A large chunk of the population is dependent on the mighty bean juice elixir that is coffee. Since there are so many blends available, many ask the question: “Can I use espresso to make regular coffee?” Before we get into that, it is important to first understand what exactly we mean when we say regular coffee? Also, what is an espresso?
Although there are now countless coffee concoctions to choose from, any coffee purist will agree that a well-made basic cup is all that really matters. Baristas know for a fact that a properly made cup of coffee or espresso shot extraction can make or break a drink.
Regular Coffee vs Espresso
There is no specific bean to use for a regular coffee. Drinkers can choose among several types: Robusta, Arabica, Liberica, and Excelsa. Each one has its own distinct flavor, with some being richer than others. Deciding on what type to use boils down to personal preference. As a general rule, many commercial beans are from Robusta or Arabica. Grind size, on the other hand, dictates the type of machine to be used for the best brewing results. Most machines use a fine grind.
When it comes to regular coffee, there is a great divide among caffeine enthusiasts. Some believe that regular coffee is not your standard Americano. And that it does, in fact, come with cream and sugar. While there are others who insist that a regular coffee simply means a black coffee. Either way, many will agree that a regular cup of joe is about as basic as coffee will get. If that is the case, then what differentiates regular coffee from an espresso?
The biggest difference between coffee and espresso boils down to the preparation method. Beginning with the beans, the ones used for espressos are typically roasted longer. The grounds are also of a finer texture and will resemble gravel or sand. In order to extract espresso, water with a temperature close to the boiling point is required. This, along with finely ground beans, will produce an extraction that is thick and bold. Espressos make the perfect base for a lot of frappes and coffee blends. Since they are stronger, they are best consumed in smaller serving sizes or in shots.
You might still be wondering: can I use espresso to make regular coffee? The simple answer is YES! As long as the grind size matches the machine, then it shouldn’t be a problem. If the grounds are too fine for the standard machine, the easiest solution is to strain the brew. One simple hack is to use two filters in the pot to strain any residue.
Our Top 4 Favorites
The following descriptions are of coffees that answer the question ‘Can I use espresso to make regular coffee?’ all by themselves. We’ve gathered a few of our favorite espresso bean brands. Easily available online, these beans are dark roasted whole beans. For best results, it is advised to grind up the beans before every brew.
Dr. Mojo Espresso Roast
A perfect combination of coffee and cocoa in a velvety creamy body, Dr. Mojo offers quite the interesting blends. Best for those who are fans of a toffee undertone, this brand only roasts small batches. Freshly roasted each time from their Chicago headquarters, Mr. Mojo boasts of espresso beans that are guaranteed fresh.
Made expressly with top-shelf Arabica beans for optimal flavor and aroma, each packet embodies the Kiwi culture of New Zealand coffee. For coffee fans, this simply means freshly roasted strong coffee day in and day out. This newbie player in the coffee industry offers a risk-free trial. That’s right, if you decide that their blends aren’t for you, they offer refunds!
Nicoletti Coffee
Like many of the best espresso beans in the market, Nicoletti is only roasted in small quantities. This is done to ensure that consumers only get the freshest beans every single time. Why does this matter? Any aficionado will attest to the rich brew flavors that are a result of a premium fresh roast. In keeping with this, many roasters sell espresso beans whole. Grind per use and experience a delicious combination of Arabica and Robusta.
Blended from a mix of coffee grown from Costa Rica, India, Guatemala, and Brazil. Nicoletti offers espresso beans to suit drinkers who prefer a medium roast. Brew your coffee with either a home or commercial machine or a Moka pot. Thanks to the brand’s commitment to offering fresh roasts, every cup is smooth with no bitter notes.
Kicking Horse
This dark roast bag of whole beans can be purchased in 10-ounce or 35-ounce packs. Roasted in the Rocky Mountains of Canada, Kicking Horse beans are grown in Indonesia. Perfect for coffee drinkers who enjoy a heavy-bodied espresso with some hints of black licorice, its earthy depths are ideal for those who aren’t sweet tobacco fans.
When it comes to brewing, drinkers have the option of using a regular drip machine, pour-over, French Press, and cold brew. Last but not least, Kicking Horse is 100% organic, kosher, and fair-trade Arabica coffee.
Starbucks Espresso Blend
It is impossible for any coffee drinker not to know about Starbucks. This well-known company offers drinks and pastries, as well as a selection of quality beans. Compared to competitors, the brand is able to source beans from around the globe. Coffee fans who are looking to expand their caffeine collection will be pleased to find the extensive offerings available. Those who are into an intense caramel flavor will surely enjoy the Starbucks Espresso Roast.
Although categorized as a dark roast, the beans have a bold and robust taste that is not as bitter as other options. Enjoy that coffee-shop flavor and feel without having to leave the comfort of your own home. It also pairs well with steamed milk to bring out that sweet caramelly flavor profile. Learn more about home espressos.
Conclusion
We know that some people are just concerned with the caffeine provided by coffee. In these cases, just about any type of coffee will suffice. Yet some have specifications when it comes to coffee and I think that’s great. So, if you’ve ever found yourself wondering “can I use espresso to make regular coffee” then we hope the data we provided has resolved that concern.