How to Froth Milk? A quick guide
The exotic taste of certain recipes is only justified if they are prepared using the finest ingredients, blended together well before final execution. This is not only the case with food but also beverages such as coffee. A good cup of coffee is the result of rich cocoa beans blended with frothy milk which adds to its taste. But frothing milk the right way requires a bit of work, and there are a number of ways to do it.
It is best to warm the milk between temperatures of 140 to 155 degrees Fahrenheit as it is ideal for flavour build up. There are simple ways which can be used to froth milk such as pouring it into a mason jar and shaking it continuously or mixing it rigorously with a hand whisk. One may also use a small battery operated frothing tool or an electric hand mixer to create milk foam. Other methods include using a french press or pump frother, both work the same way by pumping the milk vigorously to create a foam-like texture. Almost, all of these methods are time-consuming and don’t produce as much froth that can gracefully sit on a coffee cup.
The best way to froth milk, if you’re looking for that exact restaurant like taste is to use a steam wand. The best part is, you can also use cold milk with this method. A commercial coffee machine comes with a wand hanging by the side. Small metallic pitchers should be used for the process. They come in different sizes and should ideally be filled up to 1/3 way of the milk. To froth, turn on the steam wand and place take half cup of cold milk in the pitcher and turn on the steam wand. Hold the pitcher slightly slanted and place the wand inside just beneath the milk surface. Turn the pitcher side by side to form a whirlpool-like motion and also higher and lower while the milk froths. Do this unless big bubbles break and the formation becomes very small and the milk volume almost doubles. You should be able to see a foam-like but smooth-textured froth. At this point, the pitcher may begin to feel warm as the temperature rises due to steaming. The milk temperature should not go beyond 160 degrees Fahrenheit; otherwise, it will scald. Keeping the temperature just below 160 degrees will ensure the required texture of the foam. Then remove the pitcher and instantly pour the froth on your preferred beverage. A steam wand can create the perfect froth as it has the speed and accuracy for the task.
These days most coffee machines are equipped with a steam wand even if they’re meant to be used for small businesses. It is essential for the barista or person handling the machine to properly learn to operate a steam wand and keep track of time while working with it. Because, if used correctly, steam wands promises perfectly frothed milk for that delicious cup of coffee.
