What is a Ristretto?
Everything You Need to Know About making a Ristretto
Humans of coffee are constantly looking for ways to improve their caffeine experience. For many, the quest is to find the perfect balance of taste, aroma, and strength to start the day right. This is where ristretto comes in – one of the simplest yet most underrated coffee drinks. In this article, we explore the intricacies of the ristretto, from its definition to how it is prepared, and finally why it is worth trying.
What is ristretto?
In Italian, the word means “restricted” or “limited”. A ristretto shot is a concentrated coffee beverage made by forcing steam through a shot of ground coffee in a commercial-grade espresso machine. The difference between a ristretto and a regular espresso is in the volume of liquid extracted. A typical espresso shot comes out to around 1 ounce of liquid, while a ristretto shot is only 0.5 to 0.75 ounces. That translates to a slower, shorter pour, and a tighter pack of coffee in the portafilter.
The next question we tackle is why a ristretto is worth trying. Here are a few reasons that may convince you:
Stronger flavor – As the coffee is more concentrated, a ristretto has a richer taste profile than a regular espresso shot. It has a stronger, more robust flavor that is less bitter than an espresso.
Lower acidity – A ristretto has less acidity than a regular espresso due to the shorter extraction time. This is great for coffee lovers who find espresso too acidic.
Customizable – Ristretto shots are versatile and can be used to customize your coffee order. They can be added to a latte or cappuccino for extra espresso flavor without adding excessive liquid.
Now that we have a better idea of what ristretto is and why it is worth trying, let’s talk about how it is made. A ristretto is made using the same process as a regular espresso, but with half the water. The portafilter is filled with freshly ground coffee that is tamped down firmly. Steam pressure is then used to extract 0.5 to 0.75 ounces of concentrated coffee in 20-30 seconds. The resulting shot is thick, fragrant, and full of flavor.
It is essential to note that ristretto is not for everyone. It is a coffee drink that is designed to be strong and potent. If you prefer a coffee that is sweet and mild, a ristretto may not hit the spot for you. It is also worth mentioning that not all coffee shops offer ristretto as a menu item. However, if you come across one that does, it is definitely worth giving a try to experience the most robust and aromatic flavor profile possible.
How to make a Ristretto?
Start by grinding fresh coffee beans to a fine consistency. Use 8-9 grams of coffee for a single shot, and 16-18 grams for a double shot.
Preheat your espresso machine and portafilter by running hot water through them.
Once the machine is heated, place the coffee grounds in the portafilter and tamp them down to ensure uniform extraction of the coffee.
Lock the portafilter into the group head and place a cup under it.
Begin the extraction process, but only run the water for about 15-20 seconds. This will result in a concentrated shot of espresso with a small amount of liquid, which is a ristretto.
Once the ristretto is brewed, turn off the pump and discard the used coffee grounds.
If desired, serve the ristretto with a small glass of sparkling water, which is traditional in Italian espresso culture.
Enjoy your delicious and concentrated ristretto shot!
Where to find the best Ristretto?
If you are a coffee lover, you must know about 787 coffee shop. We are growing because coffee lovers love the freshness and how strong our coffee beans are. We have a team of experienced baristas who can make a ristretto for you. Our cozy ambiance and friendly staff will make you feel right at home. 787 Coffee has 25 locations and growing -
Google: 787 Coffee to find the closest coffee shop. We currently have coffee shops in New York, New Jersey, Puerto Rico and we are opening El Paso, TX in June 2023.
Conclusion:
Overall, a ristretto can be a great way to switch up and upgrade your coffee game. A ristretto shot is a simple yet powerful way to experience coffee’s richness, aroma, and flavor. It is perfect for those who enjoy a strong and full-bodied coffee experience without the added bitterness of a regular espresso shot. We hope this article has shed some light on the beauty of ristretto and encourages you to give it a try at your local coffee shop or home espresso machine.