Caffè con Sambuca
Cocktails
The classic Italian after-dinner pick-me-up: a hot shot of espresso spiked with anise-sweet sambuca, often served con la mosca with a few coffee beans floating on top.
The classic Italian after-dinner pick-me-up: a hot shot of espresso spiked with anise-sweet sambuca, often served con la mosca with a few coffee beans floating on top.
Pull a fresh, hot single shot of espresso and pour it into a small heatproof glass or espresso cup.
Add the sambuca and give it a gentle stir to combine.
Float three whole coffee beans on top for the traditional con la mosca garnish.
Serve right away while it's hot, sipping slowly as a digestivo.
Per serving
The story
This drink belongs to the Italian tradition of the ammazzacaffè (literally "coffee killer"), the small shot of liquor taken after coffee to round off a meal and help digestion. Pairing espresso with sambuca, the anise liqueur most associated with central Italy and Rome, is one of the most common versions you'll find in homes and bars across the country. The garnish of three coffee beans, known as con la mosca ("with the fly"), is a Roman touch said to represent health, happiness, and prosperity. Some people enjoy briefly flaming the sambuca to lightly toast the beans, though plenty serve it simply with no fuss at all.
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