From goat's stimulant to global sensation: The rising tide of Ristretto coffee

Legend suggests that the first coffee enthusiast was a 9th-century Ethiopian shepherd who noticed extraordinary stimulation of goats that feasted on coffee beans. Fascinated, the shepherd brewed a drink from the seeds and was delighted with its stimulating qualities. Shortly after, the beverage spread across all Arab countries. "It's almost as black as ink and very beneficial for ailments, especially stomach-related ones," wrote Leonhard Rauwolf, a German botanist and traveler who introduced coffee beans to Europe during his 1573 expedition to the Middle East.

Many aficionados appreciate the "small black," or the strong and aromatic espresso, which originated at the beginning of the 20th century when Luigi Bezzera, an Italian, patented the first coffee machine. During this period, ristretto was also born — brewed with less water and in a shorter time, resulting in an exceptionally intense flavor and aroma that's less bitter and sweeter than traditional espresso.

This potent brew was mostly enjoyed in Italy for a long time. It wasn't until the 80s that it gained traction in other parts of the world, primarily in the United States, thanks to David Schomer, the owner of the famous "Espresso Vivace" cafe in Seattle.

Today, you can find ristretto in hundreds of cafes. Making it at home is also pretty simple.

Although ristretto is brewed with less water, it contains less caffeine (5.8 oz. per 3.4 fl oz) than espresso (7.48 oz.). However, it remains a rich source of this alkaloid that stimulates the central nervous system by prompting the release of neurotransmitters such as acetylcholine, norepinephrine, and dopamine. Consequently, it can boost mood, concentration, self-confidence, the ability to respond quickly to simple tasks and motor coordination. As well as increase alertness, reducing sleepiness and fatigue.

Caffeine can also accelerate the heart rate, widen the coronary, renal, and skin vessels, and narrow brain vessels, effectively alleviating tension headaches and migraines. It helps improve glucose metabolism and protects blood vessels in the brain. Additionally, it stimulates the respiratory system, which is why caffeine is a common ingredient in bronchodilator drugs.

Moreover, coffee provides the body with a wealth of vitamins (B1, B2, B12, folate), minerals (such as calcium, potassium, sodium, magnesium, iron, phosphorus, zinc, and copper), and beneficial antioxidants. These chemical compounds effectively neutralize free radicals, slowing down aging processes and reducing the risk of diseases related to the circulatory system or cancers.

To prepare ristretto, use medium or dark roast coffee, which offers an optimal balance between bitterness and acidity. You'll also need a high-quality lever or automatic espresso machine. Traditionally, ristretto is made with about 0.53 oz. of finely ground coffee and 0.68 fl oz of water. It should be brewed for around 15-17 seconds, then poured into small, gently preheated cups. Like espresso, your ristretto should be crowned with a thick nutty-colored crema (foam).