Latte in Europe: A Brief Guide
If you are a coffee lover traveling to Europe, chances are high that you will come across the term “latte” at a coffee shop. However, there might be nuances in the preparation, size, and ingredients of a latte in different European countries that you need to be aware of to order your favorite cup of coffee. In this article, we will provide you with a brief guide on latte in Europe.
What is a latte in Europe?
Latte, as you might already know, is an espresso-based drink that is made with steamed milk and foam. However, the ratio of espresso, milk, and foam might differ in different European countries. In Italy, for instance, a “latte” is simply a glass of milk. If you want to order a latte in Italy, you should use the term “caffè latte” instead. A caffè latte in Italy is made with one shot of espresso, a lot of steamed milk, and a little foam.
In France, latte is known as “café au lait,” and it is made with half coffee and half hot milk. It is usually served in a wide bowl-like cup, and it is not common to add foam to it. In Spain, a latte is called “café con leche,” and it is made with equal parts of coffee and hot milk. It is usually served in a glass, and foam is not added to it.
How is a latte prepared in Europe?
The preparation of a latte might differ in different European countries, depending on the local traditions and the equipment available. In Italy, for instance, a caffè latte is usually prepared using a moka pot, which is a stovetop coffee maker that produces strong coffee. Then, the strong coffee is mixed with a lot of steamed milk using a milk frother.
In other European countries, a latte might be made using an espresso machine. The barista pulls a shot of espresso, steams the milk, and pours it into the espresso shot. Then, the barista adds a little foam to the milk, which gives the latte its characteristic appearance.
What are the variations of a latte in Europe?
Even though a latte is usually made with one shot of espresso, you can find variations of it in different European countries. For instance, in the UK, a latte is commonly made with two shots of espresso instead of one, which makes it stronger. In Sweden, a latte is known as “café latte,” and it is made with one shot of espresso, a little steamed milk, and a lot of foam.
You can also find flavored lattes in many European countries, such as vanilla, caramel, hazelnut, and pumpkin spice latte. However, keep in mind that flavored lattes might not be as common or as popular in some European countries as they are in the US.
What is the size of a latte in Europe?
The size of a latte might differ in different European countries. In Italy, for instance, a caffè latte is usually served in a small glass of about 150ml. In other European countries, such as the UK and Sweden, a latte is usually served in a larger cup of about 300ml.
What are the ingredients of a latte in Europe?
The ingredients of a latte are usually the same in different European countries: espresso, steamed milk, and foam. However, there might be differences in the type of milk used. In some European countries, such as Sweden and Norway, oat milk is a popular choice for lattes, especially among people who are lactose intolerant or vegan.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a latte might have different meanings, preparations, sizes, and ingredients in different European countries. If you are a coffee lover traveling to Europe, it is important to be aware of these nuances to order your favorite cup of coffee. However, no matter how a latte is made and served in Europe, it is still a delicious and comforting drink that will help you enjoy your trip even more.
