When my husband recently started drinking espresso (via our Nespresso), I tried to explain the difference between the many “fancy” espresso drinks – mocha, cappuccino, macchiato, etc, most of which seemed to have originated in Italy. Even this weekend, as we dined in our hotel restaurant, I found myself thinking about the names of the drinks as I stared at my husband’s espresso, which sat next to my daughter’s ice cream topped with homemade whipped cream. Hmmm, I thought – I know there’s a name for that….espresso topped with whipped cream, but I just couldn’t put my finger on it. However, thanks to the iPhone 5, Google, and the very creative graphic below, I found that there is a name for this lovely Italian drink – an espresso con panna.

(Original Graphic from Lokesh Dhakar)

Obviously there are other espresso drinks aside from those pictured above – especially when one considers the variety of flavored syrups to add. But if you’re ever in Italy (or even a Starbucks) and are at a loss for which espresso drink to order, the display above just may help you decide. If drinking an espresso in France is more your style, check out this guide to French café.

Ciao!

(photo source)

When a good friend of mine recently returned from Italy, he raved about the wonderful flavors of this amazing Mediterranean country – the pasta, pesto, wine, and especially, the gelato. Once you have gelato, you’ll never go back, he said.

Gelato….Ice Cream – What’s the Difference?

Well, for anyone who has had both, you can easily taste the difference. Gelato is denser and, often times, has a stronger flavor than ice cream. However, according to Bon Appetit magazine, the difference between gelato and ice cream really lies in the amount of fat and air found in each dessert. Ice cream tends to have more butter fat and air, making in creamier and lighter in texture. On the other hand, gelato starts with a base of eggs, and milk or cream,  yet it contains significantly less fat and air than ice cream, which gives it a richer taste and thicker texture. In other words, a little goes a long, long way. That must be why gelato cups and spoons are so little.

For a truly wonderful and simple Italian dessert, try gelato affogato style. Simply pour a steaming hot shot of pure espresso over a scoop of vanilla gelato. Buon appetito!