Google Doodle celebrates the ‘flat white’ today, an espresso-based beverage that has sparked debates over its origins, with both Australia and New Zealand claiming to have pioneered it in the 1980s. The significance of March 11 lies in the date when ‘flat white’ was officially included in the Oxford English Dictionary in 2011.
Despite the ongoing debate, the exact origin of flat white coffee remains ambiguous, and indications suggest that it likely developed independently in both nations. Google Doodles, temporary alterations to the logo, honor various subjects globally, including holidays, significant dates, and influential figures.
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The flat white, a beloved coffee drink, consists of steamed milk poured over a shot of espresso and is believed to have emerged on menus in Sydney and Auckland during the 1980s. According to a food historian quoted by The Washington Post, the term “flat white” likely originated from Australia’s coffee naming conventions, where a standard espresso is called a “short black,” a larger version with hot water added is a “long black,” and a coffee with added milk is a “flat white.”
Creating a flat white involves blending micro-foamed milk with either a single or double shot of espresso. The micro-foam, formed by aerating steamed milk, enhances the drink’s smooth texture and creamy taste. Achieving the perfect consistency and texture requires meticulous steaming and pouring methods.
Compared to a latte, another espresso-based beverage, the flat white differs in serving size, typically presented in a 160-165ml tulip cup, much smaller than the glasses used for lattes and cappuccinos. This variance affects the coffee-to-milk ratio, influencing the flavor profile. The compact nature of flat white results in a higher coffee-to-milk ratio, providing a stronger espresso taste, while lattes dilute the espresso more due to their larger serving size.
