If you’re an avid coffee drinker, French roast and Italian roast are two terms you must’ve come across. But do you know what they actually mean? In this article, we compare French roast vs Italian roast.
You might’ve suspected that the words “French” and “Italian” have something to do with where the coffee comes from or where it’s processed. But neither is true. To know what’s the difference between these two types of coffee and more, keep reading!
Table of Contents
What is the Difference Between French Roast and Italian Roast?
The fundamental difference between French and Italian Roasts lies in their roasting time. While both are dark roasts, the Italian roast is roasted for slightly longer than a French Roast.
As a consequence of a more extended roasting period, the Italian roast has stronger notes. There are other nuanced differences between the French and the Italian roast. Read on to find out more about each roasting technique, then refer to the table at the end for easier comparison.
What is French Roast?
French Roast is a coffee roasting method that became popular in and around Europe in the 1800s. This roasting method is native to France and differs significantly from other European roasts like Vienna roast.
It is one of the darkest roasts of coffee. According to the Specialty Coffee Association of America, it is usually between 28-35 in terms of darkness. This number is based on the Agtron Gourmet Scale.
French roast coffee beans hit an internal temperature of 464 F. You can also identify French roast beans by checking their appearance. If there’s a thin layer of oil just appearing on the surface, it’s most likely a French roast.
Taste
French roast tastes intense and earthy, with its flavor lying on the firmer side of dark roast coffee beans. Their toasted and smoky notes come from the oils exposed by the roasting method.
However, depending on where the beans come from, they might even have some lighter notes of sweetness and citrus. French roasts also have more caffeine content than Italian.
What is Italian Roast Coffee?
Another famous dark roast, the Italian roast, as the name suggests, first originated in Italy. It is a tough and dark roast, much darker than the French.
Since these coffee beans have been roasted for a long time, they are incredibly charred. As a result, it’s challenging to identify the quality or the age of Italian roasts once the beans are fully roasted.
The internal temperature of Italian roasts is between 437-446 F. The beans are roasted slowly until all the oils pop on the surface, giving the beans a rich and shiny texture. About 20-30% of their original weight is lost by the time the roasting is complete.
Taste
Unlike their French counterparts, Italian roasts do not have any acidic notes. They are easier to digest but extremely strong in taste. The dark roasting gives them a charred note and a deeply smoky flavor.
But even the best Italian roast coffee is not the darkest roast. So if you’re looking for an even more intense roast, you can check out Spanish roasts.
How to Make French Roast or Italian Roast at Home?
While both French and Italian Roasts are readily available in the market if you’re the kind of person who likes to roast their coffee from scratch at home, here’s your guide to making the perfect French and Italian Roasts.
Steps to Follow:
- A popcorn maker is usually the best for roasting coffee. One that works on the stovetop is optimum.
- Once your popcorn maker is slightly hot, pour in your coffee beans. Keep tossing and turning them regularly to achieve a consistent color.
- After a while, you will hear a cracking sound. This sound indicates that the coffee has reached a light roast. This cracking sound occurs when the energy inside the beans causes them to explode as the cell structure expands.
- After a little while, you will hear another subtler cracking sound. This second crack is an indicator of a medium to dark roast. At this stage, your French roast is just about ready. You can let them stay on the heat until you see the thin coat of oil appearing on them.
- If you’re seeking an Italian roast, you have to leave the beans in several seconds to a few minutes more after the second crack until the color of the beans starts to darken more. However, ensure that you are careful enough to not end up burning the beans.
French Roast Vs Italian Roast – Comparison Table
Now that you know how to make French Roast vs Italian Roast coffee, check out the comparison table below to find all the differences between French Roast and Italian roast.
| Category | French Roast | Italian Roast |
|---|---|---|
| Roast Level | Dark | Very Dark |
| Roasting Time | 12-13 minutes | 14-16 minutes |
| Bean Appearance | Dark Brown | Nearly Black |
| Flavor Profile | Smoky, Bold | Bold, Rich |
| Acidity | Low | Low |
| Caffeine Content | Same as lighter roasts | Same as lighter roasts |
| Ideal Brewing Method | Espresso, French Press | Espresso, French Press |
| Food Pairings | Dark Chocolate, Grilled Meats | Chocolate Desserts, Grilled Meats |
This comparison table highlights some of the key differences between French Roast and Italian Roast, including their roast level, flavor profile, and ideal brewing method. It can be a helpful tool for coffee lovers who are trying to decide which type of roast to try next.
Some Coffee Beverages to Prepare Using French and Italian Roasts
Now that you’ve learned all about French Roast vs. Italian Roast Starbucks isn’t the only place you can get your desired coffee beverage. Here is some inspiration for your next cup of morning coffee that you can prepare with any dark roast coffee.
- Americano: It’s a refreshing espresso that’s perfect for a boost of energy in the morning.
- Caffe Mocha: If you’re in the mood for something chocolatey, this is the ideal beverage.
- Cappuccino: If you like milky coffee, a cappuccino is going to be your go-to drink.
These coffee recipes and several more can be prepared using a dark roast. You can also prepare some espressos with medium-dark roasts, but they won’t give you as intense a flavor.
Conclusion
That was all you needed to know about French roasts vs. Italian roasts. If you’re looking for a strong shot of caffeine in the morning, go for the former. But if you’re a fan of the burnt flavor of dark roasts, choose Italian. And with our recipe suggestions, you’ll hopefully have the perfect cup!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are French and Italian roast coffees?
French and Italian roasts are two types of dark roast coffees. They are made by roasting coffee beans at high temperatures for a longer period of time than lighter roasts.
What is the difference between French and Italian roast coffees?
The main difference between French and Italian roast coffees is the roasting process. French roast coffee beans are roasted at a higher temperature than Italian roast coffee beans, which results in a darker and more intense flavor. Italian roast coffee beans are roasted for a shorter period of time, resulting in a slightly lighter and less intense flavor.
Which type of roast is better for making espresso?
Both French and Italian roast coffees are good for making espresso. However, Italian roast coffee beans are more commonly used in Italy for making espresso, and they are known for their rich and full-bodied flavor.
Can I use French or Italian roast coffee beans for making cold brew?
Yes, you can use French or Italian roast coffee beans for making cold brew. In fact, dark roast coffees like French and Italian roasts are often recommended for making cold brew because they have a bold and rich flavor that pairs well with cold milk or cream.
What are some foods that pair well with French and Italian roast coffees?
French and Italian roast coffees pair well with dark chocolate, which has a similar rich and intense flavor. They also pair well with other bold and flavorful foods like steak, roasted vegetables, and spicy dishes.