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Introduction: San Marino and its cuisine

San Marino, the small Republic located within the borders of Italy, is a unique destination for tourists looking to explore the rich history and culture of the region. One of the most fascinating aspects of San Marino is its cuisine, which is heavily influenced by the Italian and regional traditions.

San Marino cuisine is a reflection of its location, situated in the middle of the Emilia-Romagna, Marche, and Tuscany regions of Italy. While drawing inspiration from the neighboring cuisines, San Marino has also developed a distinct identity of its own, which has become a significant draw for food enthusiasts.

Italian influence on San Marino cuisine

Italian cuisine has had a profound impact on San Marino’s culinary traditions. San Marino shares many of the same ingredients and cooking techniques with Italy, but it has also incorporated its own distinct flavors, such as the use of herbs and spices, to create a unique blend of flavors.

Some of the most popular Italian dishes that have become staples in San Marino include pasta dishes such as tagliatelle, lasagna, and spaghetti alla carbonara, as well as risotto and pizza. The use of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients like tomatoes, basil, olive oil, and cheese is also common in San Marino’s cuisine.

Regional influences on San Marino cuisine

San Marino’s location in the heart of Italy’s Emilia-Romagna, Marche, and Tuscany regions has also had a significant influence on its cuisine. The region’s agricultural traditions have been incorporated into San Marino’s dishes, which include a wide variety of meats, cheeses, and vegetables.

For instance, the Emilia-Romagna region is known for its cured meats like prosciutto and salami, which are often used in San Marino’s pasta dishes and antipasti. The Marche region, on the other hand, is known for its seafood, which is used to prepare traditional dishes like brodetto and moscioli. The Tuscany region is famous for its Chianti wine, which is a staple in many of San Marino’s recipes.

Traditional dishes of San Marino

San Marino has several traditional dishes that are unique to the region. One of the most popular dishes is Piadina, which is a type of flatbread made with flour, water, and lard. It is typically served with prosciutto, cheese, and other meats, making it a perfect snack or meal.

Another traditional dish is Torta Tre Monti, a dessert consisting of three layers of hazelnut cream and wafers. It is often served during special occasions, such as weddings and Christmas.

Ingredients used in San Marino cuisine

San Marino’s cuisine uses many of the same ingredients as Italian cuisine, but it also has some unique ingredients that are specific to the region. Some of the most commonly used ingredients include San Marzano tomatoes, a variety of cheese, including parmigiano-reggiano and pecorino romano, and herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage.

San Marino is also known for its production of olive oil, which is used in many of the region’s dishes. The olive oil is made from the Don Bosco and Roggiano varieties of olives, which are grown locally.

Conclusion: A unique blend of flavors

San Marino’s cuisine is a unique blend of Italian and regional traditions, resulting in a distinct culinary identity. Its location in the heart of Italy has allowed it to draw inspiration from neighboring regions, while still maintaining its distinct flavors.

From its traditional dishes like Piadina and Torta Tre Monti to the use of locally-sourced ingredients like San Marzano tomatoes and Don Bosco olives, San Marino’s cuisine is a reflection of its rich history and culture. For food enthusiasts looking to explore the flavors of Italy and beyond, San Marino is a must-visit destination.

Introduction: Slovenian cuisine and its influences

Slovenian cuisine is a reflection of its neighboring countries, including Italy and Austria. Due to its location, Slovenian cuisine is heavily influenced by both the Mediterranean and Central European culinary traditions. Slovenian cuisine is characterized by its hearty and filling dishes that are made with simple, locally sourced ingredients.

The country’s proximity to Italy and Austria has also contributed to the fusion of flavors and dishes in Slovenian cuisine. The result is a unique blend of culinary traditions that have been passed down from one generation to another, which makes Slovenian dishes a must-try for food lovers.

Italian-influenced dishes in Slovenian cuisine

Slovenian cuisine has been heavily influenced by Italian cuisine, particularly in the western regions of the country. Some of the most popular Italian-influenced dishes in Slovenia include the famous Istrian stew, which is made with beef, vegetables, and wine, and the gnocchi, which are small dumplings made from potatoes and served with various sauces.

Another Italian-inspired dish that is popular in Slovenia is the seafood risotto, which is typically made with locally sourced seafood and topped with Parmesan cheese. This dish is a perfect example of how Slovenian cuisine has been influenced by the flavors and ingredients of Italy.

