’s the difference between espresso and just plain coffee? According to professional baristas, it doesn’t really matter what kind of bean you use, or how it’s roasted — it’s all in the way the beans are brewed. Forcing pressurized water through finely-ground coffee beans produces a concentrated brew with its signature delicate foam. This foam, or crema, to use its proper name, contains concentrated sugars and oils from the beans, adding a light sweetness that helps balance out the bitterness. Grab an espresso on November 23 to taste the difference for yourself!

WHY WE LOVE NATIONAL ESPRESSO DAY

  1. It’s an all-day wake-up call

    Whether you like your espresso straight up or blended into a latté or cappuccino, just a single shot can perk up even the slowest morning mover. Adding espresso to a chocolate smoothie creates a luscious mocha pick-me-up in the afternoon, and espresso also makes the perfect after-dinner drink, especially if you’re having tiramisu for dessert.

  2. It gives us that Euro-chic air

    One sip of steaming hot espresso, and we’re transported to an Italian piazzo, surrounded by ancient cobblestones, weathered statues, cypress trees, and hundreds of years of history. (Talk about traveling on a budget!) And those tiny cups that espresso is traditionally served in? They’re simply molto alla moda (very trendy).

  3. It’s an excuse to try something new (do we need an excuse?)

    Are you a strict black coffee person? Try a shot of espresso instead. If you like your morning brew a little lighter, order a latté (you can choose how many shots you want added to that steamy, foamy milk). Or how about espresso added to hot cocoa for a sophisticated mocha drink?

Credit: Nationsaltoday.com