Cortado coffee is one of the most popular espresso-based drinks, enjoyed by coffee lovers worldwide. If you’re curious about what makes a cortado unique, you’re in the right place.
In this article, FnB Coffee will dive deep into what a cortado is, its origins, how it’s prepared, and the best types of beans to use for this beverage. Whether you’re a seasoned barista or a casual coffee drinker, you’ll find valuable insights into the nuances of cortado coffee. By the end, you’ll be well-equipped to make your own perfect cortado at home.
What Is Cortado Coffee?
A cortado coffee is a simple yet delicious espresso-based beverage that consists of equal parts espresso and steamed milk. This ratio of milk to espresso is what sets it apart from other drinks like lattes and cappuccinos, which have more milk. The smoothness of the steamed milk balances the bold flavor of espresso, making it less intense than straight espresso but richer than a simple macchiato.
The word “cortado” comes from the Spanish verb “cortar,” meaning “to cut,” which refers to how the milk “cuts” the intensity of the espresso. What makes this drink stand out is its balance between the boldness of espresso and the creaminess of milk, which creates a smooth and satisfying flavor profile.
The History of Cortado Coffee
The origin of cortado traces back to Spain, where it has been a beloved drink for many years. Spanish coffee culture has long emphasized strong espresso drinks, and the cortado was created to tame the potency of espresso while still maintaining its rich flavor.
Though cortado is deeply ingrained in Spanish coffee culture, its popularity has spread internationally, especially in countries with a strong coffee culture like the United States and Australia.
Over time, variations of the cortado have appeared, but the classic version with equal parts espresso and steamed milk remains the most popular.
How to Make Cortado Coffee
Making a cortado coffee at home is relatively simple, but it requires the right technique to achieve the perfect balance. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you prepare this delightful drink:
1. Brew the Espresso
Begin by brewing a shot of espresso using your espresso machine. The espresso should be strong and rich, as it forms the base of the cortado.
2. Steam the Milk
While the espresso is brewing, steam the milk. The milk should be steamed to about 150°F (65°C), which is the ideal temperature for creating a creamy texture without scalding the milk.
3. Combine the Espresso and Milk
Once both the espresso and the milk are ready, pour the steamed milk into the espresso. Aim for a 1:1 ratio, with equal parts espresso and milk. The milk should smooth out the espresso’s intensity, creating a drink that’s creamy but still flavorful.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Your cortado coffee is now ready to serve. You can enjoy it as is or with a light sprinkle of cocoa powder or cinnamon for added flavor.
What Makes Cortado Coffee Different from Other Espresso-Based Drinks?
Cortado coffee stands out from other espresso drinks due to its balanced flavor profile. Unlike a cappuccino, which has a frothy texture due to more milk foam, or a latte, which uses a higher milk-to-espresso ratio, the cortado offers a harmonious combination of espresso and steamed milk.
The key difference between a cortado and a macchiato is the amount of milk. While a macchiato consists of just a small amount of milk foam added to the espresso, a cortado uses an equal amount of steamed milk to create a more balanced and smoother flavor.
If you prefer a drink that’s not as milky as a latte but still not as intense as a shot of espresso, then a cortado is the perfect choice for you.
What Is the Best Coffee Bean for Cortado?
When preparing a cortado, the type of coffee bean you use is crucial. Since cortado coffee is all about balancing the rich flavor of espresso with the creaminess of steamed milk, using high-quality coffee beans is essential.
For the perfect cortado, choose a coffee bean with a smooth, well-balanced flavor. Beans from regions like Indonesia, Ethiopia, or Colombia are excellent choices, as they tend to produce rich, full-bodied coffees with a mild acidity that complements the steamed milk.
Why Does Coffee Bean Quality Matter for Cortado?
The quality of the coffee beans plays a significant role in the taste and overall experience of your cortado. A high-quality espresso made from the best beans will ensure that your cortado is smooth and flavorful, with a distinct richness that doesn’t get overpowered by the milk.
Beans from reputable suppliers, like FnB Coffee, are essential in crafting a great cortado. FnB Coffee is known for offering the finest coffee beans from Indonesia, a country renowned for its rich coffee heritage. By using beans from such high-quality sources, you can ensure that your cortado delivers a bold yet smooth flavor that enhances the overall experience.
Conclusion
In summary, cortado coffee is a delightful espresso-based drink known for its balance of espresso and steamed milk. It offers a smooth and rich flavor without being too intense, making it a perfect choice for those who want something between a straight espresso and a milky latte.
For the best cortado experience, always opt for high-quality coffee beans. Suppliers like FnB Coffee, offering the finest Indonesian coffee beans, are perfect for creating the bold yet smooth cortado flavor you desire.
If you’re looking to enhance your cortado coffee experience, consider using the best beans available from FnB Coffee. As a trusted supplier of premium Indonesian coffee beans, FnB Coffee ensures that every cup of your cortado is rich, smooth, and full of flavor. Visit FnB Coffee and our best Indonesian green coffee beans to elevate your coffee game!
I write for FnB Coffee, and I always have a passion for writing anything that can presents Indonesian Coffee Diversity. From the highlands of Sumatra to the volcanic soils of Java and the unique flavours of Sulawesi, I hope to tell a plethora of stories to showcase the history, customs, and creativity behind Indonesia’s coffee culture. From the cultivation side of farming and sustainability, to brewing and flavor notes, my articles dive into everything to find out what makes Indonesian coffee truly one of a kind.
