What is an Americano?

An Americano coffee is a shot of Espresso coffee infused with hot water. The ratio of water to Espresso is 1:1 (equal amounts).  An Americano coffee is as intensive as drip coffee, but has a different flavor.

Another coffee similar to the Americano is the ‘Long Black’ prepared by adding Espresso into hot water (instead of adding hot water into Espresso), which infracts (breaks up) the crema.

How to make an Americano coffee:

• Make a shot of espresso and pour it into 180 ml/6 oz. cup.
• Add boiling water into the cup of Espresso until the coffee reaches  the top of the cup.

To achieve a Double Americano, use a double-shot of Espresso. You can also prepare the Americano by adding as much water as you like, which will create different strengths and, in turn, tastes (less water = more intensive; and visa versa).

HistoryThe first Americano coffee is thought to have come from the battlefield of World War II. American GIs in Europe tried to make a coffee similar to the one they were accustomed to by diluting it with hot water. Later on the coffee became popular in the US.

http://espressocoffees.co.uk/coffee/americano-coffee/