What is a basic latte?
A basic latte, short for "caffè latte" in Italian, is a popular espresso-based coffee drink made with espresso and steamed milk. Here's how it's typically prepared:
Espresso Shot: The foundation of a latte is a shot of espresso. Espresso is a concentrated coffee brewed by forcing hot water through finely-ground coffee beans. This shot is usually one or two ounces.
Steamed Milk: Steamed milk is added to the espresso. It's typically prepared by heating milk with steam to create a creamy, frothy texture. The amount of steamed milk in a latte is more than the amount of espresso, resulting in a creamy and mild coffee flavor.
Milk Foam (Optional): Some lattes are topped with a small amount of milk foam, created during the steaming process. The amount of foam varies, and some people prefer a "dry" or "wet" foam, depending on their taste.
Flavorings (Optional): Lattes can be customized with various flavorings, such as vanilla, caramel, hazelnut, or even chocolate. These are often added as syrups before or after steaming the milk.
Artistic Designs (Optional): Skilled baristas may create decorative designs or patterns on the milk foam's surface, known as latte art.
A basic latte is known for its balanced and mild coffee flavor, with the creaminess of steamed milk mellowing the intensity of the espresso. It's a popular choice among coffee enthusiasts who appreciate the harmonious blend of coffee and milk. Latte variations, such as the flavored or iced latte, have also gained popularity, offering a wide range of options for coffee lovers.
