How To Steam Milk Without A Steamer And Still Make The Perfect Latte

You may think making a latte at home that matches the quality of a handcrafted drink from Starbucks is impossible without a bona fide milk steamer, but according to Jee Choe, you would be mistaken. She gives folks pointers on creating exquisite tea and coffee beverages on her website Oh, How Civilized and spoke with us about how to get hot, frothy milk without using the steam wand on a more traditional espresso machine.

If you can get it, a frother is awfully nice and works well as a stand-in. "An electric milk frother is one that I like using to make froth," Choe said. "It's a machine that can heat and froth milk at the same time." The heating factor is essential, as milk that has only been frothed typically has larger air bubbles that won't lend as fine of a texture to the beverage.

Still, this is admittedly another piece of equipment you might not have on hand. "Another method is to heat milk on the stovetop or in a microwave then pour the hot milk into a French press," Choe said. "Pump the plunger quickly until the milk doubles in volume." Just be sure you keep pumping until you see the tiny bubbles of a microfoam forming before you add it to your drink. If you don't have an electric frother or a French press, the tried-and-true technique of heating milk in a pan over the stove while vigorously whisking will get the job done — but your arm will thank you if you can utilize one of the other techniques.

Whatever method you choose to use to get steamed milk, be sure to clean your equipment afterward. Using utensils and appliances stained with old milk residue for a second round can all too easily leave you with a rather nasty drink. Like other restaurant red flags to watch out for, this is also something to be aware of when going out for coffee. "If you ever see a coffee shop with a steam wand that hasn't been wiped down after each use, don't get your espresso from there," Choe said succinctly.

She also noted that choosing the right type of milk to steam is crucial for a good froth. "Protein in the milk or non-dairy milk is what holds the foam together, which is why whole milk with more protein makes good froth," she explained. Vegans or folks with a lactose intolerance can use soy brands as an alternative here, as they contain close to as much protein as cow's milk.

You always have the option of using a milk alternative that doesn't have much protein, like oat, almond, and cashew, but don't get your hopes up for a thick foam that's ideal for stenciling art into your latte. As Choe said, "Froth milks with low protein knowing that it just won't froth as well. So for this one, it's more about the expectation."