Leccese Coffee, also known as Salento Coffee, is an icon of Apulian tradition that has won over coffee lovers throughout Italy and beyond. The combination of espresso and almond milk is at the heart of this beverage, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and freshness. In this article, we’ll explore the history of this specialty, share a few anecdotes about its origins, and show you how to make it both at the bar and at home for an authentically Salento experience.
The history of Leccese coffee: where culture meets flavour
Leccese Coffee was born in the heart of the city of Lecce, though the use of almond milk harks back to the Arab influences that have shaped Apulia since ancient times. Originally, it was a drink appreciated by nobles and merchants who praised its refreshing qualities and delicate flavour—especially welcome during the sweltering summer months.
One anecdote tells of how, in the early 1900s, the historic cafés of Lecce’s city centre would compete to serve the most refined and flavourful version of Leccese Coffee. It became a symbol of hospitality and elegance, offered to visitors as a way to showcase the city’s warm welcome.
Making Leccese coffee at the bar
In the bars of Lecce and across Salento, preparing Leccese Coffee is a true ritual. Here are the key steps:
- The perfect espresso: A short, intense espresso is prepared using an espresso machine—strong enough to retain its bold character even when mixed with almond milk.
- Almond milk: Cold almond milk is poured into a tall glass. The ratio can vary, but a 1:1 balance is typically preferred.
- Ice: A generous layer of ice is added—crucial for keeping the drink cool and refreshing.
- Adding the espresso: Finally, the espresso is gently poured over the almond milk, creating a visually appealing contrast in colours and textures.
Making Leccese coffee at home: a moment of pure refreshment
Recreating Leccese Coffee at home is simple and requires just a few ingredients, but attention to detail is key for an authentic result:
- Espresso: If you have an espresso machine, aim for a strong, full-bodied coffee. Alternatively, a moka pot will do—just be sure to use a high-quality coffee blend.
- High-Quality Almond Milk: The almond milk makes all the difference. Choose an artisanal variety or make your own at home for a more genuine flavour.
- Plenty of Ice: Fill a large glass with ice, about three-quarters full.
- Pour and Stir: Pour the almond milk over the ice, add the hot espresso, and stir gently for a balanced taste.
The whipped twist: a modern take on Leccese coffee
For those seeking a contemporary twist, the Whipped Leccese Coffee offers a more modern method. Instead of stirring the espresso and almond milk by hand, the steam wand is used to blend them without melting too much of the ice. This technique enhances the almond aroma and gives the drink a smoother, velvety texture.
Recommended coffee blends for the perfect Leccese
To make a truly authentic Leccese Coffee, the choice of coffee is crucial. Depending on your taste, you can go for a more traditional blend or a specialty profile. Here are two recommended options:
- For a classic and balanced flavour: Try the Mokaflor 80/20 Oro blend. With 80% Arabica and 20% Robusta, it offers a perfect harmony of sweetness and body, ideal for complementing the sweetness of almond milk.
- For a more specialty-style experience: Go for a natural Brazilian coffee like Fazenda Villa Boa from Caffelab. This specialty coffee features notes of chocolate and dried fruit, which pair beautifully with almond milk for a unique aromatic experience.
Leccese coffee: a symbol of culture and identity
Leccese Coffee is more than just a drink—it’s a symbol of culture, hospitality, and Apulian identity. The unique pairing of coffee and almond showcases the region’s ability to highlight local ingredients while creatively embracing cultural influences. Today, Leccese Coffee is served in the finest cafés and bars across Apulia, but it’s also enjoyed far beyond its regional roots.
Whether you call it Leccese or Salento Coffee, this drink captivates with its freshness and unmistakable flavour. Its rich history and simple yet precise preparation techniques make it a must-try for anyone who wants to savour the authentic taste of southern Italy. Whether enjoyed at a bar or in your own kitchen, it’s a true celebration of Salento’s culinary heritage.