Put Some Pep In Your Step on November 23rd: It’s National Espresso Day!

Did you know that espresso originated in Italy over 100 years ago? Today, espresso is utilized and enjoyed throughout many local cafes, chain coffee houses, and even in your own home! Whether you like it brewed hot or served over ice, on November 23rd grab your favorite coffee mug and let’s toast to National Espresso Day!

National Espresso Day is a time to understand and appreciate the history, science, health benefits and uses of this complex and concentrated coffee concoction.

Here are three frequently asked questions about the meaning, origins, and creation of espresso:

1. What does the word espresso mean?

The word espresso in Italian can be translated to “quick in time” or “pressed out”. This is because espresso is made by forcing a small amount of nearly boiling water under pressure through finely-ground coffee beans. Espresso is a commonly used base ingredient for many coffee beverages like cappuccinos, cafe lattes, and macchiatos. However, recipes and other baked goods can call for brewed espresso or even espresso powder!

2. Where did espresso come from?

Espresso made its famous debut in Italy in the early 20th century. Although coffee was already being enjoyed by many Italians for centuries, people were looking for a quicker and more efficient way of making their morning cup of coffee.

3. What makes espresso so special?

Espresso’s unique preparation makes it unlike any other coffee beverage. The espresso brewing method utilizes steam pressure, as well as pressurized hot water to move through finely-ground coffee to create a concentrated coffee topped with a delicate foam.

This special brewing process gives espresso its unique structure, or “anatomy”. Starting with the top layer, also known as the crema, is a thin foam, golden-brown layer, which gives off a very sweet flavor. This is because this layer contains the concentrated sugar and oils of the espresso. The body, or the middle layer, is likely a caramel-brown color and provides the strong, robust coffee flavor. The bottom of the espresso, also known as the heart, is likely a deep brown tone and provides the tangy bitterness of the espresso. The combination of these flavors and tones provides a perfectly balanced coffee beverage!

4 Ways Espresso Can Benefit Your Health

Not only has espresso gained much popularity for its taste and versatility, but also for its health benefits! When consumed at the right amount, this concentrated form of coffee can influence the body in more ways than just one.

Here are 4 ways espresso can benefit your health:

1. Helps with boosting memory. Espresso contains a chemical compound known as caffeine. Caffeine is a cognitive enhancer, which helps with increasing long-term memory and the overall function of your brain. After consuming the right amount of espresso, you’re likely to pay more attention while completing tasks and have better overall memory. Next time you’re in need of a little “brain boost”, try brewing up some espresso!

2. Supports healthy digestion. Espresso has anti-inflammatory and colony-stimulating properties that can help stimulate the digestive process. Once espresso is ingested, the digestive tract begins contracting, also known as peristalsis. This motion helps move particles along the gut with ease and decreases any feelings of bloating or discomfort.

3. Reduces risk of certain disease. Believe it or not, espresso contains antioxidants that can help boost Your immune system! Studies have shown that consuming espresso shots can reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and even Type 2 diabetes. In order to reap these benefits, try enjoying your espresso without loading it up with cream and sugar!

IMPORTANT NOTE: Caffeine can cause headaches, migraines, and high blood pressure in some individuals. If you have high blood pressure and/or other medical conditions, please check with your physician before ingesting caffeine and espresso.

4. Aid in anti-aging. Several studies have shown that the chemical compound caffeine, as well as the various antioxidants found in espresso can prevent early onset of ageing. With these two compounds working together, this in turn slows down the rate of ageing and other age-related illnesses.

4 Ways to use Brewed Espresso & Espresso Powder

Now that you’ve learned a little about this bold brew, let’s talk about how you can use it! Besides the basic cappuccino, latte, or macchiato, espresso can be used in a variety of recipes. Unlike traditional coffee, espresso can easily blend well with other ingredients without losing its vibrant, intense flavor.

Here are 4 ways to use brewed espresso & espresso powder in your recipes:

Add it to your chocolatey baked goods. To step up your brownie, chocolate cake, or chocolate chip cookie recipes, add in a teaspoon of espresso powder, or single espresso shot into the batter. The espresso flavor will provide more richness and boldness to these chocolatey desserts. Everyone will be asking for the secret ingredient!

Amp up any frosting or chocolate sauce. Like those chocolatey baked goods, espresso can elevate any frosting or chocolate sauce. Try blending brewed espresso cream cheese, sugar, and flour to create a unique espresso cheesecake. Or try sprinkling in a teaspoon of espresso powder to chocolate fudge, chocolate ganache, or chocolate frosting for a mocha-inspired topping.

Stir it into chili. This may seem crazy but, espresso powder can even be added to savory dishes. Adding espresso powder into dishes like chili, or stew can amplify the richness and deepen the flavors! Try stirring in a tablespoon or two into a simmering pot of chili.

Use as a dry rub for meats. Step out of your usual spice routine and add in some espresso powder for a robust dry rub. Try combining espresso powder with other spices like chili powder, cayenne, chipotle powder, garlic powder, or smoked paprika.

However you choose to celebrate National Espresso Day, let’s take time to appreciate the history, origin, health benefits and versatility of this vibrant, powerful coffee concoction. Whether you enjoy your espresso in a mug or mixed up in a recipe, mark your calendars for November 23^rd, and cheers to National Espresso Day. Now, get to brewing!

Your Turn to Take Action: How will you use espresso during National Espresso Day? Let me know in the comments below.