Espresso Cups
Connoisseurs of espresso insist on the finest coffee beans, and a golden-rich crema however they are just as insistent on the cup it is served in. Espresso served in a typical coffee mug amounts to little more than overly strong, bitter coffee. Espresso cups are created specifically for espresso. They may be petite in size but they are immense in the presentation of a proper espresso.
Espresso is a small, usually 1 to 2 oz., shot of strong, bitter coffee. But, it is so much more than that. The name “espresso” comes from the Italian meaning “pressed out”. Using a steam and water in a special machine, a finely ground dark coffee is pressed out. The resulting drink is an extremely concentrated amount of coffee with a thin layer of froth, called the crema, on the top. Typically, it is consumed black, as it is served, but it can be sweetened if desired.
The Cup
Traditionally espresso cups are small and dainty, usually 2-3 oz. in size. The cup is just a little bigger than the serving size of the espresso. This allows room for toppings, should they be desired. Additionally, the aroma of the espresso is able to be savored, much like with wine. In Italy is not unusual to see people breathing in the aroma as they hold the espresso cup and saucer.
There are many different types of espresso cups available. This doesn’t necessarily mean that you should use them. Today’s fast paced world has pushed out very sturdy yet disposable products and espresso cups didn’t get left out. They are available in sturdy plastic and glass; however they are traditionally porcelain.
True Italian espresso cups are made of thick walled porcelain and hand painted with various designs. These cups are sometimes referred to as a demitasse, French for “half a cup”. Oftentimes the espresso is allowed to drip directly into the demitasse, this allows the crema to form a beautiful, golden top in the cup without being disturbed when poured.
Today, you can purchase espresso cups that are double wall insulated to keep the espresso hot longer and that have matching saucers. Regardless of old world type made of porcelain or today’s insulated espresso cups, true espresso connoisseurs are as interested in the quality and presentation as they are the espresso.
Plain or Fancy
Espresso cups can be found in plain white with matching saucers or as hand painted works of beauty. The digital age has made it possible to add even more flare and design to the espresso cup. The one thing that you should never find is a paper espresso cup. If you do, you are not going to enjoy a true espresso as it is meant to be enjoyed. Espresso should not come in a to-go cup with a lid.
Enjoying an espresso is almost a ritualistic experience, from the brewing and serving to the inhalation of the aroma and the quick gulps of the small serving. True espresso enthusiasts will tap their espresso cup against the saucer when they have finished.
Golden Cup (Luca Massolin) – Live @ Fanfulla 101, Rome. December 18, 2009. Part 2.
|
|
Cuisinart GTF Gold Tone Filter $0.01 Permanent gold-tone filter for use in the DCC-100, DCC-900, DCC-1000, DCC-1200, and DGB-300 series coffee makers by Cuisinart. … |
|
|
Cuisinart WMR-CA Round Classic Waffle Maker $29.95 Bakes a Large Round Waffle – Separates into 4 triangular sections : Dual Indicator Lights : 5 Browning settings for custom browning control : Weighted Lid will not rise during baking, both sides cook evenly : Exclusive Regulating Thermostat retains constant temperature for optimal results : Stick Free Plates – Waffles remove easily : Easy to clean : AV Power Cord wraps under unit for… |
|
|
Waring WMK300A Professional Stainless-Steel Belgian Waffle Maker $52.00 As far back as the 1400′s, the waffle has been a dessert or special bread enjoyed by the aristocracy. Early, over-the-flame waffle irons often bore the family’s crest as a design. The Belgian Waffle was first introduced to the USA at the 1964 New York World’s Fair, about 10 years after frozen waffles were invented. Belgian waffles were a big hit and became a preferred breakfast and brunch treat. S… |
|
|
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire [Original Motion Picture Soundtrack] $5.27 Big news on the Harry Potter musical front: After scoring the first three installments in the series, John Williams has been replaced by Patrick Doyle. Still, Williams never feels far away. His main theme pops up here and there, and a track like “Voldemort,” which eloquently illustrates the soul of a blacker-than-black wizard with thunderous cymbal crashes, shrieking horns, tumultuous strings, and… |
|
|
Rare & Unreleased Recordings From the Golden Reign $5.99 Nearly every music legend leaves behind a slew of unreleased songs, alternate takes of released tunes, and live and demo material. To collectors, such detritus from the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, and others is manna from heaven. Aretha Franklin’s first six years with Atlantic Records generated its own sheaf of unreleased songs and rarities, lovingly compiled into a chronological two-C… |
|
|
Dead Breed $15.98 … |
|
|
InSinkErator SST-FLTR 2/3-Gallon Stainless Tank and Filtration System $175.00 The InSinkErator Stainless Steel Tank and Filtration System (SST-FLTR) saves time in the kitchen, delivering 200-degree-Fahrenheit near-boiling water from its compact 2/3-gallon tank. The tank delivers unmatched performance with its many features and benefits. The durable stainless steel construction means longer life, the adjustable thermostat gives you a water temperature that can be adjusted to… |
|
|
InSinkErator HOT-1 Low-Profile Instant Hot Water Dispenser $134.59 The InSinkErator low-profile instant hot water dispenser delivers easy-to-adjust temperatures, from a durable fixture that’s easy to install. Powered by rugged induction motors and mounted to your sink with tough, stainless steel assemblies, InSinkErator devices are designed for years of trouble-free service. This device can dispense 40 cups per hour at 190 degrees, while including a manually rese… |
|
|
Fluidmaster 555c Flusher Fixer Kit $1.25 Fluidmaster, Flusher Fixer Kit, Consists Of Bulls Eye Flapper #500 With Timing Cup, Plastic Seat & Sealant Ring…. |
|
|
Madison $2.99 … |
|
|
The Golden Cup $7.91 With her latest national bestseller, Belva Plain returns to the beloved world and characters of Evergreen. And to tie in with this super release, Dell is reissuing her earlier titles in striking new cover formats. |