Drink with foam art

LATTE

“Latte art” is the name given to the designs that can be drawn on the surface of coffee drinks. Some of those designs can be quite intricate.

Latte art is a method of preparing coffee, particularly espresso-based drinks, where the barista creates decorative designs on the surface of the coffee by pouring steamed milk into a shot of espresso. The result is often a visually appealing pattern or image formed by the contrast between the crema of the espresso and the smooth, frothy milk.

Key points about latte art:

1. Types of Drinks: Latte art is commonly associated with lattes, cappuccinos, and other espresso-based beverages that involve steamed milk. It is often created on drinks like lattes, where a significant portion of the surface is covered with milk.
2. Steamed Milk: Achieving latte art requires skill in frothing and steaming milk to create microfoam, a finely textured, velvety foam. This microfoam is crucial for forming the patterns.
3. Pouring Technique: The barista then pours the steamed milk into the espresso in a controlled manner to create various designs. Popular designs include hearts, rosettes, tulips, and more intricate patterns.
4. Contrast: The contrast between the dark espresso and the white microfoam allows for the creation of visible and detailed designs. The quality of the espresso and the texture of the milk are important factors.
5. Creativity: Latte art allows for a great deal of creativity, and skilled baristas can produce intricate and personalized designs. Some competitions and events even focus specifically on latte art skills.

Latte art has become a distinctive and appreciated aspect of the coffee culture, adding a visual dimension to the enjoyment of espresso-based drinks. It requires practice, precision, and a good understanding of the coffee-making process.