Traditional Austrian dishes and their Slovenian adaptations

Austria has also had a significant influence on Slovenian cuisine, particularly in the northern regions of the country. Some of the most popular Austrian dishes that have been adapted in Slovenia include Wiener Schnitzel, which is made with breaded veal or pork and is often served with a side of potato salad.

Another Austrian-inspired dish that has been adapted in Slovenia is the apple strudel, which is a dessert made with thinly sliced apples and pastry. Slovenian versions of the apple strudel often include additional ingredients such as walnuts and raisins.

Fusion dishes: the blending of Slovenian, Italian, and Austrian cuisine

The blending of Slovenian, Italian, and Austrian cuisine has resulted in some unique and delicious fusion dishes. One of the most popular fusion dishes in Slovenia is Jota, which is a hearty stew made with beans, potatoes, sauerkraut, and smoked meat.

Another fusion dish that is popular in Slovenia is the Carniolan sausage, which is a type of sausage that is made with pork and is heavily spiced. This sausage is often served with sauerkraut and mustard and is a perfect example of how Slovenian cuisine has been influenced by both Italy and Austria.

Regional specialties with Italian or Austrian influences

Some regions in Slovenia have their own unique specialties that have been influenced by Italian or Austrian cuisine. For example, the town of Kobarid in the Julian Alps is famous for its traditional dish called Kobarid štruklji, which is a type of dumpling that is similar to gnocchi and is often served with a meat sauce.

In the region of Prekmurje in northeastern Slovenia, the traditional dish called bujta repa is popular. This dish is made with turnips, potatoes, and meat and is similar to the Austrian dish called turnip stew.

Recommendations for trying Slovenian dishes with Italian or Austrian flair

If you want to try Slovenian dishes with Italian or Austrian influences, here are some recommendations. The Istrian stew, gnocchi, and seafood risotto are some of the most popular Italian-inspired dishes that you can find in Slovenia.

For Austrian-inspired dishes, try the Wiener Schnitzel or the apple strudel. If you want to try a fusion dish, Jota and Carniolan sausage are great options. Finally, don’t forget to try the regional specialties, such as Kobarid štruklji and bujta repa, which are perfect examples of how Slovenian cuisine has been influenced by neighboring countries.

Introduction: Swiss Cuisine

Switzerland, situated in the heart of Europe, has a unique culinary identity that draws influences from its neighboring countries, France, Germany, and Italy. Swiss cuisine is known for its simplicity, quality ingredients, and the use of traditional cooking methods. Swiss dishes are a reflection of the country’s diverse cultural backgrounds, and the culinary traditions that have evolved over centuries.

French Influences on Swiss Cuisine

French cuisine has played a significant role in shaping the flavors and techniques of Swiss cuisine. France’s proximity to Switzerland has allowed for the exchange of culinary ideas and ingredients. Swiss dishes like Quiche Lorraine and Croissants are well-known examples of French influences on Swiss cuisine. The French also introduced the use of butter, cream, and wine in Swiss cooking. The most famous Swiss dish influenced by French cuisine is the Fondue, which is made with melted cheese and wine.

German Influences on Swiss Cuisine

Germany’s influence on Swiss cuisine can be seen in the use of potatoes, sausages, and pickled vegetables. One of the most popular Swiss dishes influenced by German cuisine is Rösti, which is a potato fritter that is similar to a hash brown. Another well-known Swiss dish that has German roots is the Zürcher Geschnetzeltes, a creamy veal dish with mushrooms and onions that is typically served with Rösti.

Italian Influences on Swiss Cuisine

Italy’s influence on Swiss cuisine can be seen in the use of herbs, spices, and pasta. Swiss dishes like Risotto and Polenta are evidence of Italian influence on Swiss cuisine. One of the most iconic Swiss dishes influenced by Italian cuisine is the Capuns, a dish made with chard leaves, filled with a mixture of flour, eggs, cheese, and ham, and then rolled and boiled.

Fusion of Influences in Swiss Cuisine

Swiss cuisine is not just a blend of French, German, and Italian influences, but rather a fusion of these culinary traditions. The Swiss have taken these influences and made them their own, creating a unique culinary identity. Swiss dishes like Zürcher Geschnetzeltes with Rösti and Fondue with bread are examples of the fusion of culinary traditions.

