what is cortado coffee

A cortado is a coffee beverage consisting of espresso mixed with a roughly equal amount of warm milk to reduce the acidity, although the exact ratios have considerable regional variation. The milk in a cortado is steamed, but not frothy and "texturized" as in many Italian coffee drinks. The cortado comes from Spain, most likely Madrid, where it is commonly served. The word cortado is the past participle of the Spanish verb cortar (to cut), in the sense of "dilute", and can refer variously to either coffee or espresso drinks throughout Spanish and Portuguese speaking countries. A cortado is typically served in a small glass and has a one-to-one ratio of milk and espresso. The milk is lightly steamed, but not to the point where much texture is created. The cortado is not meant to have a thick layer of foamed milk on top of it like a latte or cappuccino. The primary purpose of the milk in a cortado is to create a flavorful balance of sweetness when combined in equal parts with the espresso. The cortado is a classic coffee drink that originated in Spain and is now enjoyed around the world. It is said to have originated in the Basque region of Spain in the early 20th century, where it was known as "Café con Leche Pequeño" or "small coffee with milk". Today, the cortado is a popular coffee drink in many countries, particularly in Spain, Portugal, and Latin America. It has also gained a following in North America, where it is often enjoyed as a strong, yet balanced coffee alternative to traditional lattes and cappuccinos.