Google celebrates latte with an animated doodle

GOOGLE DOODLE TODAY, MARCH 11, 2024: If you woke up today to a Google Doodle with a steaming cup of coffee, you're not dreaming! It looks like the search giant is celebrating the delicious Flat White drink. But what exactly is a Flat White and why does it deserve special recognition? Let's delve into the world of this creamy coffee concoction.

A SYMPHONY OF ESPRESSO AND MILK: THE FLAT WHITE EXPLAINED

The Flat White is a coffee drink originating from Australia and New Zealand. It occupies a sweet spot between a strong espresso and a latte. This is what sets it apart:

1. Espresso baseA flat white uses a single or double shot of espresso, forming the heart of the drink and providing an intense coffee flavor.
2. steamed milkUnlike a latte, a flat white uses a smaller amount of milk, typically two parts milk to one part espresso. This creates a silky smooth texture without overpowering the flavor of the coffee.
3. Microfoam, not macrofoamThe key to a perfect Flat White lies in the texture of the milk. Unlike lattes with a thick layer of frothy foam, flat whites require microfoam: tiny bubbles incorporated throughout the milk, creating a velvety consistency.

The charm of the Flat White: why it is a coffee favorite

The popularity of Flat White is due to its perfect balance. It offers a bolder coffee flavor than latte while still being smoother and less intense than straight espresso. Here's what coffee lovers love:

1. Rich and bold flavorThe espresso base guarantees a satisfying coffee taste.
2. Soft and silky texture.Microfoam creates a luxurious mouthfeel.
3. Perfect sizeCompared to larger lattes, flat whites offer a more concentrated coffee experience in a manageable serving.
4. VersatilityEnjoy it neat or add a touch of sweetener or flavored syrup for a personalized gift.

Making your own Flat White: a recipe for success

Now that you're intrigued by the flat white, why not try making your own? Here is a basic recipe that you can easily adapt to your preferences:

Ingredients

• 1 (for a single) or 2 (for a double) shots of espresso (approximately 30-60 ml)
• 120-150 ml whole milk (skim or low fat can be used, but whole milk creates the best texture)
• Optional: Sugar, flavored syrup, cocoa powder for sprinkling

Equipment

• Espresso machine (or strong coffee made with a Moka pot)
• Milk frother (or a French press can be used for a homemade frothing method)
• milk jug
• Thermometer (optional)
• Cup

Instructions

1. Take your espresso shot(s)If you use an espresso machine, follow the manufacturer's instructions for making espresso.
2. froth the milkWhile the espresso is brewing, heat and froth the milk. Aim for a temperature between 140°F (60°C) and 150°F (65°C). If using a steam wand, create a swirling effect in the milk while introducing air to create microfoam. If using a French press, heat the milk and then quickly plunge the plunger up and down to create foam.
3. Tap and turnTap the milk jug on the counter to remove any large bubbles and then swirl the milk gently to create a smooth consistency.
4. Pour the espressoPour the espresso shots into your cup.
5. microfoam magicHold the milk jug right above the espresso and pour it in slowly. Start by pouring a thin stream of milk to create a white base.
6. Swirl and capAs the cup fills, tilt the pitcher to create a white ring in the center (optional: for latte art enthusiasts, this is your canvas!). She gently pours in the rest of the milk to create a thin layer of microfoam on top.
7. Sweeten to taste (optional)Add sugar, flavored syrup or a pinch of cocoa powder if desired.

Tips for a perfect Flat White

• Use fresh, cold milk for optimal foam.
• Watch the temperature of the milk: too hot and the milk will burn, too cold and it won't foam properly.
• Practice your pouring technique – the key is to create layers for a balanced flavor.
• Experiment with different milks: Whole milk creates the creamiest texture, but you can use skim or low-fat for a lighter option.

There you have it! With a little practice and this recipe, you can make coffee-worthy Flat Whites at home. Whether you're celebrating the Google Doodle or just fancy a delicious