Google Doodle Celebrates Flat White Coffee’s Global Appeal
Google is celebrating the global popularity of flat white coffee with an adorable and interactive doodle today. Originating in Australia or New Zealand, the flat white consists of steamed milk poured over an espresso shot. March 11 marks a special date for flat white enthusiasts, as it was on this day in 2011 that the word was added to the Oxford English Dictionary.
Explaining the significance of the doodle, Google stated, “Today’s animated Doodle celebrates the flat white, a beloved coffee drink of steamed milk poured over a shot of espresso. Many speculate the drink was first served in Australia and New Zealand during the 1980s when the drink popped up on menus in Sydney and Auckland around the same time.”
A flat white is distinguished by its espresso shot topped with steamed milk and a thin layer of microfoam, traditionally served in a ceramic cup. The steamed milk, not frothed, leaves a smooth and velvety crema on top. Compared to cappuccinos or lattes, flat whites are favored by coffee connoisseurs for their minimal foam.
Baristas often showcase their skills by creating intricate artwork with the milk pour, a common sight in cafes across Australia and New Zealand. Over the years, coffee culture has evolved, and so has the flat white. Originally made with whole milk, it’s now common to see variations with plant-based milk, with oat milk gaining popularity.
The flat white’s journey has seen it spread worldwide, becoming a staple in many countries. Its rise reflects the ever-evolving landscape of coffee preferences and the enduring appeal of this beloved beverage.
Making a flat white coffee at home is relatively simple. Here’s a basic recipe:
Ingredients:
- Espresso (1-2 shots)
- Milk (preferably whole milk)
- Optional: Sugar or sweetener of your choice
Instructions:
- Start by brewing 1-2 shots of espresso using your preferred method. You can use an espresso machine or a Moka pot for this.
- While the espresso is brewing, froth the milk. You can use a milk frother, steam wand on an espresso machine, or even a French press.
- Pour the milk into your frothing device and heat it until it reaches around 140-150°F (60-65°C). Be careful not to scald the milk.
- Froth the milk until it becomes velvety and has a microfoam consistency. This means there should be small, fine bubbles throughout the milk rather than large foam bubbles on top.
- Once the espresso is ready, pour it into a pre-warmed cup.
- Gently pour the frothed milk over the espresso. Aim to create a smooth, glossy surface on top of the drink.
- Optionally, you can use a spoon to hold back the foam while pouring and then spoon some of the foam on top of the drink once you’ve poured most of the milk.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade flat white coffee!
Remember, the key to a good flat white is achieving the right balance between espresso and steamed milk, with a velvety microfoam texture. Experiment with the ratios and techniques until you find what works best for your taste preferences.