Conclusion: Unique Flavors of Swiss Cuisine

Swiss cuisine is a reflection of the country’s diverse cultural backgrounds and the culinary traditions that have evolved over centuries. The French, German, and Italian influences have shaped Swiss cuisine and contributed to the unique flavors that make Swiss cuisine so delicious. Swiss cuisine is a fusion of these culinary traditions, making it a unique and flavorful experience. From Rösti to Fondue, Swiss cuisine has something for everyone.

Introduction: Uruguayan cuisine and its influences

Uruguayan cuisine is an amalgamation of indigenous and European flavors. The country’s gastronomy has evolved over time, influenced by various European cultures that have made their mark on Uruguayan cuisine. Among these, Spanish and Italian cultures have played a significant role in shaping the country’s culinary heritage. The influence of Spain and Italy in Uruguay can be seen in the wide variety of dishes, spices, meats, and cooking techniques used in Uruguayan cuisine.

Spanish influence in Uruguayan cuisine

Spanish influence on Uruguayan cuisine is evident in the use of spices and ingredients commonly found in Spanish kitchens. Spanish cuisine is characterized by its use of saffron, paprika, garlic, and olive oil, all of which are staples in Uruguayan cooking. Spanish dishes like paella, tortilla, and chorizo have become popular in Uruguayan cuisine. These dishes are typically served as tapas or appetizers in Uruguayan restaurants.

Spanish influence can also be seen in the way Uruguayan meats are prepared and cooked. The Spanish tradition of grilling meats over an open flame has been adapted in Uruguay, where asado, a type of barbecue, is a staple at any Uruguayan gathering.

Italian influence in Uruguayan cuisine

Italy’s influence on Uruguayan cuisine is no less significant than that of Spain. Italian immigrants have brought their culinary traditions to Uruguay, which have been embraced by the locals. Italian dishes like pizza, pasta, and risotto have become popular in Uruguay, with many Uruguayan chefs putting their twist on these dishes.

Italian influence can also be seen in the use of ingredients like tomatoes, basil, and Parmesan cheese. These ingredients are commonly used in Uruguayan cooking, and dishes like milanesa, a breaded and fried meat dish, and gnocchi, a potato dumpling dish, have become staples in Uruguayan restaurants.

Common dishes from Spanish and Italian cuisine found in Uruguay

Some of the most popular dishes in Uruguayan cuisine have Spanish and Italian origins. Asado, a type of barbecue, is a staple in Uruguayan cuisine, and chorizo, a type of Spanish sausage, is often served alongside it. Empanadas, a type of stuffed pastry, is another popular dish in Uruguay and can be found in both Spanish and Italian cuisines.

Italian influence can be seen in dishes like pizza and pasta, which have become ubiquitous in Uruguay. Pizza is often served with a variety of toppings, including ham, cheese, and olives, while pasta dishes like spaghetti and lasagna are typically served with meat sauce or marinara sauce.

The fusion of Spanish and Italian flavors in Uruguayan cuisine

The fusion of Spanish and Italian flavors has given rise to new dishes in Uruguayan cuisine. One such dish is chivito, which is a sandwich made with beef, tomato, lettuce, ham, mozzarella cheese, and mayonnaise. The dish is said to have been inspired by the Italian dish, Milanese, and the Spanish dish, choripán.

Another fusion dish is fainá, which is a type of flatbread made with chickpea flour and is typically served with pizza. The dish is said to have been inspired by the Italian dish, farinata, and has become a popular accompaniment to pizza in Uruguay.

Conclusion: The lasting impact of European flavors on Uruguayan cuisine

The influence of Spanish and Italian cultures on Uruguayan cuisine is undeniable. The use of spices, ingredients, and cooking techniques from Spain and Italy has contributed to the unique flavors of Uruguayan cuisine. The fusion of Spanish and Italian flavors has given rise to new dishes in Uruguayan cuisine, which have become staples in the country’s culinary heritage. The lasting impact of European flavors on Uruguayan cuisine is a testament to the country’s rich cultural diversity and its ability to adapt to the changing culinary landscape.

been at work long? And then stand by the stove for a long time to conjure up a delicious meal on the table? Not with this great soup. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it’s also quick, has very few calories, and costs next to nothing.

