Coffee or Espresso?

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Coffee refers to a drink prepares by grinding the coffee beans to a powder and mixing with hot but not boiling water till all the flavors of the coffee bean have been extracted. However espresso is prepared by forcing a jet of hot water under pressure through coffee powder. While coffee is lighter in that has the consistency of water with a slight oiliness, espresso is much more thicker and is a concentrated version of coffee. The coffee bean spread from the Middle East to Italy and then to the rest of Europe and subsequently the world. The main reason for the popularity of coffee lies in its stimulating effect mainly due to the compound caffeine. A favorite of workaholics and now health junkies as well. Coffee has been shown to have a number of beneficial effects, especially on the Central Nervous System. Studies indicate that coffee consumption lowers significan’tly the risk of developing dementia, Parkinson’s Disease etc. This beneficial effect of coffee has been evident since the discovery of coffee since ancient sources name coffee as a remedy to ailments such as an upset stomach. While coffee has been brewing since its discovery, the espresso is a recent invention of the Italians. The espresso originated in 1821 and since then it has been the foundation for numerous variations. Being really concentrated in the coffee flavors, espresso is often used as the base for the preparation of mochas, lattes and cappuccinos. Topped with vanilla, cream or chocolate, espressos are a long time favorite. However, while a coffee can be prepared at home with a humble pot, to make an espresso, an espresso machine is needed. And due this reason, when the craving for an espresso strikes most people head to the coffee shop round the corner. Maybe that is why I prefer coffee. There is the joy of making it myself coupled with the delicious taste of coffee. But there are also health reasons why you should prefer coffee to espresso. While caffeine is good, coffee also contains lipoproteins. It is these fats and oils which appear on the top layer of coffee upon brewing. Filter coffee to remove these fats. But in an espresso most of these harmful fats are still present and also in higher amounts.

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