Ammazzacaffè facts for kids
Ammazzacaffè (pronounced am-maht-sah-kahf-FEH) is an Italian tradition. The name means "coffee killer" in Italian. It's a small drink, usually a type of liqueur, enjoyed right after a cup of coffee. This custom is very common in Italy, especially after a big meal with family or friends. It's seen as a nice way to complete the dining experience.
What is Ammazzacaffè?
Ammazzacaffè is a small serving of a strong, often herbal, drink. It's meant to be sipped after your coffee. While the name "coffee killer" might sound dramatic, it simply means it helps to finish the taste of coffee and signal the end of a meal. It's a moment to relax and enjoy the final flavors of your food.
A Bit of History
This tradition started a long time ago among wealthy families in Italy. After a fancy dinner, people would often move to a different room. There, they would enjoy a small glass of a special drink like Cognac or brandy. This was a way to relax and chat after the meal. Over time, this custom became popular with everyone in Italy, adapting to local tastes and drinks.
Modern Italian Custom
Today, Ammazzacaffè is still a big part of Italian culture. You might see people enjoying it after lunch or dinner. The drinks used can vary, but they are often local bitters or other traditional Italian liqueurs. Each region of Italy might have its own favorite drink for this custom.
Regional Traditions
In some parts of northern Italy, like the Veneto and Trentino regions, there's a special way to enjoy the Ammazzacaffè. People might pour a small amount of a drink, often Grappa, into their empty coffee cup. They swirl it around to rinse out the last drops of coffee, and then they drink it. This tradition is called resentin. In the Piedmont region, a similar custom is known as pusacaffè, which means "push-coffee." It's another way to make sure you enjoy every last bit of the meal's flavors.
See Also
- Italian cuisine
- Coffee culture
