Cortado coffee has been popular in Europe for many years, but is having a moment in the US with specialty coffee shops now offering it on their menus. Also known as a cortado, Gibraltar or piccolo, this coffee drink is made with espresso and warm milk, and comes in many variations. So, what exactly is a cortado, and what makes it unique? Let’s explore.
At its core, a cortado is a shot of espresso mixed with warm milk. The ratio of espresso to milk is usually 1:1, and baristas add a small layer of foam for taste. The size of the cortado also varies, but it’s usually served in a 4-6 oz glass. That being said, the traditional cortado is usually served in a smaller glass, such as a 3 oz demitasse cup.
The primary benefit of the cortado is the balance between coffee and milk. The ratio is usually 1:1, so neither coffee nor milk overwhelms the flavor. Thus, it avoids the bitter taste of coffee on its own, and does not overwhelm the senses with the sweetness of milk. The result is a smooth and flavorful espresso-based coffee drink.
The cortado also differs from other espresso-based coffee drinks such as a latte. Unlike lattes, cortados are poured directly into the same cup and mixed, while lattes are made separately and then blended. Thus, cortados are served warmer than lattes and have a creamier texture. This makes the cortado a great option for those looking for a creamy cup of coffee but don’t have time to make a latte.
One key to making a great cortado is to use fresh, quality espresso. The espresso should be freshly ground and served at the perfect temperature. The milk should also be warm but not boiling. If either ingredient is off, it can ruin the flavor of the drink. Baristas also need to properly steam and pour the milk to get the perfect balance between espresso and milk.
The popularity of cortado coffees is on the rise. As specialty coffees become more popular, many are turning to cortados for their smooth and balanced flavor. For those looking for a tasty alternative to the traditional latte, cortadas are definitely worth a try.
Cortado Varieties
The great thing about cortados is that there are many varieties to choose from. For example, the cortado can be made with either skimmed or whole milk, as well as almond and oat milk. Flavored syrups can also be added to give the drink a unique taste. For those looking for a vegan alternative, some coffee shops are now offering “coconut cortado” and “almond marzipan cortado.”
In addition to the traditional cortado, there are also several other coffee drinks with a similar flavor profile, such as a manchado, Gibraltar, and terrazo. These coffee drinks use a similar ratio of espresso to milk, but the amount of espresso can be adjusted to suit individual tastes. A manchado, for example, typically contains less espresso than a traditional cortado, while a terrazo contains more espresso than a cortado.
If you’re looking for a creative twist on the classic cortado, try adding flavorings such as chocolate, cinnamon, or even cardamom for a unique, sophisticated taste. You can even experiment with different sugars and creams to create a new flavor profile. Of course, always remember to never overpower the espresso with added ingredients.
Best Milk Type
When it comes to making a cortado the type of milk you use can affect its final flavor. Low fat, or skimmed, milk results in a milder flavor, while whole milk has a richer, creamier flavor. Almond and oat milk have a subtle nutty flavor and won’t overpower the espresso.
Because cortados are smaller drinks, there’s less room for milk, so it’s important to choose the right type of milk for the desired taste. The temperature of the milk is also important; make sure it’s warm but isn’t boiling. Too hot of a milk can ruin the flavor, so if in doubt, ask your barista for advice.
However, when it comes to cortado making, most baristas agree that whole milk gives the best results – the creamy, nutty taste of the milk pairs well with the espresso, resulting in a smooth and flavorful drink.
History
Cortado coffee has been popular in Europe for many years, with its origins tracing back to Spain and Portugal. According to some historians, cortado coffee was originally used as a morning pick-me-up to help with fatigue. The espresso was paired with milk for a smoother flavor and was believed to give people more energy.
In addition, cortado coffee has traditionally been served with a snack. In Spain and Portugal, a cortado is usually accompanied by a piece of cake or biscuit, while in Italy it’s served with a piece of espresso cake or biscuit. So, if you’re looking for a snack to go with your cortado, you can’t go wrong with a slice of cake or biscuit!
These days, however, cortados are gaining popularity in many countries around the world, not just in Europe. As specialty coffee shops become more popular, it’s not uncommon to find cortados on menus. The 1:1 ratio of espresso to milk makes this a perfect choice for those looking for a unique, delicious coffee drink.
Taste
What makes a cortado so unique? The answer is the 1:1 ratio of espresso to milk. This balance of flavors yields a drink that isn’t too sweet or too bitter. The flavor is also much richer and more intense than a latte, as there is less milk and more espresso.
Additionally, the crema, or foam, adds a slight sweetness and smoothness to the flavor. The crema is created when air is forced into the espresso and milk mixture, which gives the cortado a creamy, velvety texture. Many customers who try a cortado for the first time comment on the unique flavor, as it tastes entirely different than a latte or cappuccino.
How to make a cortado
Making a cortado is not difficult, but there are some tips and tricks to help you achieve the perfect cup. Start by selecting high-quality espresso beans. A dark-roasted espresso blend works best for this drink, as it has the most intense flavor. Then, grind the beans to the desired coarseness and tamp them into the coffee machine portafilter.
Next, pull the espresso shot and steam the milk. Make sure the milk is just heated – not boiling – to prevent the coffee from becoming too bitter. Then, pour the espresso and milk together, in a 1:1 ratio. The crema should be slightly visible on top of the mix.
Finally, stir the espresso and milk together and add a little sugar, if desired. This will give the cortado a sweeter flavor, but if you prefer the espresso to be more intense, you can omit the sugar. Once everything is stirred together, your cortado is ready to enjoy!
Conclusion
Cortados can now be found at many specialty coffee shops around the world. The unique flavor profile and balance of espresso and milk make this drink a popular choice for coffee lovers. Whether you’re looking for a creamy beverage or a unique coffee experience, the cortado is definitely worth trying.
