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What Is A Cortado? A Popular Espresso Drink

Aaron James · May 11, 2023 · Leave a Comment

A cortado is a type of coffee that originated in Spain and is now popular in many countries worldwide.

It is made by combining equal parts of espresso and steamed milk to create a rich and creamy beverage perfect for those who want a strong coffee flavor without the bitterness of a traditional espresso shot.

What Is A Cortado?

The word “cortado” comes from the Spanish word “cortar,” which means “to cut.” The name refers to the espresso shot being “cut” with an equal amount of steamed milk, which helps balance the strong coffee flavor.

The result is a smooth and velvety drink that is often served in small glasses or cups. While cortados are similar to other espresso-based drinks like lattes and cappuccinos, they have a distinct flavor and texture that sets them apart.

What is a Cortado?

A cortado is a type of coffee beverage that originated in Spain and is now popular in many parts of the world.

It is made by combining espresso with a small amount of steamed milk, creating a smooth and rich flavor that is less bitter than a traditional espresso shot.

Origin

The cortado originated in Spain, where it is still a popular drink.

The word “cortado” means “cut” in Spanish, referring to the fact that the espresso shot is “cut” with a small amount of milk. In Spain, a cortado is typically served in a small glass, and is enjoyed as a mid-morning or mid-afternoon pick-me-up.

Make A Cortado At Home

Ingredients

To make a cortado, you will need:

  • Espresso
  • Steamed milk

The ratio of espresso to milk is typically 1:1, although this can vary depending on personal preference.

Some people prefer a stronger espresso flavor, while others like a bit more milk to balance out the bitterness.

Preparation

To make a cortado, follow these simple steps:

  1. Pull a shot of espresso into a small cup or glass.
  2. Steam a small amount of milk, until it is warm and frothy.
  3. Pour the steamed milk into the espresso, using a spoon to hold back the froth.
  4. Serve immediately.

To finish off this drink, it is typically served in a small glass or cup, and is often garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or cocoa powder.

Overall, a cortado is a delicious and satisfying coffee beverage that is perfect for those who want a little bit of milk with their espresso.

Whether you are in Spain or elsewhere in the world, be sure to give this tasty drink a try!

Cortado vs Other Espresso Drinks

When it comes to espresso drinks, there are many options to choose from.

Two popular choices are the latte and the cappuccino. While they may seem similar to a cortado, there are some key differences.

Cortado vs Latte

A cortado and a latte both have steamed milk, but the ratio of espresso to milk is different. A cortado has a higher ratio of espresso to milk, resulting in a stronger coffee flavor. A latte, on the other hand, has more milk, resulting in a creamier taste.

Additionally, a latte typically has a layer of foam on top, while a cortado does not.

Cortado vs Cappuccino

Like a cortado, a cappuccino has a higher ratio of espresso to milk.

However, a cappuccino also has a layer of foam on top, making it thicker than a cortado. The foam in a cappuccino is usually dry and airy, while the milk in a cortado is steamed to create a smooth texture.

Overall, a cortado is a great choice for those who want a strong coffee flavor without the added milk and foam of a latte or cappuccino. However, it ultimately comes down to personal preference.

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Last Modified May 15, 2023 Filed Under: Coffee Glossary

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