Table of Contents
- The Origin of The Beverage
- The Worldwide Beloved Coffee
- Flat White Recipe: Classic & Australian
- Expected Taste of Flat White
The Origin of The Beverage
The origin of the Flat White coffee can be traced back to Australia and New Zealand, where it is considered a popular specialty coffee beverage. However, the exact birthplace of the Flat White is a topic of some debate between the two countries, as both claim to have invented it. Nevertheless, its origin can be generally attributed to the coffee culture that emerged in the 1980s in these two nations. Despite the debate, it is widely known worldwide that the Flat White originated from Australia due to the country’s name value and the larger coffee market.
We can also look into the origins of the coffee’s name and understand how it is derived. In Australia and New Zealand, coffee with milk is commonly referred to as “white coffee,” while coffee without milk is known as “black coffee.” As the Flat White has a minimal amount of froth (around 0.5cm), it earned its name ‘Flat White.’
The Worldwide Beloved Coffee
Flat White is becoming increasingly popular worldwide, especially in urban centres and areas with a thriving coffee culture. Its popularity has been steadily growing, thanks to the rise of specialty coffee shops and the global interest in exploring different coffee varieties and preparation methods.
It gained significant popularity in countries other than Australia and New Zealand, such as the United Kingdom, and parts of Europe, where it became a staple in many coffee shops and cafes. It also gained traction in North America, particularly in the United States and Canada, as more people became familiar with the drink and its unique characteristics.
Flat White Recipe: Classic & Australian
The recipe for a classic Flat White coffee that is known worldwide is relatively simple and consists of the following ingredients: a double shot of espresso and steamed milk with microfoam. This is how you make classic Flatty:
- Extract a double shot of espresso from a coffee machine, but you can adjust the number of shots based on your preference.
- Prepare your milk with the ratio of coffee to milk 1:2 and steam it to create microfoam. Microfoam is smooth, velvety textured milk with tiny bubbles, which is a key characteristic of a Flat White. The milk should be heated to around 55-60°C (130-140°F) during steaming.
- Once the milk is steamed, gently tap the milk pitcher on the bar to eliminate any large bubbles, and then pour the steamed milk over the espresso shot in the cup.
- When pouring the milk, aim to mix the coffee and the milk thoroughly. The foam should be smooth and blend with the coffee to create a creamy texture.
- Serve the Flat White immediately, while it’s still hot.
However, nowadays in Australia, most coffee shops use a single shot of espresso (around 20-22g) for their small-sized coffee served in a 6-8oz cup. As a result, the typical ratio of coffee to milk in a Flat White would be approximately 1:5 to 1:7. It’s essential to keep in mind that coffee recipes can vary depending on individual baristas and their preferences.
Expected Taste of Flat White
The taste of a classic Flat White is meant to be a harmonious balance between the boldness of espresso and the smooth creaminess of steamed milk. When prepared correctly, it should offer a rich, full-bodied coffee flavour with a velvety texture from the microfoam.
However, a Flat White in Australian coffee culture nowadays is meant to taste milder and weaker compared to cappuccino or latte. This difference in taste is due to the milk ratio used in the coffee preparation. To create a coffee of the same size, let’s say 6oz, a Flat White requires more milk (around 130ml) to be steamed compared to cappuccino or latte (100-110ml) because it should have less froth while they all have the same number of espresso shot.
As a result, its texture is smoother and creamier, with a less pronounced coffee flavour, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a gentler coffee taste. It’s important to note that the understanding and perception of what a Flat White should taste like vary between Australia and other countries, with different coffee cultures interpreting and serving the coffee in their own unique ways.
Conclusion
Dear baristas, as we conclude our exploration of the captivating Flat White, we hope you now have a deeper appreciation for this enchanting coffee delight. Embrace the harmony between robust espresso and creamy steamed milk, crafting each cup with love and dedication. Let the Flatty’s allure shine, creating a delightful coffee experience that leaves an indelible mark on every sip. Cheers to the artistry of the flat white, as you continue to enchant coffee lovers worldwide.
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