Ingredients for 4 persons

For the cheese dumplings

  • 30g Parmesan
  • 100 g potato dumpling dough half and half
  • 2 teaspoons frozen basil
  • Salt

For the soup

  • 1 tbsp oil
  • ½ pack of frozen garlic – duo (iglo)
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 400 g frozen pan-fried vegetables Italian (Iglo)
  • 2 tsp vegetable broth
  • 2 tbsp pine nuts

Preparation

  1. Finely grate the parmesan. Mix with dumpling dough, basil, and ¼ liter of water. Leave to swell for about 10 minutes.
  2. Roll small dumplings out of the dough with moistened hands and leave to steep in slightly boiling salted water for 7-10 minutes.
  3. Heat the oil in a saucepan and sauté the garlic in it. Stir in the tomato paste. Add the frozen pan-fried vegetables, 1 liter of water, and broth, bring to a boil and simmer for 6-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Roast the pine nuts without fat until golden brown. Drain the dumplings and serve them in the soup. Sprinkle with the pine nuts and serve. Good Appetite.

Useful additional knowledge

I have an extra tip for lazybones. If your day has been so tough that even rolling dumplings are too exhausting, I can recommend ready-made gnocchi. These are also a delicious addition to the soup. The pre-cooked ones from the refrigerated section are unbeatably quick to prepare. Simply put in boiling water for 2 minutes, drain and you’re done.

“Melanzane Alla Parmigiana” is a traditional Italian dish that not only delights vegetarians. Even inexperienced cooks can cope well with the preparation. Although the name suggests, the recipe does not come from Parma but from southern Italy.

Ingredients for 4 persons

  • 1 kg of eggplants
  • 800g fresh, ripe tomatoes (or tinned tomatoes)
  • 200g mozzarella (buffalo mozzarella tastes best)
  • 100g grated Parmesan
  • some leaves of fresh basil
  • 1 onion whole
  • salt, pepper, olive oil

Preparation of the eggplant casserole

  1. Wash the aubergines, remove the stems, and cut them into slices about 1 cm thick. The slices are then placed on kitchen paper and salted.
  2. In a pan, heat plenty of olive oil and fry the aubergine slices in portions on both sides until they turn golden. Then you put them in a large sieve to drain them, so they lose their bitter note and the excess oil.
  3. In the meantime, a thick tomato sauce is prepared: the tomatoes are washed, cut into small cubes, and simmered in a saucepan with a little olive oil and a whole peeled onion over low heat for about 20 minutes. To season, add salt and pepper to taste. When the sauce has thickened, remove all of the onion and remove the sauce from the heat.
  4. In a large casserole dish, alternately layer the eggplant slices (do not overlap), grated Parmesan, a few spoonfuls of tomato sauce, and fresh basil (hand-picked into small pieces), and thinly sliced ​​mozzarella. Repeat this step until all ingredients are used up. The last layer should be the tomato sauce with grated parmesan.
  5. The aubergines are finally baked in the oven at 200°C for about 40 minutes until the tomato sauce shows a light crust.
  6. The casserole tastes both hot and cold. Serve with fresh white bread and a glass of good Italian red wine!

Tips and variants for the aubergine casserole

  • In Naples, there are the gratinated aubergines with boiled eggs, peas, and diced ham (just add layers to the casserole dish)
  • You can also use Italian pecorino cheese instead of Parmesan cheese
  • For a lower-calorie version, instead of frying the aubergines, grill them or bake them in the oven before layering them in the casserole dish.
  • For meat lovers, you can prepare a minced meat stew, then the recipe is a bit similar to the Greek moussaka.

Preparation time: 30 minutes prep time and 40-50 minutes baking time

Italian herbs should not be missing in any kitchen: Whether fresh or dried, they give Mediterranean dishes the finishing touch. We’ll show you five strains you should know about.

Herbs and spices should be readily available in every pantry. They give your food that certain something and allow you to experiment with flavors. Italian herbs are also particularly popular in this country. We show you the five most important things you should always have at home.

Basil: The royal herb among the Italian herbs

Basil is probably the first thing that comes to mind when it comes to Italian herbs. And rightly so: the strong, aromatic taste is immediately reminiscent of Italy. There, the green herb refines a variety of traditional dishes, for example classic caprese, fresh basil pesto or pizza margherita. You can use basil for salads and dips or season fish and meat dishes with it. And if you want to try something new: even in lemonades and cocktails, the most well-known of the Italian herbs cuts a fine figure.
By the way: Basil is very healthy because it contains essential oils and vitamins A and C.

