The world of coffee offers a wide range of drinks, making them at home can be as enjoyable as enjoying them.
Here are instructions for classic and popular coffee drinks.
Cappuccino with fine microfoam
• Ingredients: 1 part espresso, 2 parts microfoam.
• Manufacturing:
Cappuccino is known for its creamy and smooth microfoam that is poured over the espresso. Start by making a strong espresso. Steam the milk until it forms a silky microfoam; it should be shiny and dense without large bubbles. Slowly pour the milk over the espresso in a circular motion. If desired, garnish with cocoa powder or cinnamon.
Latte
• Ingredients: 1 part espresso, 2–3 parts steamed milk.
• Manufacturing:
Latte is a drink with more milk than cappuccino. Prepare espresso and steam the milk into a slightly thinner microfoam. Slowly pour the milk into the espresso. If desired, you can add flavoring syrups, such as vanilla or caramel.
Flat White
• Ingredients: 1 part espresso, 1 part microfoam.
• Manufacturing:
Flat White is an Australian classic that emphasizes the strength and sophistication of coffee. Prepare an espresso and steam the milk into a very smooth micro-foam. Pour the milk directly over the espresso and enjoy the full flavor of the drink.
Macchiato
• Ingredients: 1 part espresso, a small amount of milk foam.
• Manufacturing:
Macchiato means “spot” in Italian. Prepare an espresso and add a small spoonful of milk foam on top. This drink is perfect for those who love strong coffee.
Other coffee drinks:
• Mocha: A dessert-like drink combining chocolate, espresso, and milk.
• Cortado: A balanced espresso-milk drink with an equal amount of milk to espresso.
• Affogato: A treat combining espresso and vanilla ice cream.
Barista Techniques: Perfect Espresso and Milk Foam
Barista techniques take practice, but they reward you with great coffee drinks. Here are the most important tips for perfect espresso and milk foam.
Perfect espresso
When it comes to making espresso, small details matter.
1. Fresh beans: Use freshly ground beans that are medium to dark roasted.
2. Grinding: A fine grind is ideal for espresso. If the water flows too quickly or slowly, adjust the grinding.
3. Tamping: Press the coffee grounds evenly into the portafilter using approximately 15–20 kg of force. This ensures even extraction.
4. Extraction: The optimal extraction time is 25–30 seconds. The coffee should flow smoothly like honey.
Perfect milk foam
1. Milk choice: Whole milk gives the best texture, but oat or soy milk also works.
2. Steaming: Place the steam wand in the milk jug about 1 cm below the surface. Position the wand slightly to the side so that the milk swirls in the jug, creating microbubbles.
3. Result: The milk froth should be smooth and silky. Use the milk immediately after it is ready.
Coffee brewing methods
Different brewing methods bring out different nuances of coffee. Here are the most common methods: Pour-over
• Description: A sophisticated hand-filtering method that enhances the aromas of the coffee.
• Instructions: Add the filter bag and coarsely ground coffee to the filter. Slowly pour 92–96 °C hot water over the coffee in a spiral motion. The end result is clean and aromatic.
French Press
• Description: The choice of lovers of full-bodied coffee.
• Instructions: Add coarsely ground coffee to the jug (1:15 coffee to water ratio). Pour hot water over, let brew for 4 minutes and press down on the plunger.
Aeropress
• Description: Innovative and versatile method.
• Instructions: Add coffee and water to the Aeropress, let it brew for a moment and press through the filter.
Mocha pot
• Description: An Italian classic that produces espresso-like coffee on the stovetop. • Instructions: Fill the bottom with water, add ground coffee to the filter and heat. Seasonal recipes
Coffee adapts beautifully to the seasons.
Winter recipes
• Pumpkin Spice Latte: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom to espresso and milk. Garnish with whipped cream and cinnamon.
• Irish Coffee: Mix strong coffee, brown sugar and whiskey. Top with whipped cream.
Summer recipes
• Cold Brew: Steep coarsely ground coffee in cold water for 12–24 hours. Strain and serve over ice.
• Iced Mocha: Mix iced coffee, milk chocolate syrup and milk. Garnish with whipped cream.
Coffee Pairings: Food and Desserts
The right coffee pairing partner can take coffee and food pairing to the next level. Espresso and desserts
• Dark chocolate cake, tiramisu and nutty pastries highlight the strength of espresso.
Latte and pastries
• Light treats like croissants and berry pies complement the smooth taste of a latte.
Pour-over and savory foods
• Aromatic coffee goes well with cheeses, nuts and fruits. Iced coffees and summer treats
• Fresh fruits like strawberries and melons are an excellent pair with iced coffees.
