What is a Cortado Coffee, and How to Make One?
If the world of espresso-based drinks leaves you a little overwhelmed, the cortado might be the perfect entry point. Picture a delicious balance between the boldness of espresso and velvety, steamed milk, all contained within a small, but mighty, beverage. It's a coffee enthusiast's delight. This comprehensive guide will delve into the world of Cortados, answering all your burning questions, including:
What is a Cortado Coffee?
In a cortado, the ratio of espresso to milk is typically 1:1, meaning that the amount of espresso is equal to the amount of steamed milk. This creates a less acidic, more rounded experience compared to other espresso drinks, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy the taste of espresso but prefer a softer, less intense coffee experience.
The drink is usually served in a small, 4-6 oz glass, highlighting its focus on balance and flavour rather than volume.
A Brief History of the Cortado:
The cortado hails from Spain, the name "cortado" meaning "cut" in Spanish. This refers to the way the sharpness of the espresso is "cut" with the addition of milk. Unlike other coffee drinks, a cortado emphasises an equal ratio of espresso and milk, creating a beautifully balanced and less acidic experience, making it a great choice for those who enjoy the taste of espresso without the full intensity.
How Does a Cortado Differ from Other Coffees?
The cortado's distinct qualities separate it from its coffee cousins:
Cappuccino: While both use espresso and steamed milk, cappuccinos feature a thicker, foamier layer and a larger volume (around 5-6 oz).
Macchiato: A macchiato is a bold shot of espresso marked with just a dollop of creamy milk (around 2-3 oz) for a more concentrated, espresso-forward taste.
Latte: Lattes have a greater milk-to-espresso ratio (usually 1:3 or 1:4) making them larger and milder than cortados (typically 4-6 oz).
Flat White: This is perhaps the closest relative to the cortado. Both use espresso and steamed milk in a similar range (4-6 oz) but with a slight difference. Flat whites have a slightly higher milk-to-espresso ratio (around 2:3) and a more microfoam texture, creating a smoother and slightly lighter drink compared to the cortado.
Americano: Born from the desire for a longer coffee drink, the Americano mixes espresso with hot water, typically in a 1:2 ratio, resulting in a diluted yet flavourful cup that retains espresso's essence but with less intensity. It's larger (usually around 8-12 oz) and is perfect for those who enjoy black coffee but with a smoother edge.
Piccolo: Often considered the cortado's close relative, the Piccolo, or Piccolo latte, takes root in Australia, featuring a single shot of espresso topped with warm, frothy milk, served in a small latte glass. While similar in volume to the cortado, the Piccolo leans slightly more towards milk, offering a softer, lighter taste, making it ideal for those who find a straight espresso too bold but a latte too mild.
What Milk is Best for a Cortado?
When it comes to the milk for your cortado, whole milk is a popular choice as its higher fat content creates a creamier texture and enhances the sweetness of the coffee. However, feel free to experiment with different milks based on your preference:
Whole milk: Classic choice for a richer and creamier cortado.
Skim milk: Lighter option with less fat content but may result in a slightly thinner texture.
Plant-based milk: Opt for barista-blend plant milk specifically designed for steaming and maintaining a good texture. Oat milk is a popular choice for its creamy texture and subtle sweetness.
How to Make a Cortado Coffee: Step-by-Step Guide
Ready to try your hand at making this delicious drink? Here's what you need and what to do:
Equipment:
Espresso machine
Milk pitcher
4-6 oz cortado glass (a Gibraltar glass is traditional)
Ingredients:
2 oz (double shot) of finely ground espresso
2 oz steamed milk
Instructions:
Pull your espresso: Extract a double shot of espresso directly into your cortado glass.
Steam the milk: Steam your chosen milk until it's just heated through, creating a velvety texture with minimal microfoam.
Pour the milk: Gently pour the steamed milk directly over the espresso. Try to achieve a 1:1 ratio of espresso and milk.
Serve and enjoy!: Cortados are best enjoyed immediately.
Tips for a Barista Worthy Cortado:
Use high-quality beans: Freshly ground coffee always enhances the flavor of your coffee.
Get your milk texture right: Avoid overheating your milk and create a smooth, microfoam texture for the perfect balance.
Experiment with ratios: While the traditional ratio is 1:1, feel free to slightly adjust based on your preferences.
The cortado is a delightful addition to any coffee lover's repertoire. Its simplicity and balance make it approachable for both coffee aficionados and those venturing further into the intricate world of espresso drinks.
