How to Make a Flat White

Flat White is an espresso-based drink common in New Zealand and Australia. I'm not sure if this terminology is used elsewhere in the world, but I offer it since it is an exceptional espresso-based drink, rich and velvety in the mouth, and my personal favorite. I find that it appeals to my American friends when I make it for them, which is surprising in a way since Americans are used to espresso-based drinks that have a high proportion of milk to espresso - flat-white has a much lower ratio of milk to espresso.

In making a flat-white you are essentially making a latte, but pouring less milk to start, and then placing less of the micro-foam milk on the top, hence the word "flat" in the name. Whereas a latte has about half to one inch of micro-foam on top depending on preference, a flat-white has only about 1/4 inch of micro-foam on top. As I said before, the milk to espresso ratio in New Zealand and Australia is much less than is typical of espresso-based drinks in the United States.

Make sure you learn how to prepare the milk for your espresso-based drinks. When preparing your milk for a flat-white, blend or fold the micro-foam into the rest of the milk either with a spoon or by swirling the pitcher. The milk should be velvety and wet.

Flat-White lends itself well to making what is referred to as Latte Art. With a bit of practice you can make patterns such as leaves and hearts. But first of all just perfect making a great flat-white; it tastes as good however it looks when well made. Even without the pattern, the drink should look rich and inviting since the espresso, crema, and velvety milk all combine to make for a rich and inviting palate. It's a work of art to see, let alone drink!

Here's an answer, by the way, to a question asked by a nibbler789 at StumbleUpon.com: What is the difference between a flat white and a cappuccino?

Now that I've wetted your appetite for a flat white, make them at home. To get going you will initally need to make an investment in some appliances, so here are my recommendation for a home espresso maker and coffee grinder

If your thing is latte or cappuccino, etc., I have posted other how to make Espresso Based Drinks.