Definition Of Affogato

The term affogato originates from the Italian word for drowned. It describes the act of pouring a liquid over a food item, typically cold. It can also denote culinary methods that involve utilizing a small amount of liquid at temperatures between 175-185 °F, being cautious to avoid boiling point.

Affogato Pronunciation

The word affogato is pronounced as [ah-foh-GAH-toh]. Here’s a breakdown of the pronunciation:

  1. “Ah” – The first syllable should have a clear and open sound, similar to the “a” in the word “car” or “father.”
  2. “foh” – The second syllable rhymes with “go.”
  3. “GAH” – The third syllable has a hard “g” sound, like the “ga” in “garden.”
  4. “toh” – The last syllable sounds like “toe.”

So, when you combine it all together, it sounds like “ah-foh-GAH-toh.”

Meaning Of Affogato

Affogato is a traditional dessert or beverage hailing from Italy. The term affogato in Italian literally means drowned. In this dessert or drink, a shot of piping hot espresso or strong coffee is poured over a scoop of chilled ice cream or gelato, effectively drowning it in the coffee. This creates a delightful fusion of hot and cold sensations, as well as the interplay of bitter coffee with sweet, creamy ice cream. Typically served as a dessert, affogato is cherished for its simplicity and the pleasing contrast between coffee and ice cream.

Affogato Recipe

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Ingredients For Traditional Italian Affogato

Freshly Brewed Hot Espresso

For an optimal affogato experience, utilize freshly roasted, high-quality coffee beans and brew a fresh espresso or strong coffee.

High Quality Fior di Latte Gelato Or Vanilla Ice Cream

Fior di Latte is a timeless Italian gelato flavor reminiscent of sweet cream or milk. While it is commonly employed in the traditional Italian affogato recipe, you can opt for vanilla gelato or ice cream as a suitable alternative. You also have the option to experiment with various ice cream flavors, like chocolate or caramel, to craft delightful affogato variations. The key is to ensure that you select high-quality ice cream for the most delicious affogato experience.

Step By Step Instruction On How To Make A Traditional Italian Affogato

Ingredients:

  1. Fior di Latte gelato (1-2 scoops) (Vanilla ice cream can be substituted)
  2. Hot espresso or strong coffee (1-2 shots per serving)
  3. Optional toppings: chocolate shavings, cocoa powder, or a drizzle of caramel for a caramel affogato or chocolate sauce

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Gelato: Start by scooping Fior di Latte gelato into a chilled heat-resistant glass or cup. You can use one or two scoops, depending on your preference.
  2. Brew the Espresso: Brew a shot or two of hot espresso or strong coffee using your espresso machine or coffee maker. Make sure the coffee is fresh and hot.
  3. Pour the Espresso: Immediately after brewing, pour the hot espresso over the Fior di Latte gelato in the glass. The heat from the coffee will start to melt the gelato, creating a harmonious blend of temperatures and flavors.
  4. Optional Toppings: If desired, you can add optional toppings to enhance the presentation and flavor. Consider sprinkling chocolate shavings, dusting cocoa powder, or drizzling caramel or chocolate sauce over the affogato.
  5. Serve Immediately: Affogato is best enjoyed right after preparation while the espresso is hot and the gelato is melting. The contrast of hot coffee and cold gelato is what makes it special.
  6. Enjoy: Savor your Fior di Latte gelato affogato by mixing the coffee and gelato together with a long spoon. Each spoonful will offer a delightful blend of rich coffee and creamy gelato. For a kid friendly version check out Hot Chocolate Affogato.