Espresso is a concentrated form of coffee made with specially roasted beans and an espresso machine. It is a type of coffee and brewing method that uses high water pressure and finely ground beans to make a small, concentrated shot. The only real difference between espresso and coffee is in the beans and the brewing methods. Espresso is brewed through high water pressure and finely ground espresso beans, while coffee is brewed a bit slower, with much less pressure and with lighter roasted beans. Espresso beans are very dark and are roasted longer than regular coffee beans. The long roast time ensures that oils are released from the coffee beans, which will result in the thick, full texture you recognize in an espresso shot. Espresso is thicker than regular coffee and has a layer of “crema” on top, which results from air bubbles mixing with the coffee’s oils. Espresso can be enjoyed on its own or used as the base for various other coffee drinks, such as cappuccinos, lattes, and Americanos.