Rosemary: For fish, meat and potatoes

Rosemary is one of the most popular Italian herbs. The term originally comes from Latin and means something like “dew of the sea”. The herb owes its name to the place where it thrives – the coasts of the Mediterranean. You can use rosemary both fresh and dried in the kitchen. In Italy, the herb is mainly combined with meat and fish, but vegetarians and vegans can also take advantage of rosemary. For example, try rosemary potatoes or season vegetable dishes with them.

Already knew? Rosemary is said to stimulate circulation and help with flatulence and indigestion.

Oregano: Southern Italy’s favorite

Let’s continue with oregano! The spice is particularly popular in southern Italy and a real all-rounder among Italian herbs. What would a pizza sauce be without oregano? But the Mediterranean plant is also often used in meat, fish and vegetable dishes.

Incidentally, a close relative of oregano in German cuisine is marjoram – which is why it is also known as “wild marjoram”.

Tip: By the way, dried oregano is much spicier than fresh. Therefore, you should always be careful with the dosage.

Thyme: Versatile medicinal and aromatic herb

With its spicy-sweet note, thyme refines soups, sauces, stews and meat dishes. The taste of this herb also goes well with a vegetable pan, for example with aubergine and potatoes. Fish dishes go particularly well with lemon thyme.

Important: For the sake of the animals and the environment, you should largely avoid fish and meat. If it does end up on the plate, make sure it is organic.

Sage: Versatile

Everyone knows the characteristic scent of sage. Like most Italian herbs, it can be used in many ways, for example with grilled food or in soups. You can serve delicious sage butter with homemade gnocchi. The common sage you will find in this country is the real sage.

By the way: sage is said to make high-fat foods more digestible.
Sage is not only popular in the kitchen, but also in the fight against colds and gastrointestinal problems – for example in the form of sage tea.

Creamy coffee just like in Bella Italia: With the right recipe and professional know-how, you can make your own cappuccino at home, the taste of which will immediately take you back to your last holiday in Italy.

Warming rays of sunshine, the hustle and bustle on the piazza and a cappuccino with perfect milk foam topping – the ingredients for a relaxing holiday! At least the luxurious drink can easily be taken home. Because the recipe for classic Italian cappuccino is very simple: it consists of equal parts espresso, milk and milk froth.

Already knew?

Italians only drink cappuccino in the morning. Due to its high milk content, it is considered to be stomach-filling. In Germany, on the other hand, we enjoy it all day long: with a long breakfast or in the afternoon with pastries.

It all comes down to the beans

First things first: The espresso beans should be of the best quality so that the cappuccino really tastes as good as it does on holiday. You are guaranteed to be on the right track with the high-quality coffees from Mamis Caffè. Which variety you choose is up to your personal preferences.

Gran Crema impresses with the fine crema of the Arabica beans from Brazil, which settles perfectly on the milk.
The full-bodied espresso crema has a soft, intense crema, which unfolds its aroma in the interplay of Arabica beans with a strong Robusta note.
The sweet Amabile with its generous, soft body brings together seductive Dolce Vita with aromatic notes from India and South America.
Dolce Vita already carries the pleasure in the name. Sweet and with a certain spice, Arabica and Robusta beans bring the Italian attitude to life into your cup.
The smooth Deca Coffee is suitable for a delicious decaffeinated cappuccino variant.

What else makes a good cappuccino? That’s right: a creamy, dense foam. For this to succeed, you need milk with a high fat content. Whole milk with a fat content of 3.5 percent is ideal. Without fat, the foam will be watery and won’t stay solid.

All good things come in threes: the cappuccino recipe

Everything together? Now it depends on the mixing ratio. A cup of cappuccino consists of:

⅓ espresso
⅓ warm milk
⅓ milk froth.
For this you need:

Espresso (approx. 25 – 30 milliliters)
milk (approx. 100 – 150 milliliters)

Cappuccino preparation: start with the espresso

Professionals brew their espresso in a portafilter machine. Such a high-end coffee machine has its price and requires a relatively large amount of effort to prepare. However, if you regularly enjoy cappuccino at barista level, the investment can be worth it. You like it less complicated? A small espresso pot for the stove, a so-called Bialetti, also does a good job. The espresso is quick and easy with a fully automatic coffee machine, a pad or capsule machine.

