The world of coffee is rich with various brewing methods and beverage styles, but few are as simple and elegant as the cortado. If you are a coffee lover who enjoys balance between strong coffee flavor and creamy milk, the cortado might just be your new favorite drink. But what exactly is a cortado, and how can you make it at home?
This guide will walk you through the history, key characteristics, and steps for making the perfect cortado, so you can enjoy this delightful coffee beverage whenever you like.
What is a Cortado?
A cortado is a coffee drink that originated in Spain. The name “cortado” comes from the Spanish verb “cortar,” meaning “to cut.” This is fitting, as the espresso is “cut” with a small amount of warm milk to reduce its acidity and bitterness, without diluting the bold coffee flavor.
In essence, a cortado consists of:
- One part espresso (usually a double shot)
- One part steamed milk (with no froth)
Unlike cappuccinos or lattes, the milk in a cortado is steamed but not frothed, keeping the beverage smooth and light, with a perfect balance between the intensity of the espresso and the creaminess of the milk.
History and Origins of the Cortado
The cortado’s roots are embedded in Spain’s vibrant café culture, particularly in the Basque region. Coffee is a staple in Spanish social life, and locals often enjoy a cortado as an afternoon pick-me-up. From Spain, the cortado traveled to Portugal, Cuba, and eventually Latin America, where it became an everyday staple.
In the U.S. and other parts of the world, the cortado has gained popularity among coffee enthusiasts who want something stronger than a cappuccino but less intense than a straight shot of espresso.
Key Characteristics of a Cortado
Here’s what distinguishes a cortado from other espresso drinks:
- Equal Ratio: Unlike lattes or macchiatos, a cortado uses equal parts espresso and steamed milk, resulting in a balanced, bold flavor.
- No Froth: The milk in a cortado is steamed, not frothed, which means it has a smoother, more liquid consistency.
- Small Serving Size: Typically, a cortado is served in a 4-5 ounce glass, which helps concentrate the flavors.
- Bold but Balanced: The espresso retains its boldness, but the milk smooths out its sharp edges, creating a perfect harmony between the two.
How to Make a Cortado at Home
While it may sound like a simple drink, the cortado is all about achieving balance. Here’s how you can recreate this Spanish classic in the comfort of your own home.
Ingredients:
- 1 double shot of espresso (around 2 ounces)
- 2 ounces of steamed milk (whole milk is ideal for texture)
Equipment:
- Espresso machine (or a Moka pot if you don’t have one)
- Milk steamer (or a microwave if you don’t have a steamer)
- 4-5 ounce glass cup (often referred to as a “gibraltar glass”)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Espresso
Start by brewing a double shot of espresso. If you have an espresso machine, use finely ground coffee beans and brew two shots (approximately 2 ounces). If you don’t have an espresso machine, a Moka pot can be a great alternative for producing a strong, espresso-like coffee.
Tip: The coffee beans you choose play a big role in the flavor of your cortado. Opt for high-quality, freshly ground beans for the best results.
2. Steam the Milk
Next, steam about 2 ounces of milk. You’ll want the milk to be hot, but not too frothy, as a cortado requires liquid milk rather than foam. Aim for a smooth, velvety texture, with minimal froth. If you don’t have a milk steamer, you can heat the milk in a microwave and whisk it until smooth.
Whole milk is ideal for making a cortado, as it provides a creamier, more satisfying texture. However, you can substitute with non-dairy options like oat milk, almond milk, or soy milk if you prefer.
3. Pour the Milk
Once your espresso is ready and the milk is steamed, pour the espresso into your 4-5 ounce glass cup. Gently pour the steamed milk over the espresso, aiming for a 1:1 ratio. You should see the milk and espresso layers blend together smoothly.
Tip: Some baristas suggest pouring the milk slowly to avoid breaking the espresso’s crema, though this is more of an aesthetic preference.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Your cortado is ready! Serve it in a small, clear glass to showcase the beautiful layers of espresso and milk. Sip slowly to enjoy the balanced flavors of bold espresso softened by the creamy milk.
Variations of the Cortado
Although the traditional cortado is made with equal parts espresso and steamed milk, you can experiment with different variations to suit your taste.
- Iced Cortado: If you prefer your coffee cold, you can create an iced version of the cortado by pouring the espresso and milk over ice. The milk should still be steamed for optimal texture.
- Non-Dairy Cortado: For those avoiding dairy, a cortado can be made with alternative milk like oat, almond, or soy. Oat milk is the preferred option, as it mimics the creamy texture of whole milk best.
- Flavored Cortado: Add a touch of sweetness or flavor by incorporating flavored syrups like vanilla, caramel, or hazelnut. Just be careful not to overpower the coffee’s natural flavor.
- Gibraltar: In some regions, especially in the U.S., a cortado is referred to as a “gibraltar.” The key difference is the glass used to serve the drink. A gibraltar glass is typically smaller and more rounded, but the drink is essentially the same.
Why Coffee Enthusiasts Love the Cortado
The cortado is often seen as the perfect balance of coffee and milk, offering a bold espresso flavor that’s softened but not overwhelmed by milk. It’s stronger than a latte but smoother than a macchiato, making it ideal for those who want a harmonious blend of strength and creaminess.
Benefits of Drinking a Cortado:
- Lower Calorie Count: Since it uses less milk than a latte or cappuccino, a cortado is lower in calories.
- More Espresso Flavor: The 1:1 ratio ensures that the espresso flavor stands out, making it a great option for those who love the boldness of espresso.
- Quick and Convenient: With its small size, a cortado is perfect for a quick coffee break without being too filling.
Conclusion
The cortado may be a small coffee drink, but it’s big on flavor and perfectly balanced. Whether you’re new to espresso drinks or a seasoned coffee lover, this Spanish classic is a must-try. With just two ingredients and a simple brewing process, you can easily make a cortado at home and enjoy a smooth, bold cup of coffee any time you like.
So next time you’re craving a coffee that strikes the perfect balance between espresso and milk, why not try making a cortado? With its rich history, simple preparation, and satisfying flavor, it’s a drink that deserves a place in your coffee repertoire.
