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What is a Cortado Coffee?
A cortado coffee is a popular drink among coffee lovers. But what is a cortado coffee, and why do people like it so much?
The word "cortado" in Spanish means "cut." In coffee terms, a cortado is an espresso "cut" with an equal amount of warm milk. This makes the coffee less strong and more balanced. The cortado has a smooth taste that is not too bitter nor too sweet.
The milk in a cortado is not frothy, so the drink has a smooth texture. This allows the rich flavour of the espresso to come through, balanced by the creamy milk.
History of the Cortado
The cortado's origins can be traced back to the early 20th century. Back then, it was known as "Café con Leche Pequeño", which translates to "small coffee with milk". This name perfectly captures the essence of the drink: a delightful way to soften the intensity of espresso with a touch of warm milk.
Regional variations
From its humble beginnings in Spain to its international acclaim, the cortado continues to be a delightful way to enjoy espresso. It can also vary in different regions, for example:
Latin America: The traditional cortado reigns supreme in many Latin American countries, often served alongside a light breakfast or pastry. Here, it's commonly known as "café cortado" and revered for its balanced flavour and smooth texture.
Gibraltar (Spain): This twist on the traditional cortado is served in a slightly larger glass, around 125ml. They also use a bolder espresso shot, creating a more robust coffee experience with a bigger serving size.
Latin America: The traditional cortado reigns supreme in many Latin American countries, often served alongside a light breakfast or pastry. Here, it's commonly known as "café cortado" and revered for its balanced flavour and smooth texture.
Gibraltar (Spain): This twist on the traditional cortado is served in a slightly larger glass, around 125ml. They also use a bolder espresso shot, creating a more robust coffee experience with a bigger serving size.
How to make a cortado
1. Brew espresso: Prepare a double espresso on the hob (if using a Moka pot) or using an espresso machine.
2. Steam the milk: Heat an equal amount of milk until it is warm but not frothy.
3. Mix them together: Pour the steamed milk into the espresso, combining equal parts espresso and steamed milk.
2. Steam the milk: Heat an equal amount of milk until it is warm but not frothy.
3. Mix them together: Pour the steamed milk into the espresso, combining equal parts espresso and steamed milk.
Cortado vs macchiato coffee
Comparing a cortado vs. macchiato shows another difference. A macchiato is an espresso with just a small amount of frothy milk. This makes it stronger than a cortado. For a tasty macchiato, you can try our Latte Macchiato Pods...
Why is the cortado so popular?
One reason people love the cortado is its simplicity. It does not have the frothy milk of a cappuccino or the amount of milk in a latte. Instead, it offers a straightforward blend of coffee and milk. This makes it a perfect choice for those who want to enjoy the taste of coffee without too much milk or foam. Another reason for its popularity is its size. The small 125ml serving is just right for a quick coffee break. It provides a good amount of caffeine without too much.
How to enjoy a cortado
There are many ways to enjoy a cortado. Some people like to have it with a sweet treat like a pastry or a piece of chocolate. The smooth, balanced flavour of the cortado pairs well with sweet foods. Others prefer to enjoy it on its own, savouring the rich taste of the espresso and milk. If you are making a cortado at home, you can experiment with different types of milk. Some people prefer whole milk for its creamy texture, while others like to use almond milk or oat milk for a different flavour. You can also try adding a touch of sweetener or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a special touch. To sum up, a cortado coffee is a simple yet delicious drink that balances the strong taste of espresso with the smoothness of milk. It’s a great choice for anyone who loves coffee. Whether you are at a café or making it at home, a cortado is worth trying. Its simplicity, elegance, and rich flavour make it stand out in the crowded coffee landscape.
Next time you find yourself in a café or at home craving a well-balanced coffee drink, consider making or ordering a cortado. And for those looking for convenience, don't forget to try our Cortado Espresso Pods for an easy and delicious cortado experience. For coffee options and to explore different types of coffee drinks, visit Dolce Gusto's World of Coffee.