Of course, you know best which method best suits your everyday life. At Mamis Caffè you will find your favorite variety for every type of preparation: as a whole bean, ground coffee, pad or capsule.

It’s all in the milk: this is how the perfect milk froth succeeds

In order to produce a stable milk froth, it is important that the milk is not too hot. As the owner of a portafilter machine with a steam nozzle, you are on the safe side. Here you use hot steam to heat milk in a jug and froth it at the same time. It’s even easier with a fully automatic machine. Most models conjure up a decent amount of milk foam at the touch of a button.

Alternatively, simply heat the milk on the stove. A temperature below 65 degrees is ideal, it should never boil.

You can then either froth the warm milk with a special milk frother or use a hand blender or a whisk. What actually works: a sufficiently large, empty mason jar. Pour in the warm milk and shake vigorously: a fine froth forms.

For your cappuccino you need milk froth, milk and espresso in equal parts. Froth until the volume of the milk has roughly doubled.

Expert tip: Professional baristas briefly knock the pot onto the table after heating the milk. In this way, unwanted bubbles escape from the milk and the froth becomes more even.

The final touch: Serve the cappuccino

Once you have prepared your espresso, first pour it into a preheated cup. Now it’s time for the milk, which you pour into the cup with a flourish. First hold back the foam with a spoon. You use it in the last step to crown your drink with it.

Et voilà: the homemade cappuccino is ready and tastes at least as good as in your favorite café in Milan or Rome.

Art in coffee: create latte art like a barista

Professionals refine the cappuccino with artistic motifs in the milk froth, the so-called latte art. The patterns in the crema are created when you pour the milk onto the espresso with a lot of energy and small, targeted movements. This requires finesse and practice. Would you like to surprise your guests with artistic masterpieces on milk froth? Most major cities have barista classes that will teach you the basics in just a few hours.

Well, do you hear it hiss? Ever since it was invented by Bialetti, the Moka Express has been the ultimate symbol of Italian coffee. Almost every household in Bella Italia has such a device. How does it work? And what distinguishes coffee from the Moka from espresso from other machines? Mamis Caffè will give you the answers.

La Moka: How Bialetti created the Italian classic

Anyone who speaks of caffè in Italy means either espresso – or coffee from the so-called moka. The octagonal device for preparing coffee is even more widespread there than the filter coffee machine in Germany.

It was invented by Alfonso Bialetti, who patented his “Moka Express” in 1933. Until now, Italians could only drink their beloved espresso outside, in bars with the appropriate machines. Bialetti then had the idea of ​​not producing espresso under high steam pressure, but of forcing the water through the coffee using little pressure in the pot. That’s why the Italians sometimes simply name their favorite kitchen utensil after its inventor: Bialetti.

Incidentally, according to stories, he was inspired by a method of washing clothes that was common at the time. Because in Italy in the 1920s, dirty clothes were washed in buckets with a pipe in the middle. This tube pumped the soapy water up and distributed it over the laundry.

How does an espresso maker work?

Each classic Moka consists of three parts:

Can top with pouring spout
Boiler that is filled with water
Funnel insert with coffee powder
As soon as the water in the boiler begins to evaporate, overpressure is created. This pushes the hot water up through the ground coffee in the funnel insert. The top part of the jug has a fine sieve on the underside that filters the coffee from the coffee grounds. The filtered coffee rises in the riser pipe and flows into the espresso maker’s pot.

The important role that the Moka plays in Italian households is also shown by the many colors and designs in which the kitchen classic is available. Because the device is also an eye-catcher. The Moka is often in sight on the stove or on the shelf. Hardly anything has changed in the basic form. However, designers keep adapting the look of the Moka to harmonize it with different kitchen styles.

Already knew?

The father invented it, the son spread it: the Moka only became widely known after the Second World War, when Alfonso Bialetti’s son Renato marketed his invention professionally. The entrepreneur built the world’s largest factory for coffee machines – and as a “man with the mustache” himself became an advertising star for “La Moka”. He was associated with the octagonal coffee pot even after his death: his ashes were buried in an oversized mocha in the family grave.

