Steam "nature" of cappuccino steamers
Is there a difference in the "nature" of the steam being produced by the steamers in the espresso machines?
I have a decent espresso machine, but apparently even a professional barista who I know can't make the foam needed for cappuccino art - so I was wondering if professional espresso machines produce a steam that is different in nature compared to home ones (at least, midrange ones).
Best Answer
There are two major differences between frothing with a home machine versus a professional machine.
1- A professional machine will have hotter and more forceful steam.
2- A home machine will often have a "froth assistor" on the wand.
The composition of the steam, though, should be the same and you should be able to create a decent approximation of the correct kind of foam for latte art with a mid-range home machine.
There's a very nice tutorial about halfway down this page on CoffeeGeek.
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What is the ratio of steamed milk to milk foam for a cappuccino?
So you have: One 2 ounce shot of espresso. 2 ounces of steamed milk(less air bubbles, more liquidy) 2 ounces of foamed milk(more air bubbles, drier)How do you steam the perfect cappuccino foam?
How to prepare milk for a cappuccinoWhen making a cappuccino the steam wand should?
Before we dive into the details, the key differences are: A traditional cappuccino has an even distribution of espresso, steamed milk, and foamed milk. A latte has more steamed milk and a light layer of foam. A cappuccino is distinctly layered, while in a latte the espresso and steamed milk are mixed together.Morning Coffee XI [ Solo Camping ] Make Coffee Latte with Bialetti Moka Pot.
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Answer 2
I'd say from my experience that most espresso machines cant really do anything good in term of milk froth. I mean, the quality is not bad, but not good either. I personally own the Aeroccino milk froth plus model and it does wonder for me.
If you want to check out for other models, there is a great list right there about the best milk frother on the market.If you plan on making latte art and stuff like that, I strongly recommend a good milk frother. Else, it is not mandatory.
Answer 3
commercial milk frothers on the built in barista machines of varying types have a far more powerful steam nozzle and its also way hotter. The home milk frothers, while ok, are far far less efficient at frothing up milk. Still can be worth getting though as we can't always get to the coffee shop!
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