If we think of icons of Italian gastronomy, coffee and gelato are two must-haves. What if we told you that there is a recipe that brings these two together? Italian like few others, affogato is also a surprising dessert because it evolves and changes taste and temperature in front of the diner.
If it is summer, we recommend it. If it is winter, we recommend it. Because? Because the coffee must be very hot and the ice cream… Well, ice cream. But as we eat them, this combination becomes a sweet and warm comforting dessert like few others.
About the affogato
Affogato is an Italian dessert that combines two irresistible elements: espresso and ice cream. This delicious dessert is made by pouring hot espresso over a scoop of ice cream, resulting in a magical combination of flavors and textures.
- The intensity of the coffee mixes with the softness and sweetness of the ice creamcreating a contrast that satisfies the senses and offers a unique culinary experience.
- Vanilla ice cream is the most common choicebut there are variants that include other flavors and ingredients to give a personalized twist to affogato.
The basis of a good affogato is a quality espresso. The intensity and richness of the coffee mixes with the softness and sweetness of the ice cream, creating a harmonious combination of flavors and textures.
What does the word affogato mean?
The word “affogato” is of Italian origin and its meaning is quite literal and visual. In Italian, it translates as “drowned,” and this definition accurately reflects the way this delicious dessert is prepared. The term refers to the action of pouring or “drowning” a scoop of ice cream in a cup or glass of hot espresso. This act of pouring the coffee over the ice cream creates a very graphic image, as the ice cream appears to be submerged or “drowned” in the coffee.
Affogato coffee is a culinary creation that evokes both the visual aspect and the sensory experience of the dessert. The contrast in temperatures and textures between hot coffee and cold ice cream is essential for the enjoyment of this delight, and the word “drowned” captures that feeling perfectly.
How to make and drink affogato
Affogato is drunk celebrating the perfect harmony between coffee and ice cream. First, a scoop of ice cream is served in a heat-resistant glass or mug. The ice cream is usually vanilla due to its neutral flavor that pairs well with coffee, but other flavors can also be chosen. The choice of ice cream is a personal and flexible aspect.
Then, an espresso is prepared which must be well prepared and hot. Once ready, the hot espresso is poured directly over the ice cream in the glass. This action “drowns” the ice cream in the coffee, creating an amalgamation of flavors and temperatures. The heat of the espresso begins to gently melt the ice cream, and the blend of flavors is sublime.
The affogato is tasted immediately. Using a spoon, you mix the coffee and ice cream as you consume it to ensure you get a balanced flavor in every bite. It is enjoyed as a dessert or as a drink and is a perfect option for those who love these two products.
The taste of affogato, an intense Italian experience
The flavor is a unique and delicious experience that combines the intensity of espresso with the softness and sweetness of ice cream. The main characteristic of its flavor is the power and robust aroma of the coffee. Espresso is generally prepared with high-quality coffee beans, giving it a strong, deep flavor with nuances of roasted notes and mild bitterness. The ice cream provides a creamy sweetness that contrasts wonderfully with the coffee.
This recipe is characterized by a carefully achieved balance between coffee and ice cream, both in flavors and temperatures. The combination of these two elements creates a unique sensory experience that is appreciated by coffee and ice cream lovers around the world.
4 tips to remove a superior drowning
- Variants with liquors: Some versions include liqueurs such as amaretto, Kahlúa or Baileys, which add a touch of additional flavor to the dessert. These variations are known as “affogato corretto” and are ideal for liquor lovers.
- Creative presentation: This dessert can be presented in a variety of creative ways. Some places serve it in coffee mugs, martini glasses, or even special ice cream bowls, adding an appealing visual touch to the dessert.
- High quality coffee: The quality of the espresso is essential for a good affogato. Coffee lovers often prefer freshly ground coffee beans and a well-brewed espresso to bring out its distinctive flavor.
- Decor: You can decorate it with grated chocolate, chopped nuts, chantilly cream, cocoa powder, cinnamon, nutella, cookies, biscotti or even a small amount of liqueur, to give an additional visual and flavor touch to this delicious dessert.
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Affogato recipe
Yield: 1 drowned
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 scoop of vanilla ice cream (or preferred flavor)
- 1 shot of espresso (30 ml)
How to prepare an affogato in 3 simple steps
- Prepare a shot of piping hot espresso using an espresso machine or espresso maker.
- Place a scoop of ice cream in a heat-resistant mug or glass.
- Immediately pour the hot espresso over the ice cream scoop. The heat from the coffee will begin to gently melt the ice cream.
Source: www.paulinacocina.net