This is what distinguishes coffee from the moka from espresso

Unlike the Moka, which has evolved primarily around aesthetics, home espresso machines have changed a lot over time. Depending on your budget, you can now choose between fully automatic coffee machines, portafilter, pad and capsule machines. All of the good quality machines deliver great-tasting espresso.

But what exactly is the difference between “caffè dalla moka” and espresso? Even if “la moka” is often referred to in German as an espresso maker or espresso pot, this does not quite describe your method of preparation. Strictly speaking, the Moka is not an espresso pot, but a coffee pot. Incidentally, this is also the name of the Italian synonym Caffettiera. The reason: The Moka works with a maximum pressure of 2.5 bar. However, real espresso requires a brewing pressure of between 8 and 10 bar, which can only be achieved by machines.

Caffé from moka and espresso also differ in terms of:

Caffeine content: With the same amount of coffee, a cup of moka contains around 50 mg caffeine and an espresso around 68 mg.
Crema: The classic moka brews intense coffee with little to no crema. However, there are now versions with a special crema valve that produce a nice crema. All espresso machines usually produce espresso with crema.
Price: The Moka is already available for little money. The original from Bialetti costs between 15 and 30 euros, no-name cookers around half that. Good espresso machines, on the other hand, quickly cost a few hundred euros or more.
Size: The Moka takes up little space. It is easy to transport and can also be made to run on the go, for example with a camping stove.
Incidentally, various studies on the coffee consumption habits of Italians show that moka is still the most common way of preparing coffee in Italian households – a preference that is probably passed on from generation to generation. Most Italians even have two pots of different sizes in order to be able to brew the right amount of coffee for different occasions. And even if a modern espresso machine is available, the majority also have a moka at home.

Anyone who chooses Italian coffee also always chooses a piece of the Italian way of life. But is it just the portion of Dolce Vita to take at home that is so appealing, or why are the beans so popular? The secret lies not least in the special roasting.

La Dolce Vita at home

Nobody who has ever traveled to Italy and experienced the way of life live can get away from it so quickly: the stylish boutiques in Milan, radiant white sandy beaches on Sardinia, lively history in Rome or the incomparable charm of Tuscany hardly leave anyone cold. There are also warm-hearted people who enjoy good food and, of course, great coffee, which is simply part of the lifestyle.

You can only take the flair in the small café on the Piazza Navona home with you to a limited extent, but the coffee made in Italy can. And it also tastes fantastic in your own four walls. We explain what makes it so good.

It all depends on the bean

Taste starts with the coffee bean. No coffee is grown in Italy, the Italians also use the world’s most popular varieties Arabica and Robusta. In Germany, a coffee that consists of 100 percent Arabica beans is considered to be of particularly high quality. In Italy things are different. Coffee made from Robusta beans is also appreciated here. Because this is by no means of poorer quality, quite the opposite: the growing area and the further processing of the beans are decisive. Mixtures with Robusta are very popular in Italy. The espresso owes its strong, earthy taste and the fine crema to them. But even pure Arabica simply tastes different in Italy. The peculiarity lies in the special roasting.

The fine art of Italian roasting

Before the beans end up in our coffee machines, they go through a long process. After harvesting, they are first cleaned and dried. They then unfold their full aroma during the subsequent roasting. Depending on how the coffee should taste in the end, different processes are used. There are numerous roasting processes and roasting recipes around the world that must be strictly adhered to. Coffee roasting is almost a craft. An unbalanced process will result in a sour drink with an unpleasant aftertaste.

The knowledge of the perfect roast is often passed on from generation to generation in Italy. Over the years, the strong “Italian roast” has developed, which is appreciated by coffee lovers all over the world. It is the darkest of the five classic degrees of roasting and gives the caffè its unique properties.

Coffee made in Italy: strong and wholesome

The exact degree to which the beans are roasted and how the Italian coffee tastes in the end also differs from region to region. As a rule of thumb, the further south of the boot you are, the stronger the coffee. The aromas vary from chocolaty-sweet to fruity to strongly tart.

Almost all varieties have in common the fact that the strong roasting results in a coffee with a higher bitterness. At the same time, the acidity is particularly low. Compared to German filter coffee, it also contains less caffeine. These properties make Italian coffee delicious and extremely digestible. To really understand the special features, there is only one thing that helps: try it yourself.